What are the responsibilities and job description for the 3D Animation & CAD Teacher position at Uwharrie Charter Academy?
About Uwharrie Charter Academy
At Uwharrie Charter Academy, we provide a rigorous, project-based learning environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and real-world skills. Our mission is to prepare students not just for graduation, but for the evolving demands of higher education and modern industries. We are seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking educator to lead our digital arts and engineering design pathways.
Position Overview
Are you passionate about 3D modeling, game development, and computer assisted design? UCA is looking for a 3D Animation and Computer Assisted Design (CAD) Teacher to guide our high school students through the exciting worlds of digital creation, manufacturing design, and game development.
This role goes beyond traditional lecturing. You will run a hands-on, lab-based classroom focusing on career readiness, equipping students with the portfolio pieces and industry-recognized certifications they need to jump straight into the workforce or advanced degree programs.
Key Responsibilities
- Curriculum & Instruction: Deliver engaging, project-based lessons in 3D animation, game design concepts, and mechanical/architectural CAD drafting.
- Industry Certification Preparation: Prepare and guide students toward earning key industry certifications (such as Autodesk Maya, Autodesk Inventor/AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Unity).
- Hands-on Lab Management: Oversee the classroom MakerSpace/Lab, incorporating 3D printers into the design workflow so students can bring their CAD models to life.
- Career Readiness & Mentorship: Help students build professional digital portfolios, cultivate soft skills (collaboration, project management, giving/receiving critique), and explore tech-industry career paths.
- Community & Industry Engagement: Stay current on industry trends and maintain relationships with local businesses or advisory boards to provide students with real-world context and potential internship pathways.
Qualifications & Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or combination of certifications and relevant work experience.
- Eligibility for, or current possession of, a North Carolina Career & Technical Education (CTE) teaching license (Trade & Industrial Education or Instructional Technology).
- Note: UCA welcomes industry professionals! If you have extensive industry experience but do not hold a teaching license, we can assist you in navigating the residency licensure pathway.
Technical Expertise:
- Proficiency in industry-standard 3D animation/modeling software.
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Fusion 360).
- Familiarity with game design engines (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine) and basic game logic.
- Experience operating and troubleshooting 3D printers.
Preferred Attributes:
- Prior experience teaching or training high school-aged youth.
- Hold one or more relevant industry certifications.
- A portfolio of professional or personal work demonstrating mastery of animation, game design, or engineering design.
Benefits & Culture
- Competitive charter school salary scale commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package
- A highly supportive, collaborative, and innovative school culture.
- Access to modern lab equipment, software licenses, and professional development opportunities.