Houston Christian University equips students to lead collaborate and discover out of a deep sense of purpose and a foundation of Christian liberal arts. We are driven forward by our central confession Jesus Christ is Lord and defined by our Ten Pillars 2030 core convictions. From this foundation we guide students confidently into discerning discovery preparing them to think biblically critically and holistically about how to engage the world. We aspire to care for every student by meeting their academic spiritual and social needs with mentorship and support. At HCU we are cultivating a culture of excellence that will mold a new generation of leaders in their communities standard-setters in their professions and fruitful disciples in their churches.
HCU is set in the heart of one of the most diverse and fastest-growing cities in the nationand our growth and diversity match the dynamism of the city we call home. We continue to enroll strong freshmen classes our graduate programs have more than doubled in the past decade and we are significantly expanding our online programs as well.
The College of Science and Engineering at HCU
The vision of the College of Science and Engineering (COSE) at HCU is to be a world leader in integrating fundamental principles of science engineering and mathematics (STEM) with historic Christian values and standards to serve God and addition to current B.S. programs in Cyber Engineering and Electrical Engineering and related programs in Computer Science Cybersecurity and Information Systems HCU will expand its offerings to include Electrical Engineering Technology and Mechanical Engineering. These programs have already or will soon earn ABET accreditation. For additional information:
Summary
HCU seeks a founding Chair of Mechanical Engineering with a start date of Fall 2026. Under the direction of the Dean the Chair assists in the administration and supervision of faculty staff programs initiatives and curriculum for one or more disciplines within the College. The Chair is a visionary leader able to provide effective management of the programs resources recognize and reward excellence and promote accountability. The Chair will develop and assist with implementation of program College and University strategic plans and oversee the recruitment of faculty the establishment of appropriate labs in newly renovated space and preparation for ABET accreditation. The Chair effectively communicates with college faculty and staff as well as establishing strong working relationships with constituencies across campus. The Chair position is an additional administrative appointment that includes both reduction in course load and an additional stipend for administrative work during the summer terms.
Responsibilities:
Collaborate with Dean and College leadership to set strategic vision for Mechanical Engineering at HCU
Work collaboratively with the Dean to identify and pursue funding opportunities needed to support new Mechanical Engineering Program initiatives
Develop curriculum degree changes and catalog updates
Prepare accurate documentation for Academic Affairs Committee
Prepare documentation for ABET accreditation
Review of program assessments per SACSCOC and other accrediting agencies
Select vet and supervise adjunct faculty
Prepare course schedules and staffing
Directly observe classroom instruction
Provide written evaluation of all full-time and adjunct faculty members teaching within this department on a regular basis with the goal of continuous improvement in teaching and learning
Develop and oversee department syllabi scope and sequence of courses and course content including curricular revisions
Review student course evaluations with faculty each semester
Ensure timely submission of student grades from department faculty
Actively participate in scholarly endeavors
Hold regular departmental meetings with faculty in department
Hear student concerns past the instructor level (per university grievance policy)
Attend and participate in campus and College meetings
Pursue the integration of faith-and-learning in and out of the classroom
Ability to represent college enthusiastically and professionally
Ability to work collegially with faculty and staff across several departments and divisions
Be available for some night and weekend programming beyond HCUs standard 8am5pm weekday office hours
Work to further the Universitys mission
Must be able to completely affirm uphold and live within the Preamble of Houston Christian University and the Ten Pillars Core Convictions
Exhibit an active Christian faith with local church membership and involvement
Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
PhD in Mechanical Engineering
Higher education teaching experience at the undergraduate level
Leadership experience in higher education preferred
Additional Information
Houston Christian University is an independent private Christian liberal arts institution with a diverse student body. It has access to all the cultural advantages of one of the largest metropolitan centers in the country. For more information about the University visit .
The University is in the process of implementing its Ten Pillars vision ( and anticipates significant growth in student enrollment and university programs. The successful candidate will also be able to articulate a vision for the role of his or her discipline at HCU that is supportive of the Ten Pillars vision statement.
Houston Christian University is committed to maintaining a teaching faculty and staff who share an active Christian faith. The Preamble to the By-Laws of the University sets forth a statement of belief which each University employee is expected to support and personify. Your submittal of an application for employment indicates your acceptance and affirmation of these statements.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties responsibilities and requirements of personnel.
**Disclaimer**
Background checks are performed on every new hire. If your application is selected to continue with the interviewing process you will be required to submit a Background Check form. If you decline your application may be denied. By proceeding with the online application you understand and accept this process.
Required Experience:
IC
HCU is a Christian university in Texas with classes online and our Houston colleges. We offer 130 degrees - more than most Christian universities in Houston Texas.