The Kevin T. Crofton Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering at Virginia Tech seeks applications for a tenure-track faculty position in space structures and manufacturing at any rank effective August 2027. We seek candidates in areas relevant to space systems who will build and sustain a scholarly research and teaching portfolio on topics such as spacecraft structures; in-space manufacturing, assembly, servicing and repair; advanced manufacturing, resource utilization and additive manufacturing for space systems; lunar and planetary structures and habitats; structures for entry, descent and landing vehicles; and lightweight, deployable and/or high precision space structures. A new hire in this area will be encouraged to join Space@VT (https://www.space.vt.edu/), a college-level center engaged in research on all aspects of space science and systems. The new hire will also have opportunities to engage with VT MADE (https://made.vt.edu/new-home.html), Virginia Tech’s interdisciplinary initiative in advanced manufacturing, the broader advanced manufacturing community at Virginia Tech.

The Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering hosts a collegial faculty team supported by world-class teaching, high-performance computing, and experimental research facilities. Our unique combination of Aerospace and Ocean perspectives allows our researchers to forge new paths and launch our graduates into careers that deepen our understanding, advance technological solutions, and successfully design complex systems that must persistently operate in unforgiving Aerospace and Ocean environments.

Successful candidates will be responsible for developing a strong externally sponsored research program, teaching courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and mentoring students.

Applicants must hold an earned doctorate (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Aerospace Engineering or a closely related discipline by the time of appointment. Applicants must have a demonstrated record of scholarly research, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, externally funded research, or other relevant scholarly contributions; documented experience collaborating with researchers or professionals within or across disciplines; demonstrated participation in professional, university, or disciplinary service activities; and research experience that applies or integrates methods, concepts, or approaches across disciplinary areas to address complex technical or societal challenges. Successful applicants will be responsible for mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, teaching and developing courses, and developing a vibrant externally sponsored research program.

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Regular

110,00-180,000  

Commensurate with experience

40

December 1, 2026 

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Erin Wilson and erinwilson@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.