1

Automotive Technology Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Continuous Description Snow College is seeking an energetic and industry-focused Automotive Technology Instructor to join the Transportation Technology Department at the Richfield Campus. This ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automotive Technology Instructor information

See salary details

$41K

$60.2K

$81.5K

How much do automotive technology instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive technology instructor in the United States is $60,237.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $63,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Technology Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Technology Instructor, you need a deep understanding of automotive systems, diagnostic procedures, and repair techniques, typically supported by industry certifications (such as ASE) and teaching credentials. Familiarity with automotive diagnostic software, shop equipment, and learning management systems is essential for effective instruction. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to motivate and guide students are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure instructors can deliver up-to-date, practical training that prepares students for success in the evolving automotive industry.

What does an Automotive Technology Instructor do?

An Automotive Technology Instructor teaches students the principles and skills needed to diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles. They develop lesson plans, provide hands-on training with automotive tools and equipment, and ensure students understand both the technical and safety aspects of automotive work. Instructors also stay updated with the latest automotive technologies and industry standards to prepare students for certification exams and successful careers in the automotive field.

How do Automotive Technology Instructors typically balance hands-on shop instruction with classroom-based teaching?

Automotive Technology Instructors usually divide their time between classroom lectures and practical sessions in the shop. They integrate theoretical concepts with real-world demonstrations to help students understand both the 'why' and 'how' of automotive repair. Planning lessons that align with industry standards and safety protocols is essential, and instructors often collaborate with colleagues and local industry partners to keep course content current. Balancing instructional methods ensures that students gain both the technical knowledge and hands-on skills required for entry-level automotive roles.

What is the difference between Automotive Technology Instructor vs Automotive Service Technician?

AspectAutomotive Technology InstructorAutomotive Service Technician
CredentialsTypically requires ASE certifications, teaching credentials, and industry experienceASE certifications often required; high school diploma or equivalent needed
Work EnvironmentClassroom, lab, and workshop settings in educational institutionsRepair shops, dealerships, or service centers
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, vocational schools, community collegesAutomotive repair and maintenance industry
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for training, certification, and teaching rolesCompared for hands-on repair skills and industry experience

The main difference is that an Automotive Technology Instructor focuses on teaching students in educational settings, requiring teaching credentials and industry experience, while an Automotive Service Technician performs hands-on vehicle repairs in repair shops or dealerships. Both roles require ASE certifications, but their work environments and primary responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Automotive Technology Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Technology Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Technology Instructor job openings:
What states have the most Automotive Technology Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Technology Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Automotive Technology Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,237 per year, or $29 per hour.

Automotive Technology Instructor

Southeast Technical College

Sioux Falls, SD • On-site

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Drive the future of automotive careers at Southeast Technical College. As an Automotive Technology Instructor, you’ll bring your real-world expertise to life, delivering hands-on, career-focused training that prepares students to succeed from day one. You’ll mentor the next generation of technicians, design engaging learning experiences, and collaborate with industry partners to keep the program cutting-edge. Join a team committed to excellence and make a lasting impact on students and the workforce. For more information regarding this position, please contact the hiring manager, Jason Merritt, at 605-367-7671.
  • Academic Excellence & Instructional Effectiveness
    1. Deliver high-quality, industry-aligned instruction that prepares students to meet program outcomes, workforce expectations, and licensure requirements.
    2. Develop, update, and deliver curriculum and instructional materials including syllabi, labs, and hands-on activities that reflect current industry standards and support student skill development.
    3. Use effective instructional strategies and technologies to promote student engagement and achievement.
    4. Design, administer, and evaluate assessments to measure learning and technical competency, using results and student feedback to improve instruction and curriculum.
    5. Maintain accurate academic records, grading, and documentation in compliance with institutional and accreditation requirements.
  • Service to Program and Institution
    1. Contribute to program success through student recruitment, advising, retention initiatives, and outreach activities.
    2. Participate in program development, accreditation activities, advisory committees, and continuous improvement processes.
    3. Serve on institutional committees, workgroups, or task forces as assigned.
    4. Collaborate with colleagues across departments to support interdisciplinary learning, student success initiatives, and institutional priorities.
    5. Build and maintain partnerships with industry, K-12 schools, community organizations, and employers to enhance program visibility and workforce alignment.
  • Professional Development & Industry Engagement
    1. Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain technical expertise, instructional effectiveness, and industry credentials as required by the program.
    2. Participate in workshops, conferences, certifications, trainings, or coursework relevant to teaching, technology, and the instructor’s discipline.
    3. Apply new knowledge, skills, and best practices to instruction, curriculum, and program improvement.
  • Institutional Values & Professional Conduct
    1. Demonstrate Southeast Technical College’s Core Values through instructional practices, service, and professional interactions.
    2. Comply with college policies, accreditation requirements, safety standards, and ethical guidelines.
  • Program-specific Functions
    1. Deliver lectures, lessons, and demonstrations on current Automotive theories, techniques, and industry practices. 
    2. Create, develop, and monitor industry-based lab experiences for students in a shop environment. 
    3. Inventory, maintain, and advise on equipment and technology for the lab.
    4. Provide academic advising to students with a focus on retention and personal development.  
    5. Participate in the finance processes of the organization. This includes purchase and retirement of equipment and supplies; participation in the program’s annual budget process; and ensure that budget funds are utilized responsibly according to STCs financial policies. 
    6. Provide guidance and mentor other department employees including specialists, adjunct instructors, work-study, or other part-time staff.
    7. Participate in the documentation, maintaining of materials, and site visits for the program’s ASEEF accreditation.

  • Education: Associate’s or Diploma in Automotive Technology or related field with minimum work experience required. Bachelors preferred
  • Experience: Combination of degree and work experience required. (Minimum of 2 years with Bachelor’s, 4 years with AAS, 5 years with diploma).
  • Other requirements:
    1. Computer skills: Ability to use email systems, word processing, and spreadsheet software
    2. Communication: ability to actively listen and to effectively communicate with others through written and oral communication
    3. Leadership: ability to make decisions, delegate tasks, be innovative, negotiate, problem solve, build teams through coaching and development, resolve conflicts, hold yourself and other accountable, and work under pressure. 

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES: ASE Certification or ability to obtain Ase certification in Electrical, Engine performance(L1), and HVAC is required. Master Certification preferred.
Work is performed primarily in a classroom, a lab, and an office setting, with occasional travel for site visits/field trips, professional development, and student supervision.

PI6f8af8bd7e65-25405-40639020