Construction Instructor

About the role

The Construction Instructor will manage the NCCER Certification process of students in the construction pathway, ensuring adherence to all training requirements for industry-recognized credentials including OSHA 10 and NCCER Core (Introduction to the Construction Trades). The instructor will maintain records, provide required documentation, and ensure each student receives their certification by completing all necessary registration, filing, and submission steps. Additionally, the instructor will model and instruct employability and soft skills essential for securing and retaining employment in the construction sector, while fostering effective communication within the school team.

Responsibilities

• Teach workplace safety using approved curricula to award OSHA–10 Basic Safety certification.
• Implement and adhere to the construction laboratory safety plan, including accident/injury reporting procedures.
• Develop and coordinate a pacing guide aligned with NCCER curricula to ensure adequate time for participants to learn construction skills and achieve industry credentials.
• Create a supportive and optimistic learning environment that actively engages participants through functional construction-related activities and varied instructional methodologies (group work, hands-on activities, multimedia presentations).
• Coordinate with academic teachers to identify participants needing learning accommodations and incorporate those accommodations into instruction and testing with dignity, respect, and privacy.
• Guide participants in developing construction craft skills with an emphasis on employability and soft skills such as teamwork, communication, accountability, and resiliency.
• Incorporate critical thinking and functional academics through project- or problem-based learning to help students develop communication and teamwork skills relevant to building trades.
• Communicate proactively and effectively with school team members regarding participation, performance, and well-being.
• Mentor, coach, and advise students on workforce skills needed for employment in the construction sector, drawing on personal experience to foster leadership development, self-discipline, and optimism.
• In coordination with leadership and placement staff, build relationships with construction partners to create employment opportunities for graduates.
• Provide required performance reports and participate in relevant meetings, workshops, and committees.
• Maintain a detailed tracking system and complete all certification process steps to ensure participants receive credentials in a timely manner.
• Maintain and provide weekly updates on the “Progress Tracker” for each credential.
• Ensure completion of Credit Flex Plans so students can earn available academic credits.
• Ensure all students are correctly enrolled in the appropriate DASL course.
• Complete all steps for students to take certification tests and provide copies of earned certifications to the Placement Specialist for inclusion in students’ Career Portfolios for graduation.
• Assist in securing Workforce Experience (WEX) opportunities for students and ensure classroom learning supports relevant WEX placements.
• Participate in Quarterly Workforce Advisory Committee meetings as needed.
• Actively assist in recruiting and retaining students in the construction pathway, focusing on improved attendance and certification completion.

Qualifications

• Eligibility to secure an Ohio Department of Education vocational teacher license or permit.
• Exceptional craft skills in the area of construction.
• Commitment to the organization’s mission, vision, and growth.
• Passion for improving educational and career opportunities for urban students and building a mission-driven organization.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Effective organizational skills with the ability to perform multiple tasks.
• Willingness to go “above and beyond” to support students in achieving academic and career goals.
• Understanding and appreciation for non-traditional learners and learning environments.
• Commitment to continued personal and professional growth.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in construction or a construction-related field.
• Proficiency with NCCER.
• High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Working Conditions

This job is performed in a craft classroom/laboratory environment and ideally extends to in-field learning opportunities.

Physical Requirements

The role requires the usual and customary physical capabilities associated with a construction/craft learning environment, including lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and operating hand and power tools. Reasonable accommodations can be made for employees with qualified disabilities who can perform the essential functions of the job without undue hardship.

Supervision

Receives occasional, minimal guidance but follows established work methods. No direct reports.