Become the Next Provost and Chief Academic Officer at AFIT
The Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, is seeking a visionary academic leader to serve as its Provost and Chief Academic Officer (CAO). This executive-level position is ideal for an experienced academic administrator ready to shape the future of graduate-level defense education and research. As the principal liaison for academic quality and accreditation, you will influence the professional development of future Air Force leaders.
Job Responsibilities
The CAO functions as the primary advisor to the Institute's Director and Chancellor. Your duties will include:
- Directing strategic academic planning and operational resource management.
- Leading institutional and programmatic accreditation efforts (HLC and ABET).
- Representing AFIT to the Air University Board of Visitors and other federal agencies.
- Overseeing faculty development and academic governance structures.
- Fostering research partnerships across the DoD and civilian academic sectors.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must hold a doctorate in a STEM-related field and possess credentials sufficient to warrant a full professor appointment. You must demonstrate at least five years of senior-level administrative experience in an accredited college or university. Additionally, candidates must be U.S. citizens capable of obtaining a Top Secret security clearance.
At-a-Glance: Position Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Degree | Doctorate (STEM field preferred) |
| Experience | 5+ years in academic administration |
| Status | Non-Tenure Track |
| Location | Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio |
| Security | Top Secret |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive federal salary of $209,600 per year. As a federal employee, you will have access to a robust benefits package, including relocation support, which may include tax-advantaged reimbursement for eligible moving expenses.
How to Apply
Applications are processed exclusively through the official USA Staffing portal. Ensure your package includes your CV, a cover letter (stating citizenship), all official transcripts, and separate statements addressing the specific Mandatory and Professional qualifications requested in the announcement. Incomplete packages will not be reviewed.
The role of Provost at AFIT is a prestigious opportunity to lead a world-class academic institution. If you possess the experience, leadership, and vision to guide high-impact educational initiatives, apply today to join the Air Force mission.
Why This Provost And Chief Academic Officer Job Matters
Lead academic excellence at the Air Force Institute of Technology as the Provost and Chief Academic Officer, where your leadership will shape the future of defense innovation and graduate education.
Provost And Chief Academic Officer Job Overview
The Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) is seeking a visionary Provost and Chief Academic Officer to guide its academic strategy, research mission, and faculty development. As the principal academic leader, you will advise senior leadership on strategic planning, resource allocation, and academic governance, ensuring that AFIT remains at the forefront of graduate engineering and management education. This is a high-level executive position equivalent to a brigadier general, offering a unique opportunity to drive institutional quality and national-level educational standards.
Requirements for Provost And Chief Academic Officer
- Earned Doctorate degree in STEM or a field relevant to the AFIT mission.
- Academic credentials qualifying for appointment at the rank of full professor with tenure.
- Five years of significant academic administrative leadership experience at an accredited college or university.
- Expert written and verbal English communication skills.
- U.S. Citizenship (must be stated in application materials).
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test.
Preferred Qualifications for Provost And Chief Academic Officer
- Experience with institutional or academic program accreditation (HLC/ABET).
- Proven success in securing and executing government-sponsored research grants.
- Demonstrated skill in building cross-institutional and federal partnerships.
- Knowledge of Department of Defense operations, policies, and strategic planning.
- Strong record of innovation in academic administration and educational technologies.
- Recognized stature and exceptional professional achievement in academic societies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Relocation and travel expenses paid.
- ✓Comprehensive federal employee benefit package.
- ✓Opportunities for high-level collaboration with defense and scientific leaders.
- ✓Professional environment with Top Secret clearance access.
- ✓Relocation Income Tax Allowance (RITA) eligibility where applicable.
💡 How to Apply Provost And Chief Academic Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Provost And Chief Academic Officer Job
- Prepare a formal letter of application (cover letter) including a statement of citizenship and any veterans' preference claims.
- Compile a detailed curriculum vitae highlighting executive/command-level experience.
- Gather official transcripts for all degrees obtained.
- Draft separate statements addressing Mandatory Qualifications and Senior Professional Qualifications (Leadership, Contributions, Stature).
- Provide contact information for three professional references.
- Submit your complete application package via the official portal before July 31, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifies hours worked per week and exact dates of employment to ensure full consideration.
- Do not include photographs in your resume or CV.
- Double-check that all official transcripts are included; unofficial copies will result in disqualification.
- Clearly separate your Mandatory Qualification Statement from your Professional Qualifications statement.
- If claiming veterans' preference, ensure your DD-214 and any applicable disability documentation (SF-15) are attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a tenured position?
No, this is a non-tenure track, Administratively Determined (AD) executive-level position.
What is the security clearance requirement?
The position is designated as Critical-Sensitive/High Risk, requiring a Top Secret security clearance.
Can I submit my application by mail?
No, faxed or mailed applications are not accepted. You must apply through the designated online portal.
What is the application deadline?
All applications must be received by July 31, 2026.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Yes, travel and relocation expenses will be paid for the selected candidate.
Job from Department Of The Air Force - Agency Wide
AFIT is the Air Force’s graduate school of engineering and management, offering high-level research and professional continuing education. As a regionally accredited institution with numerous ABET-accredited programs, AFIT maintains a "High Research Activity" status. It operates at the intersection of academic excellence and national security, providing critical expertise to the Department of the Air Force and the broader Department of Defense.