Professor of Practice

Position

Title: Professor of Practice

Employee Classification: LC Faculty NT 9m

College/Division: Engineering College

Department: 360900-MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico, United States

Job Type: Full-time 9-month Faculty

Compensation: Commensurate with qualifications

Exempt Status: Exempt

Standard

Work Schedule:

Standard (M-F, 8-5)

Contingent Upon Funding: Yes

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: Not a bargaining unit position

Closing Date: Dec 19 2025 - 23:55 MST

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at New Mexico State University invites applications for a Professor of Practice. The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching aerospace undergraduate and/or graduate courses, including orbital mechanics, flight dynamics and controls, aerospace systems engineering. The ideal candidate will create a welcoming and inclusive learning environment for all students and actively engage in mentorship and advising.

The Professor of Practice position brings real‑world industry expertise to the classroom, providing students with invaluable insights and skills. Professors may serve as academic advisors, participate in accreditation efforts, faculty meetings, committees, and scholarly teaching activities.

• Teach A E 362 Orbital Mechanics (3 credits), A E 364 Flight Dynamics and Controls (3 credits), A E 424 Aerospace Systems Engineering (3 credits) each fall and spring semester; other courses as determined in consultation with the Department Head.
• Engage in service within and outside the university.
• Maintain professional credentials.
• Participate in departmental outcome assessment and accreditation efforts.
• Contribute to faculty meetings and committees.
• Engage in scholarly teaching and learning activities.

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering or closely related field; or MS in Aerospace Engineering with a minimum of 10 years of relevant industry experience.
• Professional teaching and service responsibilities heavier than tenured and tenure‑track faculty.
• Experience developing lesson plans, course assessment, test structures, and monitoring student progress.
• Ability to facilitate discussions and activities in adherence to curriculum.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Teaching interests and philosophy statement (2 pages max)
• Official transcripts
• Names and contact information of at least three professional references

Department Contact:
Young Lee, 575‑646‑7457, younglee

• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office environment.
• Physical Effort:
  Light, up to two hours per day; handling objects up to 10 pounds.
• No significant physical risk.

New Mexico State University does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, military service, or other non‑merit factor.