PCN 2032
Position Overview:
Merrimack College seeks an innovative and student-centered leader to serve as the Assistant Dean of Engineering, focused on student recruitment and retention in the School of Engineering and Computational Sciences (ECS). This 12-month administrative appointment plays a pivotal role in advancing student recruitment, engagement, and retention across all ECS programs and will serve as Director of the Innovation through Engineering and Computing (iTEC) Scholars Program-a flagship initiative supporting success for students pursuing degrees in engineering, computing, and related fields.
The Assistant Dean will lead efforts to attract, support, and retain diverse and talented students, strengthen partnerships with local schools, and create meaningful engagement opportunities that connect students to faculty, peers, and career pathways. The position includes teaching one course per semester aligned with the candidate's background and expertise.
Primary Responsibilities
The Assistant Dean will lead efforts to enhance recruitment, engagement, and student success across the School of Engineering and Computational Sciences. Primary areas of responsibility include:
Leadership and Program Direction
- Provide vision and strategic oversight for the iTEC Scholars Program, including recruitment, community-building, and academic success initiatives.
- Coordinate mentoring, advising, and professional development opportunities that foster belonging and student persistence.
Recruitment and Outreach
- Develop and implement strategies to recruit prospective engineering and computing students, with a focus on building relationships with local high schools, community colleges, and STEM organizations.
- Organize outreach events, summer camps, and pre-college experiences that highlight the value and rigor of ECS programs.
- Partner with the Admissions and Marketing teams to promote ECS programs through targeted communications and campus visits.
Student Engagement and Retention
- Collaborate with faculty and staff to strengthen the student experience from first-year onboarding through graduation.
- Design and support initiatives that enhance student connection, academic success, and professional readiness.
- Work closely with the Office of Student Success to track progress, identify at-risk students, and implement proactive retention strategies.
Instruction and Collaboration
- Teach one Engineering course per semester in the candidate's area of expertise.
- Serve as a bridge between academic and student support units, aligning curricular and co-curricular opportunities to support student growth.
- Contribute to data collection, assessment, and reporting related to recruitment and retention outcomes.
Required Qualifications
- Master's degree in engineering or a closely related field.
- At least three years of experience in higher education, STEM education, or student success programming.
- Demonstrated success in student recruitment, engagement, or retention initiatives.
- Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- PhD or equivalent terminal degree in a relevant field.
- Experience developing or managing educational outreach or pre-college programs.
- Background in teaching or mentoring students in engineering, computing, or related disciplines.
Application Materials Should Include:
- Resume or CV
- Cover letter stating motivation and interest in the position, citing experience relevant to the qualifications and including experience with, and commitment to, our Catholic Augustinian mission and our values.
- Teaching Statement
- Contact information for three professional references
Work Location
This is an on-campus position as employees are essential in order to provide a fully on-campus, residential college experience for our students and the community.
This position is subject to the successful completion of a criminal background check.
