Instructor, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

Meridian Technology Center; Stillwater (OK); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational institution in Oklahoma is seeking an experienced Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Instructor. This role requires a strong background in the field, proven ability to develop and present curriculum, and engagement with industry standards. The successful candidate must hold an Oklahoma Mechanical Contractors License and support apprenticeship opportunities. This is a 10-month position with a salary commensurate with experience, starting in July 2026.

Qualifications

• Must have at least three years journeyman experience in the industry.
• Willingness to pursue instructor certification within three years of employment.
• Must adhere to safety practices and OSHA guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Develop curriculum for high school and adult training.
• Evaluate students' progress and report weekly.
• Maintain contact with industry for curriculum relevance.
• Ensure safe learning environment.
• Participate in community recruitment and retention efforts.

Skills

Journeyman experience in air conditioning and refrigeration

Proficient in residential and commercial HVAC systems

Ability to lift 50 pounds

Excellent communication skills

Education

Oklahoma Mechanical Contractors License

Career Tech graduate preferred

Tools

Basic Repair Tools

Testing Equipment

Job description

Instructor, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must have at least three years journeyman experience in the air conditioning and refrigeration industry to meet certification requirements of the Trade and Industrial Education Division of the Oklahoma Department of Career & Technology Education and be eligible for a valid certificate issued or recognized by the State Board of Education.
• Oklahoma Mechanical Contractors License required.
• Career Tech graduate preferred and must be willing to pursue instructor certification during the first three years of employment.

Must be proficient in the operation of the following equipment used in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program:

• Residential and Light Commercial Heat and Air Systems
• Commercial and Industrial Heat and Air Systems
• Domestic Refrigeration Equipment
• Basic Repair Tools and Test Equipment

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develop and present curriculum related to air conditioning and refrigeration to high school and adult students in such a manner as to provide them with marketable job skills upon completion of the training program.
2. Evaluate the accomplishments of students on an ongoing basis. Submit weekly progress reports to the Career Planning Center.
3. Establish a Business and Education Council of people successful in the air conditioning and refrigeration field to provide input into the relevance of curriculum and equipment used in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program and meet with this committee formally at least twice each year. Informal meetings with one or more members should take place monthly.
4. Maintain continuous contact with businesses and industries throughout the district that employ persons in the trade. Gain information regarding new techniques, equipment, or potential jobs which could be implemented in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program, as well as seek employment for graduating students and ideas for curriculum development and recruitment.
5. Support and participate in apprenticeship and work-based learning opportunities, including coordination with the apprenticeship team as applicable.
6. Ensure a safe learning environment by modeling and enforcing industry-standard safety practices and OSHA guidelines.
7. Abide by all policies and procedures adopted by the MTC Board of Education and assist administration in implementing all policies and/or procedures governing student conduct.
8. Join and participate in professional and trade associations, as well as civic organizations.
9. Attend all staff meetings called by the Superintendent, Executive Director of Instruction, and the Director of Instruction.
10. Maintain records, prepare and submit reports on time as requested.
11. Maintain accurate inventory records and closely monitor the use of inventory items in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program to prevent loss, damage, or theft.
12. Utilize assigned working hours (7 a.m. – 4 p.m. or 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.) efficiently and report to the Director of Instruction any exceptions. Be available in the program to assist students by 7:40 a.m. and 12:35 p.m. daily as well as after scheduled class time.
13. Promote MTC and its programs and employees at every available opportunity, with specific responsibilities for recruitment and promotion of the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program.
14. Request up‑to‑date equipment in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program for relevant training of students.
15. Work with students involved in the SkillsUSA student organization to develop leadership skills.
16. Place students in realistic on‑the‑job training situations or full‑time employment upon satisfactory completion of the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program.
17. Perform maintenance on machines as needed and when applicable to keep the equipment in top operating condition and teach this skill set to students within the program.
18. Order stock for student projects as needed throughout the school year, utilizing proper purchasing procedures.
19. Maintain required licensure, certifications, and continuing education, including compliance with current air conditioning and refrigeration codes, in accordance with industry and Career Tech standards.
20. Must be able to occasionally lift items weighing as much as 50 pounds, climb a ladder, distinguish between and correctly identify colors, have eye‑hand coordination and finger dexterity, work with hands above head level, maintain a sufficient level of balance to walk rafters, work at heights up to 50 feet.
21. Actively support and model MTC’s Culture of Excellence by demonstrating a commitment to the Standards of Excellence, continuous improvement initiatives, collaboration, innovation, and delivering high‑quality service to students, staff, and the community.
22. Live out MTC’s Mission, Vision and Values in daily work and interactions. Uphold and model the values of:
    • Relationships – Act in the best interest of others
    • Excellence – Deliver superior services
    • Innovation – Integrate new ideas with courage
    • Integrity – Model honesty and trust in all we do
    • Empowerment – Provide the framework and resources to succeed
    • Impact – Commit to enrich each life we touch
23. Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Instruction, Executive Director of Instruction, or the Superintendent.

10-month position (August 1, 2026 - May 31, 2027)

STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE

The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Instructor will be evaluated on the previously listed responsibilities to determine satisfactory compliance. These evaluations will determine salary increases and career advancement possibilities.

FLSA CLASSIFICATION

Exempt

SALARY

Commensurate with experience.

AVAILABLE

July 13, 2026