Position Overview: Lake Area Technical College is seeking an industry-experienced, student-centered, self-starting Energy Instructor to teach within the Energy Technology and Energy Operations (Plant Operations) programs. This position prepares students for high-demand careers as plant maintenance and plant operations technicians in the energy-producing and process industries.

Graduates of these programs work in power generation and process environments such as wind, coal, hydro, nuclear, ethanol, biodiesel, agricultural by-product facilities, oil refineries, and petroleum pipeline operations. The instructor will deliver both technical theory and intensive hands-on instruction that equips students to maintain, repair, monitor, and operate complex plant systems safely and efficiently.

Qualifications:

• Associate degree or higher in Energy Systems, Power Plant Technology, Industrial Maintenance, Mechanical Technology, Electrical Technology, or related field

• Minimum of 3–5 years of recent industry experience in one or more of the following:
• Power plant operations
• Process plant operations (ethanol, refinery, biodiesel, etc.)
• Industrial or plant maintenance
• Energy production or distribution
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, plant operations, or industrial maintenance practices.
• Ability to teach hands-on technical skills in lab and simulated plant environments.
• Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
• Basic computer proficiency and ability to use learning management systems.
• Commitment to student success and technical education.
• Teaching, training, or mentoring experience.
• Experience with vibration analysis, rotating equipment, or reliability programs.
• Experience with plant instrumentation, controls, or process monitoring systems.
• Industry certifications a plus. (OSHA, NCCER, maintenance or operations credentials).
• Experience working with advisory boards or industry partnerships.
• Ability to stand for extended periods in lab environments.
• Ability to lift and move tools, components, and training equipment typical of industrial settings.
• Ability to safely demonstrate use of mechanical and plant-related equipment.
• Combination of classroom, laboratory, and plant-simulation settings.
• Occasional industry site visits, outreach events, or student activities.
• May include evening events or recruitment activities.

Reports to:  Energy Department Supervisor, Dean of Academics, Vice President

 

Program Overview:

Energy Technology (Plant Maintenance)

This program prepares technicians to maintain and repair production equipment in energy and process plants. Instruction includes:

• Mechanical maintenance, repair, and overhaul
• Precision alignment techniques
• Metallurgy fundamentals
• Pneumatics and hydraulics
• Thermodynamics and combustion systems
• Vibration analysis and dynamic balancing
• Preventive and predictive maintenance practices
• Industrial safety and reliability practices

Energy Operations (Plant Operations)

This program prepares technicians to operate and monitor power and process plant systems. Instruction includes:

• Monitoring and controlling plant production systems
• Understanding power and process plant operations
• Identifying, isolating, and troubleshooting process problems
• Plant systems, instrumentation, and controls
• Operational safety and regulatory compliance
• Process flow systems and equipment functionality

Responsibilities:

• Deliver classroom, lab, and hands-on instruction in Energy Technology and Energy Operations courses.
• Teach technical theory and practical skills aligned with plant maintenance and plant operations careers.
• Integrate real-world industry scenarios into instruction.
• Develop and maintain syllabi, lesson plans, assessments, and instructional materials.
• Evaluate student performance and provide timely, constructive feedback.
• Maintain accurate student records, grades, and competency documentation.
• Maintain safe, organized, and industry-relevant lab and training environments.
• Oversee proper use, maintenance, and inventory of tools, mechanical systems, training equipment, and plant simulation systems.
• Enforce OSHA and college safety procedures.
• Advise and mentor students on academic progress, career pathways, and industry expectations.
• Emphasize professionalism, safety culture, teamwork, and strong work ethic.
• Support recruitment, retention, and student success initiatives.
• Assist in developing and updating curriculum to meet evolving industry needs.
• Work with program advisory committees and industry partners to maintain program relevance.
• Participate in any accreditation, assessment, and program review processes.
• Stay current in plant maintenance, operations technology, and energy industry trends.

• Build and maintain relationships with energy producers, utilities, and process industry employers.
• Support student internships and job placement.
• Participate in college committees, professional development, outreach, and recruitment events.

 

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Salary and benefits set by the Watertown School District.

 

SALARY: 186-day contract. Salary and benefits set by the Watertown Board of Education in accordance with the state post-secondary salary formula.

Wage Range: $63,275 - $88,586

Competitive benefits package including health insurance, dental insurance, and South Dakota Retirement System through the Watertown School District.