LeTourneau University, often abbreviated as LeTour or LETU, is a private Christian polytechnic university located in Longview, Texas. Founded in 1946 by R.G. LeTourneau, an inventor and businessman known for his earthmoving equipment, the institution began as LeTourneau Technical Institute to train returning World War II veterans in engineering and technical skills. It evolved into a full university in 1989, emphasizing hands-on, experiential learning integrated with Christian faith. Today, it serves around 3,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong focus on STEM fields like engineering, aviation, computer science, and business, alongside education, psychology, and theology.
The university's polytechnic model means practical application is central—students engage in real-world projects, internships, and capstone designs from day one. A polytechnic university is defined as an institution prioritizing applied sciences and technology with professional preparation through labs and industry partnerships. LeTourneau's campus spans 162 acres in East Texas, featuring modern facilities like the Joullian Black Box Theater and flight simulators for its renowned School of Aviation and Aeronautical Science. Its Christian foundation requires all faculty and staff to affirm an evangelical statement of faith, fostering a community where spiritual growth complements academic rigor.
For job seekers, LeTourneau University represents a unique opportunity to work in higher education where faith, innovation, and practical education intersect. Positions here attract professionals passionate about mentoring students in a values-driven environment.
Jobs at LeTourneau University span faculty, staff, and administrative roles tailored to its mission. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, cybersecurity, mathematics, and business administration. For example, the university frequently seeks experts in aeronautical engineering due to its flight training programs, where instructors might hold FAA certifications alongside PhDs. Staff roles cover admissions counselors, IT specialists, and facilities managers, while executive positions like dean of the College of Engineering involve leadership in curriculum development.
Common openings include adjunct professor jobs for part-time teaching, research assistant jobs in labs developing sustainable energy solutions, and lecturer jobs in general education courses. The university also posts higher ed jobs in administration, such as HR coordinators supporting faculty recruitment. To understand the variety, visit university job types for a breakdown of positions like professor jobs and higher ed jobs in faculty categories. Current listings often highlight needs in growing programs like biomedical engineering and data science, reflecting industry demands in Texas.
These roles contribute to LeTourneau's 95% job placement rate for graduates, underscoring the impact of university employment.
To secure jobs at LeTourneau University, candidates must meet stringent academic standards. Faculty roles generally require a PhD in the relevant field (Doctor of Philosophy, the highest academic degree signifying expertise through original research). For engineering professor jobs, a PhD in mechanical or electrical engineering is standard, often with ABET accreditation experience. Aviation positions may accept a master's degree plus professional pilot licenses.
Research focus at LeTourneau centers on applied technologies: sustainable engineering, unmanned aerial systems, and cybersecurity for critical infrastructure. Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (5+ for tenure-track), grant funding from NSF or private foundations, and industry tenure (3-5 years). For instance, recent hires in computer science had patents in AI applications.
Administrative roles prioritize competencies in student advising and compliance with accreditation bodies like SACSCOC (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges).
Polytechnic University: An educational institution focused on science, engineering, and technology with emphasis on practical, vocational training rather than purely theoretical study.
Tenure-Track Position: A faculty job leading to tenure after 5-7 years, offering job security in exchange for research, teaching, and service contributions.
ABET Accreditation: Recognition by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, ensuring programs meet professional standards for engineering education.
The application process begins on the university's career site, letu.edu/jobs. Submit a CV (curriculum vitae, a detailed academic resume), cover letter, statement of Christian faith, transcripts, and three references. Interviews include teaching demonstrations and theological discussions. Campus visits to Longview are common for finalists.
Tip: Review how to write a winning academic CV for tailored advice. Apply early, as rolling deadlines apply for adjunct roles.
LeTourneau University actively pursues diversity through the Office of Intercultural Relations, hosting events like Black History Month seminars and Hispanic Heritage celebrations. The Envision Program supports underrepresented minorities in STEM with scholarships and mentoring. Hiring practices include blind resume reviews and partnerships with organizations like the Christian College Consortium for diverse candidates. In 2023, 25% of new faculty hires were from underrepresented groups, reflecting commitment to inclusive excellence within a Christian framework.
Work-life balance is prioritized with flexible schedules, generous PTO (12 days annually for staff), and family leave policies. Faculty benefit from sabbaticals every seven years for research. Campus life in Longview, Texas—a city of 80,000 with low cost of living ($2,500/month for family)—includes weekly chapel, intramural sports, and community outreach like mission trips. The Solheim Athletic Complex hosts events fostering team spirit. Employees enjoy perks like tuition remission for dependents and on-campus childcare, creating a supportive, faith-centered community.
Jobs at LeTourneau University offer a fulfilling path in higher education, blending technical expertise with spiritual purpose in Longview, Texas. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job to connect with opportunities. For faculty insights, check employer branding secrets and prepare using free cover letter template.
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