Automotive Training Program Instructor

Citylink Center; Cincinnati, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company Matched IRA Plan

Paid Vacation & Holidays

Job summary

ChangingGears in Cincinnati seeks an Automotive Training Program Instructor to equip the next generation of automotive technicians through hands-on instruction, mentorship, and industry partnerships. You’ll help students build confidence and career-ready skills in a real shop environment.

You’ll manage curricula, supervise hands-on training, support students from diverse backgrounds, and collaborate with client services to place graduates.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to teach and mentor adult learners in a hands-on environment.
• Strong communication skills for student guidance and feedback.
• Commitment to program quality, safety, and industry standards.
• Experience aligning curricula with current automotive practices.

Responsibilities

• Deliver hands-on automotive instruction to develop technical skills for employment.
• Provide individualized coaching to support student growth and success.
• Manage curriculum, syllabus, schedule, and instructional materials to industry standards.
• Supervise hands-on training and practical demonstrations in automotive service.
• Serve as mentor and primary contact for recruitment, training, and job placement.
• Coordinate enrollment, attendance, progress tracking, and records for the program.
• Build partnerships with employers and training partners to improve student outcomes.

Skills

Teaching

Mentoring

Communication

Adult Education

Education

ASE Certification or equivalent

Tools

Educational Technology

Job description

To empower people who are working towards prosperity by providing affordable transportation solutions.

Vision

As we help each other, people will have the freedom to accomplish their dreams.

Values

• Faithful – Listen to God and do what he says.
• Integrity – Do what is right, even when it’s hard.
• Innovate – Continually learning, creating and improving.
• Collaborate – Work as a team to accomplish our mission.
• Celebrate – Mark achievements with joy.

Automotive Training Program Instructor

Position Overview

The Automotive Training Program Instructor equips the next generation of automotive technicians with the skills, confidence, and professionalism needed to launch successful careers. Through hands-on instruction, mentorship, and industry partnerships, you’ll help students build brighter futures while using your own automotive experience in a meaningful new way.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

Instruction and Syllabus Management

• Deliver engaging, hands-on automotive instruction that equips students with the technical skills needed for employment.
• Provide individualized instruction and coaching to students, adapting instruction to support their growth and success.
• Maintain and continuously improve the curriculum, syllabus, training schedule, and instructional materials to meet current industry standards and improve program outcomes.
• Conduct practical demonstrations and supervise hands-on training in automotive service.

Student Support and Communications

• Serve as the primary mentor and point of contact for students, providing guidance, encouragement, and regular communication throughout recruitment, training, job placement, and early employment.
• Provide mentorship and support to students from diverse cultural backgrounds, fostering an inclusive learning environment that promotes adult education principles.
• Partner with the ChangingGears and CityLink Client Services teams to proactively address student challenges and support long‑term success.

Program Administration

• Coordinate the day‑to‑day operation of the training program, including enrollment support, attendance tracking, academic progress, classroom logistics, equipment, supplies, and student records.
• Administer student assessments, including the TIA exam.
• Train and support volunteers who assist with the program.

Collaboration and Partnerships

• Build strong relationships with industry employers and local automotive businesses to ensure students receive an exceptional training experience and graduates meet workforce needs.
• Collaborate with other ChangingGears programs and training partners to create a consistent client experience.

Career Placement and Retention Support

• Support graduates in securing employment by cultivating employer relationships, coordinating shop tours, and connecting students with career opportunities.
• Conduct workplace visits with recent graduates to provide ongoing support and promote job retention.

Other Duties & Responsibilities

• Represent ChangingGears and the Technician Training Program at recruiting events, workshops, graduations, and community activities.
• Support the broader mission of ChangingGears through collaboration across programs and other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Demonstrates a genuine commitment to the mission, vision, and values of ChangingGears.
• Ability to teach, mentor, and motivate adult learners while managing multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Proficient in basic computer applications.
• Pass pre‑employment drug screening and background check.
• Valid driver’s license with no more than two moving violations and/or at‑fault accidents within the past two years.
• No drug or alcohol‑related convictions on driving record within the past five years (DUI/DWI).
• Willingness to complete and pass the required TIA and S/P2 certifications upon hire.

Experience/Certification Requirements

• Significant professional experience as an automotive technician with a strong understanding of current repair practices and industry standards.
• Previous teaching, coaching, mentoring, or training experience.
• ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification or equivalent credentials preferred.
• Previous experience in automotive training or a related field is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Able to stand for extended periods while instructing.
• Able to perform in an automotive shop with no air conditioning.
• Able to perform hands‑on automotive tasks, including lifting up to 50 pounds.

Time Commitment & Classification

• Full-Time (approximately 40 hours per week), Exempt.
• Hours are generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., on site at ChangingGears.
• Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required for special events or meetings.
• Reports to Program Director.
• Salary dependent upon experience.
• Company Matched IRA Plan.
• Paid Vacation & Holidays.

Why Join ChangingGears?

At ChangingGears, you’ll do more than teach automotive repair. You’ll help change lives. Every student you invest in leaves with the opportunity for meaningful employment and greater financial stability.

This role is ideal for an experienced technician who enjoys sharing knowledge, developing others, and making a lasting impact. You’ll spend your days teaching, mentoring, and building relationships while continuing to stay connected to the automotive industry. With a predictable weekday schedule and a mission‑driven team, you’ll have the opportunity to use your expertise in a deeply rewarding way.