i guess your point is not about the titile but which professor is in charge of the admission
my tips (not necessarily the right ones): 1. search for the phd program director and coordinator 1.1 director is always some professor who is really a big shot in the field. therefore, in the first stage, you might want to contact with the coordinator who is usually an ap. 1.2 if the coordinator can not fully answer your question or even recommend you to contact with the director, you can then get the director. 2. the most productive professors in recent years usually have a stronger say 3. get some insider information. if some current students tell you who is in charge. there can be nothing better.
Tenure-track: University Professor>Endowed\Chair\Distinguished Professor>Full Professor>Associate Professor with tenure>Associate Professor without tenure>Assistant Professor
Non-tenure track: Visiting (assistant/associate/full) Professor, Adjunct Professor