What are the responsibilities and job description for the Professor of Practice in Engineering, Physics and Engineering Department position at Washington and Lee University?
Washington and Lee University: Physics and Engineering Department
Location
Open Date
Sep 17, 2026
Description
The Department of Physics and Engineering at Washington and Lee University invites applications for a professor of practice in engineering. This new non-tenure track, renewable position will begin in July 2027 and was created to support the pursuit of ABET accreditation for our long-standing and thriving engineering program. Candidates should be prepared to teach the engineering design process and project management fundamentals across the undergraduate curriculum from first-year introductory design classes to the year-long capstone design sequence, manage the placement of rising seniors onto capstone projects, and lead the development of a consistent program-wide approach to teaching the engineering design process. Candidates should be motivated to pursue and maintain industry and community-based partnerships that result in capstone projects, community-based class projects, internships, and externships.
To achieve our mission as a liberal arts university, we strive to foster a welcoming campus community that recognizes the value of all persons. Our department is committed to preparing our students for engaged citizenship by creating a positive learning and working environment for all through open and substantive dialogue. We welcome applications from candidates that would contribute to the University’s mission and strategic plan.
The expected salary for this position is between $110,000 and $120,000. Offers are based on factors such as relevant education, experience, tenure status, internal equity, and market and organizational considerations.
Washington and Lee University offers a generous and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of employees and their families, as well as substantial support for faculty development through research funding, a strong culture of mentorship, and a pre-tenure leave program. To learn more about working at W&L, employee benefits, and life in the Shenandoah Valley, visit jobs.wlu.edu.
Qualifications
A master's degree in engineering or related field or reasonable equivalent and ten years of experience in managing engineering design within industry are required. A current professional license in engineering is strongly preferred. Undergraduate teaching or mentorship experience is highly desirable.
Application Instructions
Review of applicants will begin November 15, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Applicants should submit the following to Interfolio https://apply.interfolio.com/193723:
- A letter of application
- Current CV
- Statement of teaching philosophy
- Description of experience in managing design within industry and how that experience will translate into teaching and mentoring undergraduate students
- Contact information for three confidential letters of recommendation
Application Process
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Washington and Lee is an Equal Opportunity Employer seeking candidates committed to high standards of scholarship, performance, professionalism, and to a welcoming campus community. Job description requirements are representative, but not all‐inclusive of the knowledge, skill, and abilities needed to successfully perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Benefits:
Maternity & Paternity LeaveSalary : $110,000 - $120,000