Construction Vocational Instructor

Join to apply for the Construction Vocational Instructor role at Just A Start
. 4 days ago – Be among the first 25 applicants.

Do you enjoy working with youth of all backgrounds, abilities, and needs? Do you have a desire to pass along what you’ve learned in the construction industry to young people considering a career in the trades? Would you enjoy project planning and leading a team of trainees to complete new build and renovation projects throughout the Boston Metro North area?

Just A Start’s mission is to promote equity by creating access to stable housing and building pathways to economic opportunity. Founded in 1994, Youth Build Just A Start is a comprehensive youth academic and workforce development program that empowers low‑income, out‑of‑school youth (ages 16‑24) to reclaim their education, build their careers, and become leaders in their communities.

This is a 37.5 hour per week in‑office position.

• Location:
  
  430 Rindge Ave., Cambridge, MA 02140
• Work Hours:
  
  8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Monday – Friday)
• Compensation: $65,000 – $70,000 annual salary plus benefits

• Project Coordination and Completion
  • Support the Director of Youth Program Pathways to meet all MOU deliverables, develop realistic budgets, scopes and timelines, and communicate changes to work plans in a timely manner.
  • Work collaboratively with Construction Team members to research, identify, and execute new construction projects, field trips, and guest speaker engagements.
  • Stay in constant communication with General Contractors and external partners to ensure that projects are completed on time and to professional quality standards in conformance with contracts and MOUs.
  • Develop and maintain partnerships (e.g. Housing Authorities, NGOs, and JAS Real Estate) that lead to exceptional trainee outcomes and completion of funder and contractual obligations.
• Hands‑On and Classroom Training
  • Maintain an organized and safe work environment for trainees in the Youth Build Woodshop and community worksites.
  • Clearly communicate policies and procedures to trainees, enforcing expectations and standards at all times.
  • Facilitate hands‑on learning experiences that prepare students to earn their Pre‑Apprenticeship Certification Training (PACT) and OSHA 10 – Construction credentials.
  • Teach basic carpentry and construction training skills, including (but not limited to):
    • framing and sheathing
    • painting, patching, drywall, and insulation
    • stairwork, fencing and deck work
    • rough demolition, carpet removal, and sub‑floor work
    • installing pre‑fabricated cabinets, exterior windows, bathroom, and kitchen hardware
  • Work closely with Case Management and Counseling to identify both positive and concerning trainee behaviors, and respond in accordance with trauma‑informed and positive youth development best practices.
  • Coordinate with the Youth Employment Specialist to provide career mentorship and guidance to construction trainees, leading to successful employment and training placements.
• Data Collection and Project Administration
  • Track and record student progress and achievements in Salesforce, PACT Litmos, and other internal data systems.
  • Complete quarterly and funder‑specific narrative and outcomes‑focused grant reports.
  • Maintain organized records of lesson plans, class assignments, and hands‑on activities.
  • Ensure that project management spreadsheets are correct and up‑to‑date.

• High school diploma or equivalency credential.
• A minimum of 3‑5 years of professional construction experience, or equivalent.
• Additional experience in electrical, HVAC, or plumbing trades desirable, not required.
• Ability to connect and mentor young people from a variety of backgrounds.
• Demonstrates a growth mindset, student‑centered outlook, and reliable work ethic.
• Equity‑centered professional with a familiarity of the systemic barriers that opportunity youth may face.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and organizational skills.
• A valid driver’s license and clean driving record is required for transporting students, materials, and equipment to and from worksites.
• Acceptable CORI/SORI.
• Familiarity with Google…