Pre-Engineering/Physics Faculty and Digital Manufacturing Lab Director

Position Overview:
Salish Kootenai College (SKC) seeks a dynamic and innovative Pre-Engineering/Physics Faculty and Lab Director to lead the academic and operational activities of the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Lab (AMIL) and the adjacent Physics and Pre-Engineering Lab. The successful candidate will have a strong background in physics, pre-engineering, and digital manufacturing technologies, with a commitment to supporting Indigenous students and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Teaching: Deliver high-quality instruction in physics and pre-engineering courses. Develop and implement curriculum that integrates hands-on learning and real-world applications.

• Lab Management: Oversee the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Lab, ensuring the effective use of equipment, including CNC machines, 3D printers, laser printers, and other digital manufacturing technologies.

• Student Engagement: Support and mentor students in their academic and project-based learning, including the Indigenous Rocket Program, ballooning program in collaboration with the Montana Space Grant Consortium, and participation in student competitions.

• Outreach and Community Engagement: Coordinate campus tours and outreach efforts to promote SKC's programs, including partnerships with local schools and community organizations.

• Credential Development: Collaborate with regional partners to develop and evolve credentialing programs that align with community needs, including optical technician training and building trades initiatives.

• Advising: Advise students in their academic pathways, including those working towards primary or secondary credentials in the Pre-Engineering and Physics department. Foster a supportive environment that encourages student engagement and success, providing guidance on course selection, career opportunities, and academic progression. Additionally, serve as the NASA representative on campus and advise the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) student club, supporting Indigenous students in STEM fields.

• Innovation: Stay current with technological advancements in digital manufacturing and engineering education, incorporating innovative teaching methods and equipment into the curriculum.

• Grant Management: Preferred experience in writing and managing grants, particularly in STEM and education, to support program development and funding initiatives.

• Administrative Duties: Take on responsibilities for program oversight, including ensuring catalog and website accuracy, managing content for flyers and outreach, overseeing budgeting, and supervising student interns and potentially employees as the program grows.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, or a closely related field is required; Ph.D. is preferred.

• Experience: Demonstrated experience in teaching at the college level, with a focus on physics and pre-engineering. Experience in managing laboratory environments is preferred, though candidates without direct experience in digital manufacturing equipment but with a strong interest and ability to learn will be considered.

• Technical Skills: Familiarity with digital manufacturing processes and tools, with a willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies.

• Cultural Competence: Knowledge of and sensitivity to Indigenous cultures and communities, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment for Native students.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with students, faculty, and community partners.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with curriculum development and assessment.

• Familiarity with outreach and community engagement strategies.

• Ability to mentor and advise students in research and project-based learning.

To apply you must submit an SKC application, cover letter, resume and applicable transcripts to Human Resources, P.O. Box 70, Pablo, MT 59855 or email View email address on skc.edu Your application must include evidence that you have the skills, experiences and abilities indicated in this announcement. Applicants are asked to provide copies of academic transcripts and any other educational, training or applicable credential or license, which may support your application for this position. The information you provide with your application and resume will be used as deciding factors in our employment process.