Automotive & Welding Youth Instructor

Job Purpose

The Automotive & Welding Youth Instructor teaches and mentors youth within Rawhide’s auto and welding programs. This role develops and delivers hands-on, industry-relevant instruction while fostering a therapeutic and engaging learning environment. The instructor is responsible for implementing curriculum, managing classroom behavior, and partnering with treatment teams to ensure the overall job training, personal development, and career readiness of students.

Essential Functions

• Deliver engaging automotive and welding instruction aligned with industry standards to both Rawhide and community youth.
• Develop and adapt curriculum to meet the individualized needs of at-risk youth.
•  Maintain classroom discipline, student attendance, academic records, and performance.
• Support therapeutic goals by collaborating with treatment teams and modeling interventions.
•  Ensure a clean, safe, and professional learning environment that complies with program policies.

Job Responsibilities

• Utilize and adjust curriculum to meet learning objectives, incorporating student feedback and assessments.
• Plan and implement hands-on learning experiences using demonstrations, tools, and technology.
• Maintain classroom inventory, track supply usage, and make cost-effective purchasing decisions.
• Monitor student behavior and attendance, providing guidance and support in a trauma-informed manner.
• Keep accurate academic records, including attendance, grading, and documentation for compliance.
• Communicate regularly with treatment teams, sharing progress updates and addressing concerns.
• Promote the Job Training Program by coordinating with internal staff and community partners.
• Model professional behavior and encourage career readiness skills and values.
• Participate in therapeutic and educational interventions to promote student well-being and life skills.
• Maintain safety standards by following OSHA regulations and internal safety policies.
• Support program growth by recommending improvements and collaborating with Rawhide departments.
• Serve as a mentor and leader in the Project Experience Program (PEP) and assist in the Career Class.
• Maintain Professional and Technical Knowledge
  • Completing required trainings
  • Attending educational workshops
  • Reviewing professional publications
• Establish Personal Networks
  • Participating in professional societies
• Protects the Credibility of the Rawhide Mission
• • Complying with the Rawhide standard of conduct
  • Setting an example, in words and actions, that is consistent with the values and beliefs of Rawhide
• Contributes to Team Effort
  • Performing other duties as directed or assigned by supervisor

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Certifications or formal training in automotive and welding preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of two years of relevant industry experience in automotive and/or welding required.

• At least one year of teaching, training, or mentoring experience is also required.
• Minimum one year experience working with youth, including at-risk youth.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage a classroom, implement curriculum, and assess learning.
• Capable of physical tasks required in shop/lab settings.
• Valid driver’s license with an insurable driving record.

Working Conditions

• Work will take place across classroom, automotive and welding shop settings
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and walking youth across campus
• Ability to safely perform youth physical interventions as needed; must complete required training in behavior management and approved restraint techniques, with an emphasis on trauma-informed care and mental health awareness
• Exposure to tools, welding equipment, and typical automotive repair materials
• Welding class takes place off campus; must be willing to transport small groups of youth independently
• Occasional travel required for off-campus program events
• Standard work hours with flexibility based on program needs

Benefit Overview

• Competitive Pay
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Competitive 401k plan
• 10 paid Holidays
• PTO, VTO, Wellness Day, & Floating Holiday
• 5 Weeks Paid Sabbatical Leave
• Onsite Café (New London)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Nature Trails/Waterfront on 600 acres (New London)
• Onsite Fitness Center and Gymnasium  (New London)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Jury Duty Leave
• Bereavement Leave
• Paid Benefits for Birth or Adoption