California State University
Assistant Professor - Tenure Track – Mechatronics - AY 26/27
California State University, San Luis Obispo, California, us, 93403
Overview
Mechanical Engineering Assistant Professor - Tenure Track – Mechatronics - AY 26/27 The Mechanical Engineering Department in the College of Engineering at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California (Cal Poly) invites applications for two open, full-time, academic year, tenure-track faculty positions at the Assistant Professor rank beginning Fall 2026. Cal Poly emphasizes a "Learn by Doing" philosophy and a teacher-scholar model. The successful candidate will teach undergraduate and master’s level courses, support and expand curricular development in mechatronics, system dynamics, and controls; pursue research with undergraduate and master’s students; and provide service to the department, the university, and the community. Cal Poly focuses on hardware-software interaction and electro-mechanical systems. This is an opportunity for candidates passionate about undergraduate education within a teaching-focused institution that values scholarship and service. Salary is commensurate with education and experience. Qualified candidates with industry experience are encouraged to apply. Anticipated hiring range: $106,000 – $117,000 per year. About the Department
Cal Poly is ranked as the best public master’s university in the western U.S. The Mechanical Engineering undergraduate program is highly ranked, with a laboratory-intensive, hands-on curriculum. Tenured, tenure-track, and lecturer/adjunct faculty are dedicated to teaching, applied research, student interaction, and advising student clubs. The department values teaching excellence, small class sizes, and hands-on activities, supported by state-of-the-art machine shop facilities. Cal Poly and the College of Engineering support collaborative research across campus, including opportunities with the Noyce School of Applied Computing. For more information about the department, visit https://me.calpoly.edu/. The starting date for this position is September 2026. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT
This position is open to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Cal Poly provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment. We comply with applicable civil rights laws and CSU’s Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory practices and harassment in all university programs, policies, and practices. Cal Poly is a diverse community committed to inclusivity, open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. We encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives and prioritize inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and supportive programs. Benefits information is available at
https://afd.calpoly.edu/hr/benefits/. Cal Poly provides family-friendly benefits including parental leave, educational fee waivers, childcare pre-tax benefits, and an on-campus children’s center. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
An earned doctorate (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering in the general area of mechatronics or a closely related field from an accredited institution or international equivalent is required. Candidates nearing completion of the doctorate (ABD) will be considered but must provide proof that the doctorate was awarded prior to or by the start of the appointment. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching, effective communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work with diverse students, staff, and faculty. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to develop an externally funded, applied research program involving undergraduate and graduate students, and partnerships with key stakeholders. A commitment to hands-on, student-centered learning and teaching and the ability to work in multidisciplinary settings are required. Excellent written and oral communication skills are required. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Preference will be given to candidates with university-level teaching and research experience, laboratory-based instruction experience, and/or industry experience. Experience working with diverse populations and fostering an inclusive environment is preferred. Additional qualifications may include: Experience with embedded systems. Excellence in university-level teaching and research (time since degree considered). Experience with multiple coding languages, including assembly, C/C++, and Python. Broad experience in mechanical engineering. Experience with laboratory-based instruction. Experience mentoring undergraduates on research activities. Experience as a practicing engineer in industry. SPECIAL CONDITIONS
The person holding this position is considered a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and must comply with CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment. After a conditional offer, a background check (including criminal records) must be completed satisfactorily before employment. A failed background check may result in withdrawal of the offer. Cal Poly may perform an individualized assessment when considering criminal history for a position. Current employees offered on-campus positions will be required to undergo a background check where required by law or designated as sensitive. Faculty seeking permanent residency are responsible for retaining an immigration attorney. Cal Poly is smoke and tobacco-free. The CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy applies; tenure-line faculty should establish an on-campus presence to fulfill responsibilities. HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please provide: (1) cover letter detailing qualifications and interest; (2) current CV; (3) statement of teaching philosophy; (4) statement of goals and plans for research; (5) unofficial transcripts; (6) three professional references with contact information. Finalists will be asked to provide three letters of reference. Official transcripts are required prior to appointment for final consideration. Cal Poly’s ability to sponsor employment-based visas depends on priorities and regulations. Visa sponsorship is not guaranteed. For full consideration, apply by the Review Begin Date, October 13, 2025. Applications received after this date may be considered. For questions, contact John Chen, Acting Chairperson of Mechanical Engineering, at jchen24@calpoly.edu.
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Mechanical Engineering Assistant Professor - Tenure Track – Mechatronics - AY 26/27 The Mechanical Engineering Department in the College of Engineering at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California (Cal Poly) invites applications for two open, full-time, academic year, tenure-track faculty positions at the Assistant Professor rank beginning Fall 2026. Cal Poly emphasizes a "Learn by Doing" philosophy and a teacher-scholar model. The successful candidate will teach undergraduate and master’s level courses, support and expand curricular development in mechatronics, system dynamics, and controls; pursue research with undergraduate and master’s students; and provide service to the department, the university, and the community. Cal Poly focuses on hardware-software interaction and electro-mechanical systems. This is an opportunity for candidates passionate about undergraduate education within a teaching-focused institution that values scholarship and service. Salary is commensurate with education and experience. Qualified candidates with industry experience are encouraged to apply. Anticipated hiring range: $106,000 – $117,000 per year. About the Department
Cal Poly is ranked as the best public master’s university in the western U.S. The Mechanical Engineering undergraduate program is highly ranked, with a laboratory-intensive, hands-on curriculum. Tenured, tenure-track, and lecturer/adjunct faculty are dedicated to teaching, applied research, student interaction, and advising student clubs. The department values teaching excellence, small class sizes, and hands-on activities, supported by state-of-the-art machine shop facilities. Cal Poly and the College of Engineering support collaborative research across campus, including opportunities with the Noyce School of Applied Computing. For more information about the department, visit https://me.calpoly.edu/. The starting date for this position is September 2026. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT
This position is open to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Cal Poly provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment. We comply with applicable civil rights laws and CSU’s Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory practices and harassment in all university programs, policies, and practices. Cal Poly is a diverse community committed to inclusivity, open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. We encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives and prioritize inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and supportive programs. Benefits information is available at
https://afd.calpoly.edu/hr/benefits/. Cal Poly provides family-friendly benefits including parental leave, educational fee waivers, childcare pre-tax benefits, and an on-campus children’s center. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
An earned doctorate (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering in the general area of mechatronics or a closely related field from an accredited institution or international equivalent is required. Candidates nearing completion of the doctorate (ABD) will be considered but must provide proof that the doctorate was awarded prior to or by the start of the appointment. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching, effective communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work with diverse students, staff, and faculty. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to develop an externally funded, applied research program involving undergraduate and graduate students, and partnerships with key stakeholders. A commitment to hands-on, student-centered learning and teaching and the ability to work in multidisciplinary settings are required. Excellent written and oral communication skills are required. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Preference will be given to candidates with university-level teaching and research experience, laboratory-based instruction experience, and/or industry experience. Experience working with diverse populations and fostering an inclusive environment is preferred. Additional qualifications may include: Experience with embedded systems. Excellence in university-level teaching and research (time since degree considered). Experience with multiple coding languages, including assembly, C/C++, and Python. Broad experience in mechanical engineering. Experience with laboratory-based instruction. Experience mentoring undergraduates on research activities. Experience as a practicing engineer in industry. SPECIAL CONDITIONS
The person holding this position is considered a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and must comply with CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment. After a conditional offer, a background check (including criminal records) must be completed satisfactorily before employment. A failed background check may result in withdrawal of the offer. Cal Poly may perform an individualized assessment when considering criminal history for a position. Current employees offered on-campus positions will be required to undergo a background check where required by law or designated as sensitive. Faculty seeking permanent residency are responsible for retaining an immigration attorney. Cal Poly is smoke and tobacco-free. The CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy applies; tenure-line faculty should establish an on-campus presence to fulfill responsibilities. HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please provide: (1) cover letter detailing qualifications and interest; (2) current CV; (3) statement of teaching philosophy; (4) statement of goals and plans for research; (5) unofficial transcripts; (6) three professional references with contact information. Finalists will be asked to provide three letters of reference. Official transcripts are required prior to appointment for final consideration. Cal Poly’s ability to sponsor employment-based visas depends on priorities and regulations. Visa sponsorship is not guaranteed. For full consideration, apply by the Review Begin Date, October 13, 2025. Applications received after this date may be considered. For questions, contact John Chen, Acting Chairperson of Mechanical Engineering, at jchen24@calpoly.edu.
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