Faculty Specialist 1, Design Foundations, Problem-Solving & Visualization, 1-Year Term

Western Michigan University invites applications and nominations for the position of Faculty Specialist 1 Professional Specialist in the Richmond Institute for Design + Innovation (RID+I) in the College of Fine Arts. This is a 1-year (academic year) terminal position with the possibility of renewal contingent upon enrollment and adequate funding. The anticipated start date is fall 2026.

RID+I seeks a dynamic faculty member to teach courses in design foundations with a focus on problem-solving, visualization, and three-dimensional design thinking. This position emphasizes the exploration of spatial relationships, form, and craft through a variety of analog and digital media. The successful candidate will guide students in developing the ability to generate, analyze, and communicate design ideas with clarity and precision, preparing them for advanced coursework in design communication and studio practice.

Major Responsibilities:

• Teach courses within the professional curriculum, such as design studios, materials, lectures, seminars, multi-disciplinary courses, and workshops.
• Work with program coordinators and faculty team to maintain NASAD and CIDA accredited status.
• Support pedagogies in sustainability, applied technology and social-based design with the development of coursework.
• Assist in annual program events such as portfolio review, lecture series, design charettes and portfolio archiving.
• Assist with managing materials lab for Interior Architecture + Design and Product Design.
• Hold office hours, maintain academic standards, and perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• A graduate degree in architecture or design-related discipline (MFA, M.Arch, or equivalent), or international equivalent with a minimum of one studio-based degree in a design discipline or architecture. Or, a studio-based Bachelors degree in architecture or design-related discipline with at least 5 years of work experience.
• Demonstrated abilities and competencies in the following:
  • Knowledge of contemporary design theory and practice.
  • Proficiency in digital software.
  • Experience with online/hybrid teaching.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Ability to inspire and motivate students.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Collaborative and problem-solving skills.
  • Commitment to continuous learning.

The University: Western Michigan University is a learner-centered, discovery-driven, and globally engaged public university that stands out among Americas more than 4,000 higher education institutions. Founded in 1903, WMU has grown to become a major national research university enrolling more than 16,000 students from across the United States and 100 other countries. Based in Kalamazoo, WMU is a friendly, top-rated college town situated close to large urban centers, great jobs, and abundant recreational areas. WMU delivers high-quality undergraduate instruction, has a strong graduate division, and fosters significant research activities. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching has placed WMU among the 76 public R2 institutions in the nation designated as a doctoral university with higher research activities.

The College: The College of Fine Arts (CFA) consists of the Gwen Frostic School of Art, School of Music, School of Theatre and Dance, and the Richmond Institute for Design + Innovation which houses the Product Design and Interior Architecture and Design programs. All units in the College are nationally accredited. Facilities for the learning and practice of the arts at WMU are exceptional and compare favorably with other schools nationally with similar mission and scope. With a student body of about 1300, the CFA entering class regularly has the highest academic profile of any college.

The College of Fine Arts is housed in Dalton Center, Richmond Center for Visual Arts, and South and Central Kohrman Hall, Dunbar Hall, and the Gilmore Theatre Complex surrounding Fountain Plaza. Students perform in three theatres, a 400-seat recital hall, three professional art galleries, and dance performance studios mounting over 400 performances annually. New technology-based curricula, a motion capture and virtual imaging technology lab, specialized computer labs, and other discipline specific laboratories. State-of-the-art facilities host exhibitions of student, faculty, and visiting artist works.

The Richmond Institute for Design + Innovation: Founded in 2017, RID+I is the newest unit in the College of Fine Arts and is comprised of two vibrant design programs: Interior Architecture and Design (IAD) and Product Design (PD). IAD serves 134 majors and is accredited by NASAD and CIDA, while PD serves 70 majors and is accredited by NASAD. The core of RID+I consists of 3 board-appointed faculty and 7 adjunct practitioners. RID+I resides in over 48,000 square feet of LEED certified, renovated space.

Salary: Pay is commensurate with qualifications and experience, combined with an excellent benefits package.

Expected Start Date: 8/15/2026

Application Deadline: The review of complete applications is in progress and will continue until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration, application materials should be received by January 10, 2026.

Required application documents:

• A current CV
• A cover letter that directly addresses your experience(s) with the minimum qualifications and job duties.
• A list of 3 references (one of which must be your current or most recent supervisor)

WMU is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Minorities, women, veterans, individuals with disabilities and all other qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

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