Jacksonville State University

Department Head, Aviation

Jacksonville State University’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences invites applications for a Department Head of Aviation to lead a newly created department at Jacksonville State University. This full-time, tenure-track, 12-month position will begin May 2026.

This department head will report to the Dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, who reports directly to the Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs. This hire is the first in the department, which is expected to grow by one faculty member every other year, so the department head will have an opportunity to shape the department and program by providing vision, leadership, direction, and expert administration.

A terminal degree is required along with at least five years’ experience flying. Leadership experience in an academic setting, the military, or the private sector is also required. The salary is contingent upon qualifications, experience, and needs of the university.

Primary Responsibilities

• Responsible for teaching  undergraduate level courses in Aviation along with research and advanced data analysis.
• Responsible for curriculum and program development, advisement, professional development activities, and grant writing within the Aviation curiculum.
• Develops and implements a program of instruction that meets the individual needs, interests and abilities of students and is consistent with the university, SACS accreditation, and state study and curriculum guides, including any program specific accreditations.
• Assesses student’s abilities as related to desired educational goals and objectives, in order to maximize student achievement.
• Serves as advisor and mentor for students.
• Plans and employs a variety of appropriate instructional/learning strategies and activities which are compatible with the physical facility but serves the needs and capabilities of the students.
• Manages the behaviors of learners in the classroom and participates in the management of student behavior in other parts of the campus, in order to provide a general environment conducive to the learning process.
• Communicates continually to students (either in writing or verbally) in regards to instructional expectations, student progress or lack of progress.
• Responsible for recording students’ attendance and keeps attendance records, according to JSU policy.
• Actively participates in and works with university personnel in planning effective instructional goals, objectives, methods and curriculum.
• Exhibits a commitment and ability to conduct scholarly activities and engage in professional, university, and community service.
• Participates in professional growth and development activities including staff meetings, and in-service and staff development activities as required or assigned.
• Assists in the documentation of student progress by efficiently maintaining and submitting appropriate records and reports.
• Ensures that the classroom or instructional environment is healthful and safe and generally conducive to learning.
• Agrees to participate in extra-curricular activities as requested by the Dean of the School.           
• Participates and belongs to educational/professional associations (within concentration) and participates in their activities.
• Fulfill faculty responsibilities as stated by institutional and departmental policy and by administration.
• Serves on departmental and university committees.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• An earned terminal degree in an aviation-related field, such as business, management, leadership, aviation, etc.
• A minimum of five (5) years of flight experience
• Experience in a leadership role in an academic setting, the military, or the private sector

Preference will be given to candidates with one or more of the following:

• An earned doctoral degree in an aviation-related field
• A master’s degree in an aviation-related field
• A minimum of five (5) years of experience in higher education
• Experience teaching in an aviation program
• Possession of, or eligibility to maintain, appropriate FAA certifications

The following FAA Certifications:

• Private Pilot (PPL)
• Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
• Certified Flight Instructor–Instrument (CFII)
• Commercial Pilot (CPL)
• Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)

Applicants should submit:

• Cover Letter
• CV
• Unofficial Transcripts

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

This position has an anticipated start date of May 1, 2026.

About the Department

The Department of Aviation at Jacksonville State University offers an undergraduate degree with concentrations in aviation management, commercial aviation, and public safety aviation. Commercial aviation students will participate in flight labs at partnering Part 141 flight schools. The program will begin Fall 2026.

About Jacksonville, Alabama

Jacksonville offers an exceptional quality of life in the heart of Alabama's scenic Appalachian foothills. Located strategically between Birmingham and Atlanta, residents enjoy easy access to major metropolitan areas while embracing the charm of a vibrant college town. The area boasts beautiful natural landscapes with numerous parks, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities at nearby Cheaha State Park and Talladega National Forest. Jacksonville features a thriving downtown district with local restaurants, shops, and cultural venues, complemented by excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods. The cost of living is remarkably affordable compared to major metropolitan areas, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle with access to quality healthcare, recreational facilities, and a strong sense of community. The region's rich history, combined with Jacksonville State University's cultural and athletic events, creates a dynamic environment that attracts professionals seeking both career growth and an outstanding work-life balance.

About Jacksonville State University

Located in the Appalachian foothills of northeast Alabama, Jax State is home to over 10,000 students representing 63 countries. As a learning-centered university, it strives to challenge students academically in a responsive environment, meeting their educational, career and personal goals. Academically, Jax State offers 113 academic programs and concentrations, including bachelor's, master's, post-baccalaureate, doctoral and advanced certificate programs. More than 40 online programs are offered across six colleges on its 459-acre campus. For more details about Jacksonville, AL, please click on this link.

Clery Notice: In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act, https://www.clerycenter.org/the-clery-act the Jacksonville State University Police provide information on crimes statistics, crime prevention, law enforcement, crime reporting, and other related issues for the past three calendar years. The JSU Annual Campus Security and Fire Report is available at: https://www.jsu.edu/police/docs/cleryannualreport.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity: Jax State is an Equal Employment and Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.