CTE Aviation Teacher

Job Description

Job Title:

CTE Aviation Teacher

Location:

Prairie Hills Junior High School

Employment Type:

Full Time

Work Days: 10‑month position

Reports to:

Building Principal

Closing Date: 07/31/2025

The CTE Aviation Teacher will provide students in grades 6–8 with a foundational understanding of aviation, aeronautics, and aerospace science through hands‑on, project‑based instruction. The program introduces students to aviation concepts, flight theory, aerodynamics, aircraft systems, and career pathways within the aviation industry. The teacher will design and implement curriculum aligned with Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Career and Technical Education standards to prepare students for future success in high school CTE programs and postsecondary opportunities.

The ideal candidate will inspire curiosity and foster problem‑solving, innovation, and teamwork through engaging classroom and lab‑based instruction.

• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification(s) in primary area of training is a plus
• Eligible to receive an ISBE Professional Education License (PEL) in Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology, and Trades (certificate must be in place prior to teaching) or
• Eligible to receive ISBE Educator License with Stipulations (CIP(CTE)) license in Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics (license must be in place prior to teaching)
• Minimum Bachelor’s Degree
• Minimum 2,000–6,000 hours (3 years full‑time) industry experience, e.g.
• First‑Aid Instructor Certification
• CPR Instructor Certification
• Prior teaching experience
• Excellent planning, organization, written and verbal communication skills
• High‑level problem‑solving skills
• Computer literacy and familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite
• Team and detail oriented

• Minimum of two years of industry‑related experience in automotive repair or technology (required).
• Experience in instructional delivery, training, or mentorship in an educational or corporate setting preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement lesson plans that integrate theory and hands‑on practice.
• Experience maintaining compliance with safety regulations and implementing laboratory best practices.
• Previous involvement in CTE programming, Skills
  
  USA, or similar career‑focused student organizations beneficial.
• Proven record of working effectively with middle or high school students in diverse educational settings.

• Teach aviation courses covering flight theory, aerodynamics, meteorology, navigation, and aircraft systems.
• Integrate hands‑on project‑based learning using flight simulators, drones, and modeling software.
• Develop assessments and measure student progress toward learning objectives.
• Encourage participation in aviation‑related clubs, competitions, and enrichment programs.
• Collaborate with other CTE instructors to create interdisciplinary projects in STEM and engineering.
• Guide students in understanding potential aviation careers, including mechanics, piloting, air traffic control, and aerospace engineering.
• Ensure that all classroom and laboratory practices meet district and FAA safety standards.
• Support the district’s college and career readiness initiatives through aviation instruction.

• Strong technical knowledge of aviation and aerospace systems
• Ability to explain complex aviation concepts in age‑appropriate ways
• Skilled in classroom management, differentiated instruction, and student engagement
• Ability to integrate technology and simulation into curriculum delivery
• Demonstrated problem‑solving and critical thinking skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities
• Capable of fostering teamwork, collaboration, and leadership among students
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects

• Commitment to fostering equity and inclusion in STEM and technical education
• Enthusiasm for inspiring young learners to explore aviation and aerospace careers
• Capacity to build community partnerships with aviation professionals and organizations
• Flexibility and adaptability in managing a dynamic instructional…