Dynamic Instructor or Assistant Teaching Professor – Rail Transportation Engineering (Remote) – Immediate Start at Penn State Altoona

Join a Pioneering Community of Rail Transportation Innovators

Are you passionate about shaping the next generation of engineers while staying at the forefront of rail transportation technology? Penn State Altoona invites you to become an integral part of its renowned Rail Transportation Engineering (RTE) program. This remote‑friendly position offers a unique blend of academic excellence, industry relevance, and a supportive, collaborative culture that empowers you to thrive as an educator, mentor, and thought leader.

About Penn State Altoona and the Rail Transportation Engineering Program

Located in the historic heart of Centre County, Pennsylvania, Penn State Altoona is a vibrant campus renowned for its hands‑on engineering education and deep ties to the transportation sector. The Rail Transportation Engineering program, established in partnership with industry leaders and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, stands out for its:

• Cutting‑edge curriculum integrating real‑world rail systems design, operations, and safety.
• State‑of‑the‑art laboratories, simulation tools, and field‑trip opportunities that give students practical experience.
• Strong research agenda focused on sustainable rail solutions, high‑speed rail, and intelligent transportation systems.
• Collaborative network of alumni, industry partners, and professional societies such as the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA).

As a member of this thriving academic ecosystem, you will contribute to a legacy of producing engineers who drive innovation across freight, passenger, and commuter rail networks worldwide.

Position Overview

The university is seeking a highly motivated individual to fill the role of Instructor, Assistant Teaching Professor, or Professor of Practice in Rail Transportation Engineering. Depending on your academic credentials and professional experience, you will be appointed at the appropriate rank and will enjoy a one‑year contract with strong potential for renewal and advancement.

Why This Role Stands Out

• Immediate Start: Your expertise will be put to work right away, helping to prepare courses for the Fall 2024 semester.
• Remote Flexibility: While the position is anchored to Penn State Altoona, all teaching and mentoring responsibilities can be performed remotely using our sophisticated learning management system.
• Competitive Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience, plus a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, retirement, and tuition discounts.
• Professional Visibility: Opportunities to present research, lead workshops, and represent the university at industry conferences.

Key Responsibilities

As a faculty member in the Rail Transportation Engineering program, you will be expected to fulfill the following core duties:

• Curriculum Delivery: Design, develop, and teach undergraduate courses covering topics such as rail vehicle dynamics, track design, signaling systems, and rail safety management.
• Student Mentorship: Advise and mentor a diverse cohort of undergraduate students, guiding them through academic planning, research projects, internships, and career pathways.
• Program Development: Contribute to continuous curriculum improvement, assessment strategies, and accreditation processes to ensure the program meets evolving industry standards.
• Research & Collaboration: Engage in applied research projects, secure external funding where possible, and collaborate with faculty across engineering disciplines.
• Community & Outreach: Represent Penn State Altoona at professional conferences, host guest lectures, and develop partnerships with rail operators, manufacturers, and government agencies.
• Service Commitment: Participate in departmental committees, faculty governance, and community service initiatives that align with the university’s mission.

Essential Qualifications

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following minimum criteria:

• Educational Background: A graduate degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in engineering, engineering technology, or a closely related field earned by the start date of the appointment.
• Professional Experience: If holding only a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five (5) years of progressive, relevant experience in the rail industry, demonstrating expertise in design, operations, or maintenance.
• Teaching Ability: Proven ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts to undergraduate audiences, supported by prior teaching, tutoring, or training experience.
• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication abilities, with a demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment.
• Commitment to Student Success: A passion for mentoring students, supporting their academic growth, and encouraging their professional development.

Preferred Qualifications

Candidates who bring the following additional strengths will be highly valued:

• Industry certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) license, AREMA certifications, or similar credentials.
• Experience teaching or developing courses in rail vehicle dynamics, track engineering, signal and control systems, or rail safety standards.
• Active involvement in professional societies, conference presentations, or published research in rail transportation.
• Experience securing or managing research grants, especially those related to sustainable rail solutions, high‑speed rail, or intelligent transportation systems.
• Familiarity with remote teaching technologies, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and online assessment tools.

Core Skills & Competencies

Success in this role hinges on a blend of technical, interpersonal, and organizational capabilities:

• Technical Acumen: Deep understanding of rail engineering principles, standards, and emerging technologies.
• Pedagogical Expertise: Ability to design engaging, student‑centered curricula that incorporate active learning, problem‑based projects, and real‑world case studies.
• Mentorship Mindset: Skillful guidance of students through academic challenges, career planning, and research opportunities.
• Collaboration: Comfortable working across interdisciplinary teams, faculty committees, and industry partners.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a remote work environment while maintaining clear communication and presence.
• Ethical Leadership: Commitment to upholding academic integrity, diversity, equity, and inclusion in all professional activities.

Career Growth & Professional Development

Penn State Altoona is deeply invested in the long‑term success of its faculty. In this role you will benefit from:

• Clear Promotion Pathways: Opportunities to advance from Instructor to Assistant Teaching Professor, then to Associate or Full Professor, based on scholarly contributions, teaching excellence, and service.
• Funding Support: Access to internal seed funding for pedagogical innovation, as well as assistance in applying for external research grants.
• Professional Development Programs: Workshops on online pedagogy, curriculum design, grant writing, and leadership development.
• Mentor Networks: Pairing with senior faculty mentors who provide guidance on teaching strategies, research collaborations, and career planning.
• Conference Participation: Financial support to attend and present at national conferences such as the AREMA Annual Conference or the Transportation Research Board (TRB) meeting.

Work Environment & Culture

At Penn State Altoona you will join a community that values:

• Innovation: Encouragement to experiment with new teaching methods, industry‑relevant projects, and technology‑driven research.
• Inclusivity: A campus climate that celebrates diversity, fosters belonging, and ensures equitable access to resources.
• Collaboration: Strong ties between faculty, industry partners, and alumni create a vibrant ecosystem for knowledge exchange.
• Work‑Life Balance: Flexible remote work arrangements, generous leave policies, and supportive administrative services.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to contribute to regional transportation initiatives, public outreach, and K‑12 STEM programs.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits (General Overview)

While the exact salary will align with your experience and rank, successful candidates can expect a competitive package that typically includes:

• Base salary commensurate with market rates for engineering faculty.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings options, including a 5% university match on contributions.
• Generous paid time off, holidays, and a summer break schedule.
• Tuition remission: 75% discount for spouse and dependent children for all Penn State courses.
• Professional development allowance for conferences, certifications, and continuing education.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art labs, research facilities, and online teaching platforms.
• Employee assistance programs focused on wellness, mental health, and work‑life integration.

Application Process & Required Materials

To apply, please follow the university’s internal hiring procedures via Workday. External candidates should:

1. Submit a tailored cover letter highlighting your teaching philosophy, industry experience, and vision for the Rail Transportation Engineering program.
2. Provide a current curriculum vitae (CV) that details academic credentials, publications, teaching history, and professional achievements.
3. Upload unofficial transcripts (official transcripts will be required prior to appointment).
4. Include contact information for three professional references who can attest to your suitability for the role.

Review of applications will commence in January 2024 and will continue until the position is filled. All applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics, in line with Penn State’s affirmative‑action and equal‑opportunity policies.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Penn State is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and inclusive environment. We are an equal‑opportunity and affirmative‑action employer; decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification. If you require an accommodation to complete the application process, please contact the Human Resources office at 814‑865‑1473.

Security & Safety Transparency

In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Penn State regularly publishes its Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, which includes comprehensive data on campus safety, crime prevention initiatives, and resources for community members. All new hires will undergo a background check consistent with university policy to ensure a safe learning environment.

Take the Next Step in Your Academic Career

Are you ready to inspire tomorrow’s rail engineers while advancing your own professional journey? This role offers the perfect blend of remote flexibility, academic prestige, and industry relevance. We welcome passionate educators who are eager to make a lasting impact on the rail transportation sector.

Apply Today

Submit your application through Penn State’s Workday portal and embark on a rewarding career with a university that values innovation, inclusivity, and excellence. We look forward to welcoming you to the Penn State Altoona family.

Apply Now