Instructor of Automotive Technology

Title: Instructor of Automotive Technology

Agency: Southwest Virginia Community College

Location: Tazewell - 185

FLSA: Exempt

Hiring Range: Minimum of $52,905 to commensurate with experience and qualifications

Full Time or Part Time: Full Time

Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) offers career-training programs in numerous technical, industrial and medical fields at a reasonable cost, going so far as to even waive tuition for certain eligible students. Located in Richlands, Virginia, Southwest offers associate’s degrees in such fields as business, education, general studies, liberal arts and science. These degrees are primarily intended for students who wish to transfer to a four-year university.

Southwest also has associate degrees that feature programs intended to lead directly to a career in fields such as Nursing, Radiography and Administration of Justice. Southwest Virginia Community College is accepting applications for a full‑time Instructor of Automotive Technology to support an ARC POWER Grant‑funded workforce training initiative. This is a three‑year, full‑time, hybrid faculty credit/non‑credit, 9‑Month, grant‑funded position designed to enhance career pathways and provide students with technical skills and industry‑recognized credentials needed for success in today’s evolving automotive industry.

The Instructor of Automotive Technology will provide high-quality instruction in automotive systems, diagnostics, and repair within both classroom and hands‑on lab environments. This position will focus on integrating nationally recognized, third‑party certifications into the curriculum while preparing students for careers in traditional and emerging automotive technologies.

The instructor will teach courses within Career Studies Certificate programs, including:

• Automotive Diagnostics and Repair
• Advanced Automotive Technology
• Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Fundamentals

• Teach automotive technology courses in classroom, lab, and shop settings
• Deliver hands‑on, competency‑based instruction emphasizing diagnostics, repair, and safety
• Incorporate current automotive technologies, including hybrid and electric vehicle systems
• Apply innovative teaching strategies to engage diverse learners

• Integrate ASE and other nationally recognized third‑party certifications into program curriculum
• Develop, revise, and maintain course content aligned with current industry standards
• Ensure students are well‑prepared for certification testing and employment
• Support ongoing program improvement and adoption of emerging automotive technologies

• Advise students on academic progress, certification pathways, and career opportunities
• Provide mentoring and support to improve retention and completion rates
• Assist students in preparing for certification exams and workforce entry

• Participate in recruitment activities, including career fairs, high school visits, and community outreach
• Promote program offerings and career opportunities in automotive technology
• Support enrollment and student onboarding initiatives

• Partner with industry employers to align curriculum with workforce needs
• Support development of internships, apprenticeships, and job placement opportunities
• Engage in college committees, professional development, and program initiatives

This is a restricted position. Continued employment in this role is contingent upon funding availability and the needs of the College. Position is not eligible for severance benefits under state policy. Grant term is three (3) years. Instruction will primarily occur on Southwest's main campus; however, the instructor may also teach related courses at off‑campus locations as needed.

A one‑year probationary period is required for both new hires and transfers.

• ASE Technician certifications in Suspension and Steering (A4), Brakes (A5), and Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6)
• Associate degree in Automotive Technology or closely related field (or equivalent combination of education and industry experience)
• Five years industry experience in automotive diagnostics and repair
• Strong communication, organizational, and instructional skills
• Relevant industry certifications (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe)

• ASE Master Technician certification
• Experience working on all make and models of vehicles
• Experience with or interest in hybrid and electric vehicle systems
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field
• Teaching or workforce training experience
  
  Experience integrating certification standards into curriculum