Position Number: 110050
Department: Sociology and Political Science
Job Purpose
TENNESSEE TECH UNIVERSITY invites applications for Chairperson of the Department of Sociology and Political Science at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor of Social Work, Criminology, or Sociology. The candidate will be classified as faculty on a nine-month contract with an expectation of summer administrative responsibilities with commensurate remuneration. The chairperson will oversee a growing department, which offers a major in Sociology, with concentrations in Criminology/Criminal Justice and Social Work, and a major in Political Science with a concentration in Legal Studies. The department will launch a Master of Social Work degree in the fall of 2027. The extramural research portfolio of the department’s faculty is strong and is associated with several research centers, such as, the Center for Addiction Prevention and Support, the Center for Assessment and Improvement of Learning, the Center for Energy Systems Research and the Center for Management Utilization and Protection for Water Resources. Essential Functions The selected candidate will provide leadership and vision for the academic, personnel, fiscal and public affairs of the Department of Sociology and Political Science. The selected applicant will oversee budget and fiscal management, annual evaluation of faculty, supervision of departmental staff, recruitment and retention of faculty and students, management and improvement of curricula, course scheduling, faculty, staff, and student development, program assessments and reviews, and serving on departmental, college, and university-level committees. In addition, they will represent and serve as an advocate for the department. Finally, they will maintain appropriate levels of teaching, research, and service.
Minimum Qualifications
A PhD or DSW from an accredited institution is required. The candidate must be eligible for appointment at Tennessee Tech as a Professor (or advanced Associate Professor) of Social Work, Sociology, Criminology or related field. The selected applicant must have demonstrated previous leadership experience, scholarly accomplishment, and a strong commitment to teaching excellence and active learning teaching pedagogies. Evidence of strong interpersonal skills and the building and sustaining a culture of collaboration is expected.
About the University
Tennessee Technological University (TN Tech), located in Cookeville, Tennessee, is a comprehensive public university serving approximately 11,000 students. Ranked as one of ‘America’s Top Colleges’ by Forbes, Tennessee Tech is currently classified as a Carnegie R2 research university, but its research enterprise is rapidly progressing. The university offers a strong balance of high-quality STEM programs, social sciences, professional studies, and the arts. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, Tennessee Tech provides a close-knit academic community while supporting nationally recognized research and outreach initiatives. research and is committed to advancing knowledge, inspiring innovation, and serving the people of Tennessee, the nation, and the world through teaching, research, and service. Cookeville, Tennessee’s Upper Cumberland hub, is an affordable college town with strong health care, education, and outdoor recreation. Nearby lakes, waterfalls, and
state natural areas round out a high quality of life for faculty and their families. Salary Commensurate with education and experience.
Benefits Information
Tennessee Tech offers a competitive benefits package which includes the accumulation of one (1) sick leave day per month and thirteen (13) University holidays. Other benefits include medical and life insurance (shared cost with the university), retirement, optional 401k, and educational benefits. Deferred income and benefits over 12 months.
Screening Date: 01/15/2026
Chairperson of Sociology and Political Science, Tennessee Tech University. Applicants can apply at: TTU Portal | Chair / Professor (or advanced Associate Professor) of Social Work, Criminology, or Sociology. The application screening date is January 15, 2026; open until filled.
Tennessee Tech is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.