Head of School - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering

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Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant

This job is based in Australia. 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.

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• 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.
  

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.

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• 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. Through mentoring, leadership development, scholarships, outreach, and strong industry partnerships, we foster an environment where women can thrive and lead.
  
• 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.
  

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

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• 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.
  

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.

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• 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.
  

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 JOBS@UNSW. Applications should not be sent to the contact below.

Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant

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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:

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• 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.