Welding Teacher/FFA Advisor-Artesia High School

RECRUITMENT INCENTIVE FOR CERTIFIED STAFF NEW TO APS

TEACHER HOUSING AVAILABLE ON A LIMITED BASIS

DISTRICT PAYS 80% OF MEDICAL/DENTAL INSURANCE

DATE POSTED:  April 13, 2026

BEGINNING DATE:  August 7, 2026

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A valid New Mexico Public Education Department Secondary Vocational-Technical (7-12) Teaching License or a Secondary 6-12 License w/Agriculture Endorsement or meet the requirements to obtain either.

Job Summary:

The High School Welding Instructor provides classroom and hands-on shop instruction in welding and metal fabrication to secondary students. This position includes teaching dual credit courses in partnership with a local college, enabling students to earn both high school and college credit. The instructor prepares students for industry certifications and careers in welding and skilled trades.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver engaging instruction in welding processes.
• Teach dual credit curriculum aligned with partnering college standards.
• Develop lesson plans, assessments, and lab activities that meet both high school and college requirements.
• Maintain a safe and organized welding lab, enforcing all safety protocols and OSHA standards.
• Assess student performance and provide timely feedback on skills development.
• Prepare students for industry-recognized certifications.
• Collaborate with college faculty to ensure curriculum alignment and compliance.
• Maintain accurate student records for both high school and dual credit reporting.
• Advise students on career pathways in welding and technical trades.
• Participate in professional development and stay current with industry trends.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience teaching or training in a technical or vocational setting.
• Knowledge of blueprint reading, metallurgy, and fabrication techniques.
• Familiarity with CNC/plasma cutting and modern welding technologies.
• Ability to integrate academic concepts (math, measurement, reading) into technical instruction.
• Strong classroom management and communication skills.

Working Conditions:

• Combination of classroom instruction and hands-on shop environment.
• Exposure to heat, fumes, loud noise, and heavy equipment (with proper safety precautions).
• Requires standing for extended periods and lifting materials.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 6–8 hours per day) in a classroom and shop environment.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds; occasional heavier lifting with assistance.
• Manual dexterity to safely operate welding equipment, hand tools, and machinery.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach overhead while demonstrating techniques or assisting students.
• Visual acuity (with or without corrective lenses) to read blueprints, inspect weld quality, and monitor student work.
• Ability to work in environments with exposure to heat, sparks, fumes, loud noise, and bright light, while consistently using required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies and maintain awareness of surroundings to ensure student safety.
• Sufficient hearing ability (with or without assistive devices) to communicate effectively and detect equipment issues or safety concerns.

FFA Advising

• Serve as the District's Assistant FFA Advisor, assist in leading the chapter in all aspects of FFA activities, including planning meetings, coordinating events, and managing chapter resources.
• Provide guidance to students in developing their Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), supporting their growth in leadership, responsibility, and career skills.
• Assist in the preparation and coaching of students for Junior and Senior High FFA contests and other competitions.
• Encourage and mentor students in leadership development, public speaking, and career exploration within the agricultural field.
• Supervise students at local, regional, and state FFA events, ensuring their safety, participation, and growth in these activities.

REPORTS TO:  Building Principal

WORK SCHEDULE:  184 Day Base Contract 35 Days

HOW TO APPLY:  Complete the entire application ONLINE to be considered for this position.  Provide complete reference information for each reference including name, address, contact number, and email address.  Resume and reference letters are optional.  Current employees of the Artesia Public Schools should apply as an Internal applicant.

REQUIREMENTS:  The applicant, if selected, MUST undergo a FBI Fingerprint Background Report

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY-Discrimination against an otherwise qualified individual with a disability or any individual by reason of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, or national origin is prohibited.  Efforts will be made in recruitment and employment to ensure equal opportunity in employment for all qualified persons.  If due to a disability, you are currently unable to perform any of the job duties identified in this job description, advise the personnel department of that condition.  The personnel department will make a determination whether a reasonable accommodation can be made in these job duties and procedures to address that disability.