layiq

/la·yiq/adjective

worthy; deserving; fitting; suitable.

A role, opportunity, or path that merits attention, time, and pursuit.

Professor of the Practice & Director - Engineering Design Program at Northeastern University | LAYIQ

Education & Experience: PhD in engineering or a closely related field required
Demonstrated experience designing, launching, or significantly reforming engineering education programs, with a focus on experiential, interdisciplinary, or AI-integrated learning models
Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in academic program leadership, industry partnership management, or workforce development within an engineering or technical higher education setting
Experience in a co-op-based or experiential learning environment strongly preferred
Record of scholarly or applied work in engineering education, curriculum innovation, or related fields is a plus
Technical Knowledge & Skills: Deep understanding of engineering education pedagogy, competency frameworks, and industry workforce trends, with a particular emphasis on next-generation and AI-integrated curriculum design
Familiarity with the application of AI tools — including machine learning, simulation, and data analysis — in engineering practice and education
Broad knowledge across multidisciplinary engineering domains including mechanical, thermal, electrical, and data systems, sufficient to credibly lead a cross-disciplinary program
Experience with learning management systems, co-op or experiential learning platforms, and CRM systems
Understanding of industry accreditation standards relevant to undergraduate engineering programs (e.g., ABET)
Leadership & Management: Proven track record of successful program development and revenue generation within a self-supporting business model
Demonstrated ability to build and sustain partnerships with engineering firms, technology companies, and industry organizations, spanning project sponsorship, curriculum co-development, and deep talent pipeline integration
Experience leading interdisciplinary teams and managing complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives
Track record of innovation in program delivery, industry engagement, and business model development
Budget management experience and financial acumen
Established relationships with engineering and technology organizations in the Bay Area or comparable markets
Ability to develop and lead strategic initiatives and follow through to completion; excellent management, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills
A high degree of self-motivation and self-direction, coupled with a proven track record of collaborative work and demonstrated success in partnership development and relationship management
Ability to work in a matrixed environment to deliver against shared goals
Effective communicator and collaborator with the ability to motivate others toward shared goals
Ability to track activity and report results; ability to collaborate with faculty and staff across programs, schools, colleges, and departments including Deans, Associate Deans, Program Directors, and other academic administrators
Organizational tact and diplomacy; superb interpersonal skills required to develop close relationships with external partners and key influencers across the university and the broader Bay Area community
Demonstrated ability to build internal and external collaborations, finding solutions benefiting all parties, and focusing on long-term success over short-term results; ability to serve as an ambassador for the university in the region
Demonstrated commitment to belonging efforts and building an inclusive engineering pipeline
Flexibility for travel within the region and as needed

Strategic Planning & Innovative Program Development (25%)
Develop and execute annual strategic plans for the BS in Engineering Design program that align with Northeastern's mission and respond to engineering workforce trends. Champion and operationalize the program's innovative educational model — integrating AI-native instruction, human-centered design, and interdisciplinary project-based learning across all four years of the curriculum. Oversee the program launch in Fall 2027 and implement long-term plans to ensure growth, continuous curriculum innovation, and academic excellence. Identify and pursue opportunities to expand the program's reach and reputation within the Bay Area and beyond. Work closely with faculty to embed AI tools, real-world industry projects, and entrepreneurial frameworks throughout the student experience.
Industry Partnership Development & Business Growth ( 25%)
Establish and maintain a structured portfolio of industry partnerships at three levels of engagement: (1) Project and Problem Sponsors, who contribute real-world design challenges for student teams and participate in project reviews and mentorship; (2) Curriculum Partners, who co-develop course content, embed tools and case studies, and help shape the technical and professional competencies built into the degree; and (3) Integrated Partners, who employ students during co-ops, co-fund faculty roles, and may co-locate on the Oakland campus to build a sustained talent pipeline. Generate business contracts totaling established annual revenue goals through direct outreach and partnership development. Coordinate communication and provide consultation to stakeholders across engineering, technology, and business sectors.
Co-op & Experiential Learning Oversight (20%)
Oversee the development and management of co-op placements for two required co-ops per student, typically at the end of Year 2 and Year 4. Ensure all students have access to meaningful, industry-embedded experiences that align with program competencies and the goal of producing day-one-ready engineers. Develop processes for co-op employer onboarding, student preparation, and post-placement evaluation. Monitor co-op quality and employer satisfaction to maintain program standards and student outcomes.
Program Operations & Supervision (15%)
Direct day-to-day operations of the Engineering Design program, ensuring policies, procedures, and academic standards are upheld. Oversee scheduling, enrollment, and delivery of program components, achieving enrollment targets and maintaining quality. Analyze enrollment and performance data quarterly to inform program adjustments and resource allocation. Implement and maintain technology systems that support efficient program operations, industry project management, and student tracking.
Financial Management & Resource Development (10%)
Achieve annual revenue targets within a self-supporting business model. Develop and manage the annual operating budget, oversee program expenditures, and maintain fiscal responsibility achieving break-even or surplus. Identify and pursue external funding opportunities including grants, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic support. Prepare and submit all required budget and performance reports on schedule. Maintain accurate financial tracking and reporting systems.
Marketing, Outreach & Team Leadership (5%)
Lead marketing efforts to promote the program to prospective students, industry partners, and the broader Bay Area engineering community, positioning it as a national model for innovative engineering education. Supervise, evaluate, and develop direct reports, conducting annual performance reviews and providing ongoing coaching. Recruit, train, and retain qualified instructors and industry-based faculty to deliver high-quality educational programming. Lead interdisciplinary planning committees and working groups to achieve collaborative program development goals. Foster a team culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Position Type
Academic
Additional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Pay Range: Professor of the Practice: $127,000.00 - $250,000.00 | Professor of the Practice: $127,000.00 - $250,000.00

Professor of the Practice & Director - Engineering Design Program

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