Building Trades Instructor

Suny Sullivan; New York (NY); On-site; USD 55,104 - 68,880; Part time

Job summary

A workforce development provider in New York is seeking a skilled Building Trades Instructor to lead a part-time, hands-on training program. The instructor will deliver practical lessons in construction technology, ensuring students gain job-ready skills for the local labor market. Ideal candidates have extensive construction experience and strong teaching abilities. Compensation ranges from $40 to $50 per hour, depending on qualifications and enrollment, with classes held in the evening.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in residential or commercial construction.
• Ability to demonstrate safe use of construction tools and equipment.
• Strong knowledge of jobsite safety and building techniques.

Responsibilities

• Deliver instruction aligned with the Construction Technology curriculum.
• Lead hands-on shop activities and safety briefings.
• Foster a supportive learning environment for adult learners.

Skills

Construction technology

Communication skills

Safety protocols

Hands-on instruction

Tools

Power tools

Hand tools

Job description

Position Title:Building Trades Instructor
Department:Workforce Development
Reports To:Director of Workforce Development
Employment Type:Part-Time / Evening Cohort
Program Length:10 Weeks (8 hours per week; 2 evenings per week)
Location:Sullivan BOCES, 52 Ferndale Loomis Rd., Liberty, NY 12754

POSITION SUMMARY

SUNY Sullivan Workforce Development is seeking a skilled, hands-on Construction Technology Instructor to deliver a 10-week practical training program designed to prepare adult learners for immediate employment in residential and light commercial construction in the Hudson Valley and Sullivan County region. The instructor will teach foundational construction skills, including the use of tools and safety, framing, interior/exterior systems, commercial specialties, concrete, building codes, and jobsite readiness.

The ideal candidate possesses real-world construction experience, enjoys teaching adult learners, and is dedicated to helping students develop job-ready skills for local employers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Instruction & Training

Deliver instruction aligned with the 10-unit Construction Technology curriculum, including:

• Tools & safety training (OSHA-based principles)
• Material identification and construction drawings
• Concrete forms and basic foundation concepts
• Wood framing (walls, doors, windows)
• Drywall installation and finishing
• Flooring, cabinets, interior specialty installations
• Exterior projects such as decks, stairs
• Building codes, inspections, and jobsite expectations
• Employability skills and capstone project

Lead hands-on shop activities, demonstrations, and safety briefings.

Ensure proper use, maintenance, and storage of program tools, materials, and equipment.

Student Support & Workforce Readiness

Foster a supportive environment for adult learners with varying skill levels.

Provide individualized coaching as needed to build tool proficiency and confidence.

Evaluate student performance based on attendance, participation, safety, and skills assessments.

Program Operations

Assist with setup and breakdown of training materials for each session.

Maintain a safe learning environment and enforce SUNY Sullivan and OSHA-aligned safety practices.

Coordinate with Workforce Development staff to track student progress, attendance, and outcomes.

Participate in instructor meetings, curriculum updates, and quality improvement activities.

Provide input on materials, equipment, and supply needs (including dismantling the capstone build after each cohort).

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

Minimum 5 years of experience in residential or commercial construction, carpentry, remodeling, or building maintenance OR equivalent trade experience.

Ability to demonstrate proper and safe use of hand tools, power tools, ladders, and equipment.

Strong knowledge of framing, drywall, flooring, decks, stair layout, commercial installations, and jobsite safety.

Strong communication skills with the ability to train adult learners.

Commitment to maintaining a safe working and learning environment.

Preferred

Prior teaching, training, or supervisory experience.

Experience with OSHA safety training or site supervision.

Knowledge of local Hudson Valley/Sullivan County employer needs.

Experience in estimating materials and managing small-scale projects.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Hands-on shop environment with physical activity such as lifting (up to 50 lbs), bending, and standing for extended periods.

Evening schedule (typically 2 evenings per week, 4 hours per night).

Use of PPE and adherence to all safety protocols required.

COMPENSATION

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. Hourly rate to be determined by SUNY Sullivan Workforce Development based on instructor background and program enrollment $40-50 per hour.

______________________________________________________________________________