Instructor of Automotive Technology

Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) offers career-training programs in numerous technical, industrial, and medical fields. Located in Richlands, Virginia, SWCC provides associate’s degrees in business, education, general studies, liberal arts, and science, primarily for students transferring to four-year universities. The college also offers career-focused associate degrees in fields such as Nursing, Radiography, and Administration of Justice.

This is a three-year, full-time, hybrid faculty credit/non-credit, 9-month, grant-funded position funded by an ARC POWER Grant to enhance career pathways and provide students with technical skills and industry-recognized credentials for the evolving automotive industry.

About the Role

The Instructor of Automotive Technology will provide high-quality instruction in automotive systems, diagnostics, and repair within both classroom and hands-on lab environments. The role focuses on integrating nationally recognized, third-party certifications into the curriculum while preparing students for careers in traditional and emerging automotive technologies. This is a restricted position contingent upon funding availability and the needs of the College, with a three-year grant term and no eligibility for severance benefits under state policy.

Responsibilities

• Instruction & Teaching
  • Teach automotive technology courses in classroom, lab, and shop settings.
  • Deliver hands-on, competency-based instruction emphasizing diagnostics, repair, and safety.
  • Incorporate current automotive technologies, including hybrid and electric vehicle systems.
  • Apply innovative teaching strategies to engage diverse learners.
• Certification Integration & Curriculum Development
  • Integrate ASE and other nationally recognized third-party certifications into program curriculum.
  • Develop, revise, and maintain course content aligned with current industry standards.
  • Ensure students are well-prepared for certification testing and employment.
  • Support ongoing program improvement and adoption of emerging automotive technologies.
• Student Advising & Support
  • Advise students on academic progress, certification pathways, and career opportunities.
  • Provide mentoring and support to improve retention and completion rates.
  • Assist students in preparing for certification exams and workforce entry.
• Recruitment & Outreach
  • Participate in recruitment activities, including career fairs, high school visits, and community outreach.
  • Promote program offerings and career opportunities in automotive technology.
  • Support enrollment and student onboarding initiatives.
• Collaboration & Workforce Engagement
  • Partner with industry employers to align curriculum with workforce needs.
  • Support development of internships, apprenticeships, and job placement opportunities.
  • Engage in college committees, professional development, and program initiatives.

Instruction will primarily occur on SWCC’s main campus, with potential teaching at off-campus locations as needed. A one-year probationary period is required for new hires and transfers. May be required to perform other duties as assigned or assist in emergency declarations by the Governor.

Requirements

• ASE Technician certifications in Suspension and Steering (A4), Brakes (A5), and Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6).
• Associate degree in Automotive Technology or closely related field.
• Five years of industry experience in automotive diagnostics and repair.
• Strong communication, organizational, and instructional skills.
• Relevant industry certifications (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe).
• Operation of a state vehicle.
• Travel is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• ASE Master Technician certification.
• Experience working on all makes and models of vehicles.
• Experience with or interest in hybrid and electric vehicle systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Teaching or workforce training experience.
• Experience integrating certification standards into curriculum.

Courses Taught

• Automotive Diagnostics and Repair
• Advanced Automotive Technology
• Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Fundamentals

Pay

$52,905 to $68,297

Schedule

Work schedule will vary according to classes being taught and could be a combination of days, evenings, and weekends. This is a 9-month position.