“Superior, comprehensive technical education that changes lives and launches
careers".

 

Position Summary:

Lake Area Technical College is seeking a knowledgeable, hands-on, and student-focused instructor to teach in our Building Trades Technology program with an emphasis on residential construction. The ideal candidate will bring significant experience in homebuilding and general construction practices to help prepare students for careers in carpentry, construction management, and residential building.

 

Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in Building Trades, Construction Management, or related field or a combination of industry credentials and experience that meets Higher Learning Commission requirements.
• Minimum of five (5) years of recent, verifiable experience in residential construction (e.g., framing, siding, roofing, interior/exterior finishes, remodeling, concrete, taping, texturing).
• OSHA 10 or 30-hour certification or willingness to obtain.
• Ability to operate a wide variety of hand and power tools and equipment commonly used in the construction industry.
• Effective communication, organizational, and instructional skills.
• Willingness to work collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, and community partners.
• Prior teaching, training, or mentoring experience a plus.
• Building contractor’s license or journeyman/master carpenter credentials.
• Experience with blueprint reading software or construction management tools.
• Knowledge of South Dakota building codes and permitting processes.
• Commitment to hands-on, project-based learning.

 

Reports To: Department Supervisor of Building Trades, Dean of Academics, Vice President

 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Deliver engaging instruction in residential construction topics including framing, finishing, site preparation, blueprint reading, building codes, estimating, and use of hand/power tools.
• Supervise and instruct students on live-build projects in both lab and on-site environments.
• Develop course materials, lab exercises, and assessments aligned with current industry practices and program outcomes.
• Integrate safety instruction following OSHA and other relevant safety guidelines.
• Maintain accurate records of student performance, attendance, and competencies.
• Collaborate with other faculty and advisory board members to ensure curriculum remains aligned with industry needs.
• Actively participate in professional development, advisory committee meetings, and campus events.
• Support student recruitment, retention, and placement efforts.
• Model professionalism and work ethic values expected in the trades.
• Instruction occurs in both classroom and active construction site settings. Physical demands include standing for extended periods, climbing ladders, lifting heavy materials, and working in varying weather conditions during live builds.
• Other duties as assigned

 

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 186-day contract starting August 2025. Salary and benefits set by the Watertown School Board in accordance with the state post-secondary technical instructor salary formula.