Classroom Teaching

Position Overview

Southwest Vermont Regional Technical School District

Job Title:

Land Management, Forestry, Natural Resources and Heavy Equipment Instructor

Location:

Southwest Tech, Bennington, VT School Year:  - Anticipated Start Date of August 20, 2026

Employment Type:

Full Time, 37.5 hours per week (School Year Position-188 Days) Salary:
In accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, $54,045 - $96,129 Final date to receive applications:
Until Filled

The Land Management, Forestry and Heavy Equipment Instructor teaches a two-year Forestry/Heavy Equipment program aligned with the Vermont CTE Forestry, Natural Resources, and Heavy Equipment Standards and Proficiencies. This role includes designing and implementing standards-based classroom, laboratory, and work‑based instruction that prepares students for postsecondary education and entry‑level employment in forest management and conservation, natural resources, and heavy equipment. The teacher collaborates with community partners to strengthen applied learning and support students' transition into further education, training programs, or the workforce.

• Associate's Degree or higher in Forestry, Environmental Science, Ecology, Conservation, Heavy Equipment Operations, Agriculture, Natural Resources, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 4‑6 years of recent field experience in forestry, conservation, heavy equipment operation, land management, arboriculture, logging, or related industries.
• Eligible to obtain or currently hold appropriate Vermont Teacher Licensure.
• Ability to pass a fingerprint‑supported criminal background check and DCF abuse and neglect check.
• Demonstrated knowledge of forest science, conservation practices, and sustainable land management.
• Experience operating and maintaining forestry and heavy equipment safely.
• Ability to supervise students in classroom, shop, and outdoor learning environments.
• Strong organizational, communication, and classroom management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, community partners, sending schools, and industry representatives.
• Commitment to supporting adolescents in both technical and employability skill development.
• CDL licensure or ability to support CDL instruction preferred.

• Deliver instruction in forestry, conservation, land management, and heavy equipment operation aligned with Vermont CTE Proficiencies.
• Develop and maintain a safe, engaging, and industry‑relevant learning environment in classroom, shop, and outdoor settings.
• Adhere to federal, state, local and school safety regulations, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Build positive relationships with high school students while maintaining clear expectations and professional boundaries.
• Support diverse learners through multiple instructional approaches and differentiated instruction.
• Promote professionalism, teamwork, employability skills, and positive student behavior.
• Engage with local businesses, industry partners, and advisory committee members to maintain program relevance and quality.
• Maintain program equipment, instructional materials, and shop/field safety standards.
• Participate in professional development, school initiatives, student recruitment, and advisory committee activities.
• Establish and maintain a culture of safety, respect, accountability, and professionalism.
• Communicate effectively with students, families, sending schools, and support personnel regarding student progress and safety.
• Other duties as assigned by the Superintendent/Director or designee.

• Ability to utilize technology and operate computers and computer programs.
• Experience and knowledge of computerized database systems.
• Use with proficiency forestry tools and heavy equipment.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods on uneven, rough, or natural terrain.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, climb, reach, and work in confined or elevated locations as necessary for instruction and demonstrations.
• Ability to safely lift, carry, push, and pull equipment, tools, materials, and supplies weighing up to 50…