Working at FH Südwestfalen, your next career step!

🎓 Overview of Fachhochschule Südwestfalen

Fachhochschule Südwestfalen, commonly known as FH Südwestfalen or South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences, stands as one of Germany's prominent universities of applied sciences. Located primarily in Soest, Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia), with additional campuses in Iserlohn, Hagen, Meschede, and Lüdenscheid, it serves over 14,000 students across diverse programs. Unlike traditional research universities, a Fachhochschule emphasizes practical, hands-on education, bridging academia and industry. This focus makes jobs at Fachhochschule Südwestfalen particularly appealing for professionals seeking to combine teaching, applied research, and real-world application.

The university excels in fields like engineering, business administration, computer science, and social sciences, fostering innovation in Germany's industrial region. For job seekers, opportunities abound in academic, research, and administrative capacities, contributing to its reputation for strong industry partnerships and regional development.

History of FH Südwestfalen

The roots of Fachhochschule Südwestfalen trace back to 1844 with the establishment of engineering schools in Iserlohn and Soest. In its modern form, it emerged in 2002 through the merger of several institutions, including the Fachhochschule Iserlohn and others, creating a multi-campus powerhouse. This consolidation allowed for expanded offerings and resources, positioning it as a leader in applied sciences education.

Over the years, FH Südwestfalen has grown significantly, earning accreditations for quality and pioneering dual-study programs where students alternate between classes and industry placements. Today, it hosts international partnerships and research centers, making it a dynamic employer in higher education.

Campuses and Locations in Nordrhein-Westfalen

Strategically situated in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany's most populous state, the university's campuses offer varied environments. The Soest campus, your primary focus, specializes in architecture, civil engineering, electrical engineering, and business law, nestled in a historic town with excellent transport links to Dortmund and Cologne. Other sites like Iserlohn emphasize economics and media, while Hagen focuses on health sciences.

Working here means enjoying the Ruhr area's cultural vibrancy, proximity to industries like automotive and machinery, and quality of life with green spaces and affordable living compared to larger cities.

Academic Faculties and Programs

FH Südwestfalen comprises nine departments, delivering over 60 bachelor's and master's programs. Key faculties include:

• Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (Soest): Digital systems, automation.
• Mechanical Engineering (Soest): Sustainable manufacturing, materials science.
• Business Administration and Law (Soest): International business, logistics.
• Architecture and Civil Engineering (Soest): Urban planning, building technology.

These programs integrate practice-oriented projects, attracting students and creating demand for expert faculty and staff.

Job Opportunities at Fachhochschule Südwestfalen

Jobs at Fachhochschule Südwestfalen span professorships (W1/W2), research associates, lecturers, and administrative positions. Academic roles involve teaching small groups, supervising theses, and leading applied research projects. For more on types of university positions, including adjunct and full-time roles, visit our guide.

Current openings often include professor positions in renewable energy or IT security, research assistants in AI applications, and admin roles in student services. Salaries follow public sector scales, with professors on W2 (up to €7,343 gross monthly in 2024, plus allowances).

Definitions

To help understand key terms related to jobs at Fachhochschule Südwestfalen:

• Fachhochschule (FH): University of Applied Sciences, focusing on practical training rather than pure research.
• W2 Professorship: Permanent full professorship in Germany, requiring qualification and experience.
• Habilitation: Post-PhD qualification demonstrating teaching and research independence, often expected for senior roles.
• Dual Study Program: Combines academic study with paid industry work, common at FHs.

Required Academic Qualifications

📊 For academic jobs at Fachhochschule Südwestfalen:

• Professors: Master's or PhD in relevant field, five years professional experience (three in industry/practice), proven pedagogical skills via trial lectures.
• Research Assistants: Master's degree, often pursuing PhD; German B2/C1 level usually required.
• Lecturers: Industry experts with bachelor's/master's and practical background.

Qualifications align with Hochschulrahmengesetz (Higher Education Framework Act), emphasizing applicability.

Research Focus and Expertise Needed

Research at FH Südwestfalen is application-driven, with centers like the Institute for Sustainable Economic Development and Competence Center for Digital Transformation. Expertise in areas such as:

• Renewable energies and smart grids.
• Industry 4.0 and additive manufacturing.
• Health informatics and bioengineering.
• Logistics and supply chain management.

Candidates with funded projects or patents stand out, as the university secures EU Horizon and DFG grants annually.

Preferred Experience

Employers prioritize:

• Publications in applied journals (e.g., 5+ peer-reviewed papers).
• Industry leadership (e.g., project management in SMEs).
• Grant acquisition (DFG, BMWK funding).
• International experience or third-party collaborations.

Teaching demos and student evaluations are crucial in hiring.

Skills and Competencies

Essential skills include:

• Strong communication for student interaction.
• Interdisciplinary teamwork with industry partners.
• Proficiency in German and English; software like MATLAB, CAD.
• Project management and digital teaching tools (Moodle).

Soft skills like adaptability suit the dynamic FH environment.

Application Process and Tips

📋 Applications go through the university's job portal (stellen.fh-swf.de) or department emails. Process:

1. Submit CV, transcripts, publication list, research/teaching statement.
2. Prepare 5-10 minute trial lecture.
3. Attend interviews with faculty panel.
4. Await appointment by state ministry (up to 6 months).

Tips: Customize for FH focus—highlight practice over theory. Use winning academic CV strategies. Network via conferences. For Germans, join Hochschulverband. Internationals: Get ZAB credential evaluation.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

FH Südwestfalen actively advances equality via the Gleichstellungsbeauftragte (equality officer). Initiatives include:

• Women in STEM mentoring, targeting 30% female professors.
• International Week for global exchange.
• Accessibility programs for disabled staff/students.
• Audit 'Family-Friendly University' certification since 2015.

These foster an inclusive workplace valuing diverse backgrounds.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

German public universities offer excellent balance: 40-hour weeks, 30 vacation days, parental leave (up to 3 years), telework options post-COVID. Campuses feature modern labs, sports facilities, and canteens. Soest's green setting aids relaxation, with events like faculty balls and research fairs enhancing community. Proximity to Sauerland trails supports outdoor pursuits, while Ruhr cities provide cultural outlets.

Why Pursue Jobs at FH Südwestfalen?

Joining means impacting future engineers in Europe's innovation hub, with job security, pension (VBL), and growth opportunities. Explore higher ed jobs or professor jobs for similar roles.

In summary, jobs at Fachhochschule Südwestfalen blend teaching excellence, applied research, and regional ties. Ready to apply? Check higher ed career advice, build your profile with our free resume template, and browse university jobs or post a job if recruiting.