Teaching Focused Academic Mechanical Engineering

About VU

At VU, we aim to be one of the leading impact universities in the world. VU is an impact‑driven university committed to equity, excellence and opportunity. Based in Melbourne’s west and connected globally, we put students first through the VU Block Model®, dual‑sector pathways and strong industry partnerships. We are a values‑led, inclusive workplace where diverse talent is supported to make a real difference.

About the role

As a Teaching Focused Academic, your primary focus will be teaching, curriculum, student support and scholarship of teaching and learning. You will contribute to Mechanical Engineering and related Engineering units, including industry informed and project based learning and Integrated Design Projects where allocated. You will bring contemporary professional practice into the classroom, contribute to Engineers Australia accreditation and build productive links with industry. We value academic ambition, and staff who wish to develop research capability can do so over time; eligible Teaching Focused Academics may apply through VU's pathway to a Teaching and Research Academic role.

This role reports to the Head of Built Environment and Engineering and contributes to the College's commitment to learner centred education, professional relevance, industry partnership and student success.

Position Key Duties

• Develop and deliver high quality learning activities across Mechanical Engineering and related Engineering units.
• Contribute to integrated, industry informed and project based learning, including Integrated Design Projects where allocated.
• Bring contemporary Mechanical Engineering practice into teaching in areas such as advanced manufacturing, automation, robotics, industrial systems and production engineering.
• Assess student learning, provide timely feedback, undertake moderation and support students to achieve intended learning outcomes.
• Contribute to curriculum renewal, unit coordination, teaching resources and continuous improvement of learning and assessment.
• Undertake scholarship of teaching and learning and maintain disciplinary and professional currency.
• Build productive industry and professional relationships that strengthen curriculum relevance and student career readiness.
• Contribute to Engineers Australia accreditation, academic quality assurance, collegial service, outreach and engagement within the College.

Position Details

• Classification: Teaching Focused Academic Level B
• Salary: $113,221 - $134,449 per annum + 17% employer superannuation 
• Employment Type: Full time, Continuing
• Hours per Week: 36.75
• Location: Footscray Park

For a detailed overview of the role’s duties and responsibilities, please refer to the Teaching Focused Academic Mechanical Engineering Position Description

About You

You are a Mechanical Engineer and educator with strong disciplinary capability, professional credibility and a commitment to high quality teaching and student success. You will bring:

• A PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline, preferably with current or recent industry or practice based experience.
• Specialist capability in one or more areas such as advanced manufacturing, automation, robotics, industrial systems, production engineering or contemporary industrial practice.
• Demonstrated ability, or clear capacity, to deliver engaging higher education teaching and support student learning in Mechanical Engineering.
• A strong understanding of contemporary pedagogy, including project based, integrated and authentic engineering learning.
• Ability to develop effective curriculum, assessment and learning environments and to contribute to moderation and continuous academic quality improvement.
• Current or recent engagement with engineering practice and the ability to build productive relationships with industry and the profession.
• Capacity to contribute to Engineers Australia accreditation and professional standards.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and organisational skills, with a commitment to inclusive education, student support and a collegial team culture.
• A commitment to scholarship of teaching and learning, ongoing professional development and an interest in developing research capability over time.

Please note: The University is a Child Safe organisation. You will be required to hold a current Employee - Working with Children Check (WWCC) or be willing to obtain one prior to commencing employment. 

Who to Contact? 

For further information relating to the position, please contact: 

• Name: Zora Vrcelj 
• Position Title: Head of Program Built Environment and Engineering
• Email: [email protected]

How to apply 
To submit your application please click on the Apply button.

Applications must be submitted as a single document comprising:

• A cover letter 
• Your curriculum vitae/resume 
• Your responses addressing all selection criteria located in the Position Description
• Evidence of applicable qualifications, licences and registration

NOTE: Applications which do not address the Key Selection Criteria will NOT be considered.

Applications will close 15 November 2026 at 11:59pm. 

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This role requires for applicants to have full and permanent working rights in Australia.

Why Join VU: 

VU provides competitive salaries, excellent superannuation, and a variety of benefits. The university fosters an environment where staff can excel, achieve their goals, and develop their careers. With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and family-friendly policies, VU supports both professional and personal well-being. For more information, please visit our Careers at VU Webpage 

Our Commitment

Victoria University is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially responsible community. We honour our deep diversity by respecting First Nations perspectives and embedding sustainable approaches to Protecting Country, while championing progressive inclusivity for all—embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and racially marginalised communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people of all ages and socio‑economic backgrounds. As a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, we strive to create a place where everyone feels they belong, and we ensure a positive, barrier‑free recruitment experience by providing adjustments and accessible formats upon request at  [email protected] or (03) 9919 5999.