Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering Teacher

Job Opportunity: Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering TeacherAbout Lotus School for Excellence

Lotus School for Excellence (LSE) is a premier K-12, college-prep public charter school with a specialized S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) focus. At LSE, our mission is to develop academic, social, and ethical leaders. We seek professionals who are not only experts in their field but are also passionate about creating a dynamic environment that drives exceptional student outcomes.

Role Overview

We are seeking an innovative and student-centered PLTW Engineering Teacher to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers. In this role, you will transition from traditional lecturing to becoming a facilitator of discovery. You will guide high school students through a rigorous, project-based curriculum, challenging them to solve real-world problems using industry-standard software and technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Instructional Leadership: Deliver the PLTW Engineering pathway (e.g., Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics) using activity-, project-, and problem-based (APB) instructional design.
• Facilitate Discovery: Guide students through the Engineering Design Process, emphasizing iterative testing, ethics, and collaborative "failing forward."
• Technical Proficiency: Maintain and provide instruction on industry-standard tools, including CAD software, robotics kits, 3D printers, and workshop machinery.
• Laboratory Management: Maintain a safe, inclusive, and high-energy lab environment that mirrors a professional engineering firm.
• Professional Growth: Attend required PLTW Core Training and engage in continuous professional development to stay current with emerging technologies.
• Industry Connection: Build relationships with local engineering firms to coordinate guest speakers, site visits, and mentorship opportunities.

Note on Training: Successful completion of (or willingness to complete) PLTW Core Training over the summer is required. Training costs are fully funded by LSE, and the trainee will be compensated for their time during the duration of the training.

Qualifications & CompetenciesRequired Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology Education, or a related STEM field.
• PLTW Status: Successful completion of (or willingness to complete) PLTW Core Training.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional communication, adaptability, and a growth mindset regarding new technology.

Core Competencies

• The Engineering Mindset: Ability to teach the practical application of math and science to build real-world solutions.
• Collaboration: Skill in partnering with Math and Science departments to create cross-curricular connections.
• Resourcefulness: Proficiency in troubleshooting hardware/software and managing a specialized lab budget.

Preferred Experience

• Professional background in engineering or manufacturing.
• Valid CO Teaching License (Vocational/CTE or Secondary Math/Science/Tech Ed).
• Familiarity with Autodesk Inventor, Fusion 360, or Revit.
• Experience coaching competitive robotics teams (VEX, FIRST).
• Proven success in differentiating instruction for diverse learners.

Program Development

• Lead the annual student rocket build and launch program.
• Support the future expansion of the PLTW pathway into Aerospace Engineering, including identifying appropriate launch sites for larger-scale projects.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE)

Lotus School for Excellence is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment. All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, identity, orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.