Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering in Edinburgh
Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering

Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Full-Time 72000 - 108000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, shaping strategy and culture.
  • Company: UNSW Engineering, a top-ranked faculty known for innovation and impact.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work options, and generous parental leave.
  • Why this job: Influence the future of engineering education and drive meaningful change.
  • Qualifications: Distinguished academic career with research and teaching excellence.
  • Other info: Join a collaborative community dedicated to solving global challenges.

The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 ÂŁ per year.

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 internal and external stakeholders, and drive excellence in research, teaching, industry collaboration and societal impact. Your leadership will impact the next generation of engineers and address 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.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, shaping strategy, culture, and performance.
  • Engage with internal and external stakeholders to advance research, teaching, industry collaboration and societal impact.
  • Foster innovation and drive the strategic direction of the school.
  • Develop staff and strengthen the overall capabilities of the school.

About The Faculty Of Engineering

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.
  • 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.

About The School Of Mechanical And Manufacturing Engineering

The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at UNSW opens doors to unparalleled innovation, transformative impact, and dynamic collaboration.

  • Prestigious School: Renowned for excellence in education and groundbreaking research.
  • Innovative Research: Advancements in areas such as advanced manufacturing, robotics, aerospace, sustainable design, and mechanical systems.
  • Global Impact: 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: Nurturing future leaders through innovative teaching methods and hands-on learning.
  • Outstanding Reputation: Be part of a school known for producing graduates who lead and innovate globally.

Why Your Role Matters

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, champion innovation, and drive impactful solutions. You will also play a pivotal role in developing staff and strengthening the school’s overall capabilities.

  • Leadership: Lead by example, fostering a culture of excellence, resilience, and vision.
  • Engagement: Connect with industry partners, government bodies, and the community to drive collaborations.
  • Academic Development: Strengthen capabilities in research, teaching, and industry engagement.
  • Empowering Education: Mentor academics who share extensive knowledge with graduate students, shaping the future of mechanical and manufacturing engineering.
  • Pioneering Research: Collaborate with global research teams and centres pushing the boundaries of emerging technologies.

How To Apply

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, 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 via Applications should not be sent to the contact below.

Pre-Employment Checks

Aligned with UNSW’s focus on safety, ethical conduct, and integrity, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role. Checks may include some of the following:

  • National and International Criminal history checks
  • Entitlement to work and ID checks
  • Working With Children Checks
  • 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

Compliance with the necessary combination of these checks is a condition of employment at UNSW.

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 12 April 2026

UNSW is committed to equity and inclusion. We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and those with caring and family responsibilities. We provide workplace adjustments for people with disability and flexible work options where eligible. We offer 26 weeks of fully paid maternity or primary carers leave upon commencement of employment (subject to eligibility). The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering in Edinburgh employer: UNSW

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the field of engineering education, offering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our staff to drive meaningful change. Our commitment to professional development, coupled with state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on diversity and inclusion, ensures that employees can thrive while making a global impact through cutting-edge research and teaching. Join us in shaping the future of engineering and be part of a community dedicated to excellence and societal advancement.
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Contact Detail:

UNSW Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering in Edinburgh

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in academia and industry. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to chat about your aspirations. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your leadership skills! Prepare examples of how you've driven change or innovation in your previous roles. Be ready to discuss how you can shape the future of the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at UNSW.

✨Tip Number 3

Engage with the community! Get involved in discussions around engineering challenges and solutions. This not only shows your passion but also helps you connect with potential collaborators and stakeholders.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to tailor your CV and cover letter to stand out.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering in Edinburgh

Leadership
Strategic Planning
Stakeholder Engagement
Research Excellence
Teaching Excellence
Industry Collaboration
Innovation Management
Academic Development
Mentoring
Collaboration
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Cultural Competence
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your leadership experience and vision for the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. Tailor it to reflect how you can drive innovation and collaboration within the faculty.

Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your CV, don’t just list your roles—show us what you've accomplished! Include significant research publications, teaching accolades, and any leadership positions that demonstrate your impact in academia.

Respond Thoughtfully to Skills and Experience: Take the time to carefully respond to the skills and experience section in the position description. Use specific examples from your career that align with the responsibilities of the Head of School role to make your application stand out.

Submit Your Application Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our community at UNSW!

How to prepare for a job interview at UNSW

✨Know Your Vision

As a candidate for the Head of School, it's crucial to articulate your vision for the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. Prepare a clear and compelling narrative about how you plan to shape the school's strategy and culture, focusing on innovation and collaboration.

✨Engage with Stakeholders

Demonstrate your ability to engage with both internal and external stakeholders. Research key industry partners and government bodies relevant to UNSW's mission, and be ready to discuss how you would foster these relationships to enhance research and teaching.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Style

Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy and how it aligns with UNSW's values. Share specific examples from your past roles that highlight your ability to mentor staff, drive excellence, and create an inclusive environment that empowers others.

✨Highlight Your Research Impact

Given the emphasis on cutting-edge research, be ready to talk about your significant research publications and their societal impact. Discuss how your work has addressed global challenges and how you envision continuing this at UNSW.

Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering in Edinburgh
UNSW
Location: Edinburgh

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  • Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering in Edinburgh

    Edinburgh
    Full-Time
    72000 - 108000 ÂŁ / year (est.)
  • U

    UNSW

    1000-5000
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