Assistant Professor Mechanical Engineering

Cleveland State University
Assistant Professor

Mechanical Engineering

Job Summary:

The Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Washkewicz College of Engineering at Cleveland State University invite applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position beginning August 17, 2026.

Preferred expertise and interest in two broad areas: 1. Robotics and Controls, with applications including but not limited to smart/digital manufacturing; and 2. Human-Machine Systems and Biomechanics. Although we prefer candidates to have research concentrations as noted above, we will consider applicants who demonstrate a track record of interdisciplinary research involving the above areas. Candidates are expected to develop and grow an externally funded research program and teach courses to meet the needs of the undergraduate and graduate curriculum. The candidate is also expected to participate in service activities through committees, student organization advising and professional activities outside the University.

Cleveland is home to an ever-growing job market, vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums and art institutions, and a thriving culinary scene. From Fortune 500 companies and prestigious healthcare institutions to booming manufacturing companies, Cleveland offers a robust job market for professionals looking to grow in their careers. For more information about Cleveland and Northeast Ohio, see .

The Mechanical Engineering Department provides a rigorous education in the principles of mechanical engineering, supplemented by practical hands-on experience and communication skills to transform students into well-rounded and competent engineers. The department offers doctoral, master’s and an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree, with currently 385 undergraduate students and 125 graduate students. Our faculty are recipients of prestigious national awards, including 2 NSF CAREER and 2 NIH R01 awards in the last five years. As of Fall 2025, the department’s active research portfolio exceeded $18 million in external awards. Current areas of research include manufacturing, modeling and simulation of energy systems, turbomachinery rotordynamics, human-machine systems, robotics, and control systems.

The university is well-known for its interdisciplinary programs, enjoying partnerships with prominent industrial corporations, the Cleveland Clinic and the NASA Glenn Research Center.

CSU aspires to be a national leader in social and economic mobility. We will be a great place to learn and work. CSU is striving to be a nationally recognized and student focused public research institution that provides accessible, affordable, and Engaged Learning opportunities for all.

Minimum Qualifications:

• An undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering and an earned doctoral degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline. Appropriate terminal degree completed by July 1, 2026. Persons who are ABD will be hired at the rank of Instructor.

Preferred Qualifications:

• BSc degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program;
• Track record of scholarly work and sponsored research;
• Experience teaching mechanical engineering courses at the graduate and/or undergraduate levels;
• Evidence of interdisciplinary research experience including robotics, controls, human-machine systems or biomechanics.;
• Demonstrate potential for teaching excellence and the highest standards of scholarship and professional activity in the research areas of interest.

Applicant Instructions:
Applications will only be accepted online at . Mailed or emailed application materials will not be accepted. Preference will be given to applications received by January 14, 2026. All inquiries about the position should be directed to the Search Committee Chair, Hanz Richter at .
 

List of documents applicant is required to submit:
 

• Cover Letter indicating your specialty area and qualifications
• Curriculum Vitae
• Teaching Statement
• Research Statement
• Contact information for three references – references will be contacted via email and asked to upload a letter of support on your behalf

CSU is an urban university with more than 14,000 students located in the heart of Cleveland, OH. According to the Brookings Institution, CSU is No. 18 in the U.S. among public universities that fulfill a critical dual mission: providing upward mobility and conducting impactful research. CSU is the only Ohio university in the top tier of the Brookings list. For additional information about the city of Cleveland, see .
 

Hire is contingent upon the maintenance of existing levels of funding from the State of Ohio. Offer of employment is contingent on satisfactory completion of the University’s verification of credentials (including evidence of a Ph.D.) and other information required by law and/or University policies or practices, including but not limited to a criminal background check.
 

It is the policy of Cleveland State University to provide equal opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran, or genetic information.