Department Head, Computer Science

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Closing Date:

Type of Position:

• Chair
• Workstudy Position:

No

Job Type:

Regular

Work Shift:

• Day Shift (United States of America)
• Sponsorship Available:

No

Institution Name:

University of Arkansas at Fort Smith University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that’s redefining higher education. We’re on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. We’re committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas’s rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state’s varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Department:

• College of Arts and Sciences
• Department's Website:

Summary of Job Duties:

The Department of Computer Science at the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith (UAFS) seeks applications for the Department Head and Neal Pendergraft Leadership Endowed Chair to be appointed at the rank of full Professor. As one of the Five Pillars of Excellence identified in the 2023-28 UAFS Strategic Plan, Computer and Data Science, are primed for expansion at the University and across the Arkansas River Valley. The department currently offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, a minor in Computer Science and Certificates of Proficiency in Cybersecurity and Data Analytics.

The Neal Pendergraft Leadership Endowed Chair is a distinguished faculty position established through philanthropic support to attract and retain an exceptional scholar and leader in the field. Through an annual spending allocation, the Chair will advance innovation in data science education, research, and industry engagement, strengthening the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith’s impact in preparing graduates for a data-driven economy.

The Department Head serves as the primary administrator and leader for the academic unit and reports to the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. The successful candidate will teach a 15-credit hour courseload during the 12-month contract year. Administrative duties include managing full-time and part-time faculty, academic program development and growth, program evaluation and assessment, and collaboration across the university and with industry leaders. The position will start July 1, 2026.

Qualifications:

Required Education and Work Experience: Ph.D. in Computer Science or related discipline from an accredited institution; and

Demonstrated experience in an academic or professional leadership position for at least three years, supervising others and being a team leader.

Scholarly record commensurate with appointment as a full professor at UAFS. Applicants should be prepared to provide evidence of their continuity in scholarly/creative activities. Evidence could include but is not limited to presentations at national or international conferences, peer-reviewed published scholarship, extramural grant funding, development of published instructional materials, and/or other scholarly activity as is appropriate to their academic discipline.

Demonstrated experience in the effective use of technology in the classroom, developing instructional materials, and delivering distance learning.

Demonstrated commitment to first-generation and non-traditional learners and pedagogical experience in support of a broad range of students.

Demonstrated excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Provide effective leadership and administration of the Department of Computer Science by facilitating the vision, mission, goals, objectives, and activities of the department as consistent with those of the College and University

Coordinate recruiting, hiring, evaluation, and retention of qualified faculty and staff

Manage the department’s fiscal year budget, development funds, and other expenses

Create curricula and semester course schedules centered upon student success

Coordinate outreach, recruitment, marketing, and fundraising to support departmental programs

Engage with programmatic and industry advisory boards

Maintain a positive work atmosphere that fosters teamwork and collegiality

Teach various computer science courses in their area of expertise and others as needed.

Maintain a positive work atmosphere that fosters teamwork and collegiality

Maintain scholarly and research activities appropriate to a full professor

Encourage and advocate for scholarly and research activities in department faculty and students

Participate in service at the department, college, university, community, and professional levels

Other duties as assigned by the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Requires consistent on-time attendance.

Maintain a positive work atmosphere that fosters teamwork and collegiality

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

To perform job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

Ability to collaborate with students, faculty, staff, and administrators to achieve departmental, college, and university goals

Commitment to growth in all aspects as a faculty member, including teaching, scholarship, and service and fostering these attributes in the departmental faculty

Ability to administer academic programs, including scheduling, evaluation, and budgeting

Attention to maintenance of facilities and technology, including computer and data science laboratories

Willingness to engage with external stakeho