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Job Description
Western Washington University (WWU) invites applications from candidates for a full-time, tenure-track, faculty position in Industrial Design (ID). The successful candidate is expected to be appointed as an assistant professor with an anticipated start date of September 16, 2023. We seek individuals with teaching and research interests in any field relevant to industrial design or product design.
The Industrial Design program, as one of the four programs within the Engineering and Design Department, is a NASAD accredited undergraduate degree. As stated in the Department’s Mission, the programs in the Engineering and Design Department have a strong commitment to teaching and scholarship that develops industry-ready graduates through a combination of creative problem-solving, skills development, and experiential learning. Programs are all very hands-on, with students involved across the curricula with experiential and student-centered teaching and learning at the heart of the teaching enterprise. Nearly all courses have a significant laboratory component to prepare students with the modern tools and processes used in industry.
The Department and the College of Sciences and Engineering are committed to creating equitable and inclusive learning and working environments for their students, faculty, and staff. Several faculty-led initiatives and committees focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the classroom and beyond. Student clubs such as the Society of Women Engineers, Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS), and Out in Science, are also vital to advancing inclusion within the College.
The College of Sciences and Engineering and the Engineering and Design Department support Western’s mission, which states that together with our students, staff, and faculty, we are committed to making a positive impact in the state and the world with a shared focus on academic excellence and inclusive achievement. We encourage applications from women, people of color, people with disabilities, veterans, and other candidates from underrepresented backgrounds and with diverse experiences interested in this opportunity.
The position requires a strong commitment to teaching and scholarship that supports the Department’s Mission. Teaching responsibilities will include service courses for industrial design, as well as advanced studio courses. Scholarship responsibilities will include developing and maintaining a relevant scholarship program that preferably involves undergraduate researchers and partnerships with industry. It is expected that the person fulfills working, teaching, and mentoring responsibilities in ways that provide equitable and inclusive environments for all students, faculty, and staff. This position offers a unique and exciting opportunity to be part of the growth and development of the program, which will include the development of new curriculum, research areas, and laboratory facilities.
Required Qualifications
A master’s degree or PhD in industrial design or a closely related discipline, received from an accredited institution at the time of application or ABD at the time of application. If ABD, all degree requirements must be completed by June 15th of the first year of employment (e.g., for a September 2023 start date, all degree requirements must be completed by June 15, 2024).
Significant, recent, and relevant industry-based professional design experience.
Commitment to and evidence of the ability to teach courses in the Industrial Design program.
Teaching and scholarship interests that are closely aligned with the Mission of the Department.
Demonstrated commitment to cultivating learning environments that are equitable and inclusive of students with diverse social identities and backgrounds.
Commitment and ability to maintain a relevant program of scholarly activity.
Excellent interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbal.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated expertise in contemporary Product and Industrial Design approaches, a strong professional portfolio, user centered design, and a commitment to ethical and inclusive design practices.
Successful prior teaching experience.
Experience in conducting a scholarly program with undergraduate students.
A combination of capabilities and expertise focused on product development, interdisciplinary professional work, project planning, entrepreneurial experience, and design management skills.
Demonstrated expertise in the areas of design research, sustainable design, user re-search, UX design, human factors, CMF design, materials, and creative ideation.
Evidence of technical proficiency and experience in design applications (Rhinoceros, SolidWorks, Keyshot, Photoshop, Illustrator), traditional modelmaking, digital rendering, rapid prototyping, and knowledge of current manufacturing technologies.
The successful candidate is expected to be appointed as an assistant professor, with an anticipated starting salary of $80,000-$83,000. Relocation assistance may be available per University guidelines. Salary and start-up funds are to be determined upon acceptance of the position.
Closing Date Notes
Review of applications will begin November 15, 2022 and will continue until the position is filled.
