Instructor – Certified Manufacturing Associate Training/Certification

Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan in Kalamazoo, MI is seeking a Certified Manufacturing Associate Training Instructor to deliver CMA instruction to adult learners. The role combines classroom teaching with hands-on manufacturing training and exam prep, aiming to prepare students for industry certification.

The instructor will develop lesson plans, assess progress, maintain records, and collaborate with staff to keep curriculum current and relevant.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate/bachelor in related field preferred.
• Minimum 3 years hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMA) or willingness to obtain within 6 months.
• Experience teaching, training, or mentoring adults preferred.

Responsibilities

• Deliver classroom and hands-on instruction to adult learners seeking CMA certification.
• Prepare lesson plans and instructional materials aligned with CMA curriculum.
• Assess student progress through quizzes, demonstrations, and certification exam prep.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, assessments, and outcomes.
• Provide individualized support and feedback to help students succeed.
• Collaborate with program staff to ensure curriculum relevance and improvement.
• Ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment.
• Stay current with industry trends and certification requirements.

Skills

Adult learning principles

Lesson planning

Instructional delivery

Student assessment

Feedback & mentoring

Curriculum collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent; associate/bachelor in related field preferred

Tools

MS Office

Email tools

Job description

Why work for Goodwill?

Ready for a career with impact? Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan (Goodwill SWMI) gives you the opportunity to make a difference in your local community while building your professional skills. Goodwill SWMI is a complex enterprise offering a wide range of career opportunities. Our organization rewards creativity and innovation while offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package. Our team members enjoy a unique work environment that is professional, fast‑paced and fulfilling.

About Our Organization

Goodwill SWMI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in Kalamazoo, Michigan, with nearly 300 dedicated team members helping to improve the community by providing employment, education, training, and support services tailored to individual needs across a six‑county territory. Goodwill SWMI manages ten retail stores, contract manufacturing operations, and custodial & janitorial business units, providing stability that is not always enjoyed by nonprofit organizations funded solely by external sources. Our values—Living the Mission; Promoting Teamwork; Driving Collaboration; Taking Responsibility; and Respecting and Appreciating Others—shape our culture and guide our interactions.

Position Title

Certified Manufacturing Associate Training Instructor

Classification

Hourly/Full Time

Supervised By

Vice President of Mission Services and Director of Workforce Development

Note:

Grants support this position. The position’s establishment and continuance may be dependent upon ongoing grant funding.

General Responsibilities

The instructor for Certified Manufacturing Associate Training/Certification delivers classroom and hands‑on instruction to adult learners seeking entry‑level certification in manufacturing. The instructor facilitates learning in accordance with industry standards, prepares students for certification exams, and supports their transition into manufacturing careers.

Essential Functions

• Deliver engaging instruction in manufacturing fundamentals, safety, quality practices, production processes, and maintenance awareness.
• Prepare lesson plans, instructional materials, and hands‑on activities aligned with the Certified Manufacturing Associate curriculum.
• Assess student progress through quizzes, practical demonstrations, and certification exam preparation.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, assessments, and student outcomes.
• Provide individualized support and feedback to help students succeed.
• Collaborate with program staff to ensure curriculum relevance and continuous improvement.
• Ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment.
• Stay current with industry trends and certification requirements.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, industrial technology, education, or related field preferred).
• Minimum of 3 years of hands‑on experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMA) credential or willingness to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• Prior experience in teaching, training, or mentoring adults (preferred).

Technical Skills

• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, safety protocols, and quality standards.
• Familiarity with manufacturing equipment and tools.
• Ability to demonstrate and teach hands‑on manufacturing tasks.
• Proficiency in using computers and basic software (e.g., MS Office, email).

Instructional Skills

• Strong communication and presentation abilities.
• Ability to develop lesson plans and instructional materials.
• Experience with adult learning principles and adapting teaching methods to diverse learners.
• Skill in assessing student progress and providing constructive feedback.

Interpersonal and Professional Skills

• Patience and empathy when working with adult learners from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational and record‑keeping abilities.
• Commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Willingness to stay current with industry trends and certification requirements.