Building Trades Instructor

Position Title:Building Trades Instructor
Department:Workforce Development
Reports To:Director of Workforce Development
Employment Type:Part-Time / Evening Cohort
Program Length:10 Weeks (8 hours per week; 2 evenings per week)
Location:Sullivan BOCES, 52 Ferndale Loomis Rd., Liberty, NY 12754

SUNY Sullivan Workforce Development is seeking a skilled, hands-on Construction Technology Instructor to deliver a 10-week practical training program designed to prepare adult learners for immediate employment in residential and light commercial construction in the Hudson Valley and Sullivan County region. The instructor will teach foundational construction skills, including the use of tools and safety, framing, interior/exterior systems, commercial specialties, concrete, building codes, and jobsite readiness.

The ideal candidate possesses real-world construction experience, enjoys teaching adult learners, and is dedicated to helping students develop job-ready skills for local employers.

Deliver instruction aligned with the 10-unit Construction Technology curriculum, including:

• Tools & safety training (OSHA-based principles)
• Material identification and construction drawings
• Concrete forms and basic foundation concepts
• Wood framing (walls, doors, windows)
• Drywall installation and finishing
• Flooring, cabinets, interior specialty installations
• Exterior projects such as decks, stairs
• Building codes, inspections, and jobsite expectations
• Employability skills and capstone project

Lead hands-on shop activities, demonstrations, and safety briefings.

Ensure proper use, maintenance, and storage of program tools, materials, and equipment.

Foster a supportive environment for adult learners with varying skill levels.

Provide individualized coaching as needed to build tool proficiency and confidence.

Evaluate student performance based on attendance, participation, safety, and skills assessments.

Assist with setup and breakdown of training materials for each session.

Maintain a safe learning environment and enforce SUNY Sullivan and OSHA-aligned safety practices.

Coordinate with Workforce Development staff to track student progress, attendance, and outcomes.

Participate in instructor meetings, curriculum updates, and quality improvement activities.

Provide input on materials, equipment, and supply needs (including dismantling the capstone build after each cohort).

Minimum 5 years of experience in residential or commercial construction, carpentry, remodeling, or building maintenance OR equivalent trade experience.

Ability to demonstrate proper and safe use of hand tools, power tools, ladders, and equipment.

Strong knowledge of framing, drywall, flooring, decks, stair layout, commercial installations, and jobsite safety.

Strong communication skills with the ability to train adult learners.

Commitment to maintaining a safe working and learning environment.

Prior teaching, training, or supervisory experience.

Experience with OSHA safety training or site supervision.

Knowledge of local Hudson Valley/Sullivan County employer needs.

Experience in estimating materials and managing small-scale projects.

Hands-on shop environment with physical activity such as lifting (up to 50 lbs), bending, and standing for extended periods.

Evening schedule (typically 2 evenings per week, 4 hours per night).

Use of PPE and adherence to all safety protocols required.

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. Hourly rate to be determined by SUNY Sullivan Workforce Development based on instructor background and program enrollment $40-50 per hour.

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