What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering position at UNSW?
This Job is based in Australia
The Faculty of Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) seeks a collaborative Head of School for the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. Reporting to the Faculty Dean, you’ll shape the School’s vision, engage meaningfully with both internal and external stakeholders, and drive excellence in research, teaching, industry collaboration and societal impact. Your leadership in this role matters, as it will impact the next generation of engineers and addresses global challenges through cutting-edge research and education.
This is a pivotal leadership role within the faculty to foster innovation and drive the strategic direction of a school recognised for its advancements in mechanical and manufacturing engineering. To qualify for this role, candidates must demonstrate a distinguished career in academia featuring significant research publications, teaching excellence, and leadership roles in an academic institution.
At UNSW Engineering, we’re more than a collection of disciplines — we’re a community of innovators, creators, and problem‑solvers shaping a better future. Our culture is built on collaboration, curiosity, and a shared commitment to engineering solutions that matter.
The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at the UNSW opens doors to unparalleled innovation, transformative impact, and dynamic collaboration.
As the Head of School, you will influence the future of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering education, research, and industry collaboration. You will foster an inclusive and supportive culture shaping the academic environment, champion innovation, and drive impactful solutions. You will also play a pivotal role in developing staff and strengthening the overall capabilities of the school.
If you are interested in a Senior Leadership role that will shape the strategy and direction of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at UNSW, please click the “Apply Now” button. Submit your CV, a cover letter, your responses to the skills and experience (found in the position description), and a vision statement (limited to 3 pages) outlining your plans for the next 2 and 5 years. We look forward to hearing from you!
Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.
Please note that applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.
Get In Touch
Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant
E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au
Pre-Employment Checks
Aligned with UNSW’s focus on cultivating a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.
These pre-employment checks may include a combination of some of the following checks:
Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 12 April 2026
UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options, including working from home, for eligible staff. UNSW provides 26 weeks of fully paid maternity or primary carers leave upon commencement of employment (subject to eligibility). UNSW is committed to enhancing the experience of ECAs by providing a supportive and collegial work environment and a dedicated framework to deliver support services to assist their research, teaching, and career development. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
The Faculty of Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) seeks a collaborative Head of School for the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. Reporting to the Faculty Dean, you’ll shape the School’s vision, engage meaningfully with both internal and external stakeholders, and drive excellence in research, teaching, industry collaboration and societal impact. Your leadership in this role matters, as it will impact the next generation of engineers and addresses global challenges through cutting-edge research and education.
This is a pivotal leadership role within the faculty to foster innovation and drive the strategic direction of a school recognised for its advancements in mechanical and manufacturing engineering. To qualify for this role, candidates must demonstrate a distinguished career in academia featuring significant research publications, teaching excellence, and leadership roles in an academic institution.
- Salary – Senior Academic Position
- Full time
- Fixed term – 5 years with an underlying continuing (permanent) Professorial appointment
- Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia
At UNSW Engineering, we’re more than a collection of disciplines — we’re a community of innovators, creators, and problem‑solvers shaping a better future. Our culture is built on collaboration, curiosity, and a shared commitment to engineering solutions that matter.
- World‑Leading Impact: As one of the largest and most influential engineering faculties in Australia, we drive breakthroughs that transform industries, communities, and lives.
- Cutting‑Edge Research: From renewable energy and robotics to biomedical engineering and smart infrastructure, our research tackles the world’s most pressing challenges with bold, practical solutions.
- Industry Connection: We work hand‑in‑hand with global partners, giving our people access to real‑world projects, emerging technologies, and opportunities to shape the future of engineering practice.
- Innovative Learning Culture: Our environment encourages experimentation, creativity, and hands‑on learning. We empower students and staff to push boundaries and reimagine what’s possible.
- Women in Engineering: UNSW’s Women in Engineering program is a flagship initiative dedicated to increasing the participation, retention, and advancement of women in engineering. Through mentoring, leadership development, scholarships, outreach, and strong industry partnerships, we foster an environment where women can thrive and lead.
- Global Recognition: UNSW Engineering is consistently ranked among the top engineering schools worldwide, reflecting our commitment to excellence, innovation, and societal impact.
- Purpose‑Driven Careers: Whether you’re researching, teaching, or supporting our mission, you’ll be part of work that creates meaningful, lasting change — locally and globally.
The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at the UNSW opens doors to unparalleled innovation, transformative impact, and dynamic collaboration.
- Prestigious School: The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at UNSW is renowned for its excellence in education and groundbreaking research.
- Innovative Research: Drive advancements in areas such as advanced manufacturing, robotics, aerospace, sustainable design, and mechanical systems.
- Global Impact: Contribute to a school whose research and innovations have reshaped industries worldwide and are frequently ranked among the best globally.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access cutting-edge laboratories and facilities that empower world-class research and teaching.
- Collaborative Environment: Foster partnerships across academia, industry, and government to deliver impactful solutions.
- Student-Centered Excellence: The School is committed to nurturing future leaders through its innovative teaching methods and hands-on learning opportunities.
- Outstanding Reputation: Be part of a school known for producing graduates who lead and innovate in their fields globally.
As the Head of School, you will influence the future of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering education, research, and industry collaboration. You will foster an inclusive and supportive culture shaping the academic environment, champion innovation, and drive impactful solutions. You will also play a pivotal role in developing staff and strengthening the overall capabilities of the school.
- Leadership: As Head of School, you’ll lead by example, fostering a culture of excellence, resilience, and vision.
- Engagement: Connect with industry partners, government bodies, and the community to drive impactful collaborations.
- Academic Development: Strengthen our capabilities in research, teaching, and industry engagement.
- Empowering Education: We go beyond teaching; we mentor. Our dedicated academics passionately share their extensive knowledge with graduate students, shaping the future of mechanical and manufacturing engineering.
- Pioneering Research: Step into a hub of innovation where global research teams and specialised centres push the boundaries of emerging technologies — from next‑generation sustainable materials to transformative advanced manufacturing processes.
If you are interested in a Senior Leadership role that will shape the strategy and direction of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at UNSW, please click the “Apply Now” button. Submit your CV, a cover letter, your responses to the skills and experience (found in the position description), and a vision statement (limited to 3 pages) outlining your plans for the next 2 and 5 years. We look forward to hearing from you!
Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.
Please note that applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.
Get In Touch
Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant
E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au
Pre-Employment Checks
Aligned with UNSW’s focus on cultivating a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.
These pre-employment checks may include a combination of some of the following checks:
- National and International Criminal history checks
- Entitlement to work and ID checks
- Working With Children Checks
- Completion of a Gender-Based Violence Prevention Declaration
- Verification of relevant qualifications
- Verification of relevant professional membership
- Employment history and reference checks
- Financial responsibility assessments/checks.
- Medical Checks and Assessments
Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 12 April 2026
UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options, including working from home, for eligible staff. UNSW provides 26 weeks of fully paid maternity or primary carers leave upon commencement of employment (subject to eligibility). UNSW is committed to enhancing the experience of ECAs by providing a supportive and collegial work environment and a dedicated framework to deliver support services to assist their research, teaching, and career development. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.