HVAC Instructor

About the Role

Tidewater Tech is looking for an experienced HVAC/R technician to train the next generation in Norfolk, VA. This role is ideal for a technician ready to step off the truck and into a consistent, mission-driven instructor position — without losing touch with the hands-on work that matters. If you're looking for a stable schedule, a climate-controlled classroom, strong benefits, and the chance to shape new HVAC technicians, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Position Purpose

The HVAC program prepares students for entry-level careers in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration through hands-on training on real-world systems. As an instructor, you'll teach students to troubleshoot faulty AC units, repair heating systems, install ductwork, and work with commercial refrigeration, electrical components, and airflow dynamics — covering topics like air conditioning & refrigeration, heating systems, commercial AC & refrigeration, comfort & psychrometrics, heat pumps, and advanced troubleshooting & service. You'll also help prepare students for industry-recognized credentials, including EPA Section 608 Refrigerant Certification, OSHA 10-Hour Safety Certification, DPOR credit toward future Journeyman HVAC Certification, and the Industrial Competency Exam (ICE) — equipping graduates for careers as AC technicians, HVAC installers, refrigeration technicians, HVAC engineers, and more.

No prior teaching experience required. We provide a 5-day paid instructor training program to help you successfully transition into the classroom.

Why Teach HVAC at Tidewater Tech

• Get off the truck: predictable weekday hours, no on-call emergencies or weekend service calls.
• Share your expertise and build a legacy by training the next generation of HVAC/R technicians.
• Full benefits from day one, including health, dental, vision, 401(k) match, and tuition reimbursement.
• Curriculum, materials, and administrative support provided — you focus on teaching, we handle the rest.
• $2500 sign-on bonus and pay up to $35/hour based on experience.

Schedule Options

Full-Time (choose one):

• Monday–Thursday, 8:00 am–2:00 pm and 4:30 pm–10:30 pm
• Monday–Thursday, 8:00 am–7:00 pm
• Monday–Thursday, 1:00 pm–10:30 pm

Part-Time:

• Monday–Thursday, 7:30 am–2:30 pm
• Monday–Thursday, 4:00 pm–10:30 pm

What You'll Do

• Teach HVAC/R classes on a regular schedule in a hands-on classroom and lab setting.
• Create a welcoming, supportive learning environment that keeps students engaged and on track.
• Help develop curriculum, prepare course materials, and maintain tools and equipment.
• Track attendance, grades, and student progress, and flag students who need extra support.
• Collaborate with the Program Coordinator and Campus leadership on scheduling and student outcomes.
• Take part in ongoing instructor training and professional development.

What You'll Need

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum 3 years of practical, hands-on HVAC/R work experience.
• OSHA 10-hour safety certification (can be completed within 6 months of hire).
• EPA refrigerant certification (can be completed within 6 months of hire).
• Strong communication skills and a genuine interest in mentoring adult students.
• Comfortable with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams) for recordkeeping and reporting.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage a classroom in a fast-paced environment.

Nice to Have

• Previous classroom, lab, or apprenticeship-instruction experience.
• North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification.

Compensation & Benefits

Pay is up to $35/hour based on experience and qualifications, plus a $2,500 sign-on bonus. Full-time team members are also eligible for:

• 401(k) with company match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance from first day of employment
• Life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Paid time off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition reimbursement

Location: 2331 E Little Creek Rd, Norfolk, VA 23518