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Figure Drawing Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Functional and Supervisory Relationships Reports to the figure drawing instructor. Required Qualifications Previous figure drawing model experience. Must be 18 years of age or older. Must be ...

Models are scheduled for three-hour nude figure drawing sessions throughout the semester as needed by the instructor. Each class is 3 hours long -- where you are expected to hold poses from anywhere ...

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Figure Drawing Instructor information

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$14

$32

$58

How much do figure drawing instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for figure drawing instructor in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a figure drawing instructor do?

A Figure Drawing Instructor teaches students how to draw the human form, often using live models to help learners understand anatomy, proportion, and gesture. They provide guidance on drawing techniques, materials, observation skills, and artistic expression. The instructor may work in art schools, community classes, or workshops and tailor lessons for beginners or advanced students. Their goal is to help students improve both technical accuracy and creative interpretation in figure drawing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a figure drawing instructor?

To thrive as a Figure Drawing Instructor, you need advanced drawing skills, in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, and experience in art education, often supported by a degree in fine arts or a related field. Familiarity with traditional drawing materials, digital illustration platforms, and classroom management tools is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to inspire creativity are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively teaching diverse students, fostering artistic growth, and maintaining a productive learning environment.

What are some common challenges figure drawing instructors face when teaching students with varying skill levels?

Figure Drawing Instructors often encounter classes with a wide range of student abilities, from beginners to advanced artists. Balancing instruction to ensure that all students are both challenged and supported can be demanding. Instructors typically address this by offering tailored feedback, providing foundational exercises for newcomers, and advanced critiques or techniques for more experienced students. This approach fosters an inclusive learning environment where everyone can progress, but it requires strong classroom management and adaptability.

What is the difference between Figure Drawing Instructor vs Art Teacher?

AspectFigure Drawing InstructorArt Teacher
CredentialsTypically requires art degrees or certifications, portfolio, teaching experienceRequires education credentials, often state certification for K-12 teaching
Work EnvironmentArt studios, community colleges, private classesSchools, community centers, art programs
Industry UsageSpecializes in figure drawing, anatomy, life modelsBroader art education including various mediums and techniques

While both roles involve teaching art, a Figure Drawing Instructor focuses specifically on teaching anatomy and life drawing skills, often in specialized settings. An Art Teacher has a broader scope, covering multiple art forms and working primarily in educational institutions. The choice depends on whether the focus is on specialized figure drawing or general art education.

What cities are hiring for Figure Drawing Instructor jobs?

Cities with the most Figure Drawing Instructor job openings:

What states have the most Figure Drawing Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Figure Drawing Instructor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Figure Drawing Instructor jobs?

For Figure Drawing Instructor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Figure Drawing Instructor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Full Time, 77% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,678 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Figure Drawing Model

Cortland, NY • On-site

SUNY Cortland
Spectator Sports • 11 - 50 employees

$25/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Contractor, Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Budget Title
INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT ASSISTANT
Campus Title
Figure Drawing Model
School/Division
Academic Affairs, Division of
Department
Art & Art History
Staff Sub-Type
Staff & Administration
Salary Level
SL1
Salary Range
$25/Hr
Salary Determination
Starting salary rates are based on multiples factors which may include the position's major responsibilities, the applicant's background including education, work experience, and key competencies, the university's strategic priorities, internal peer equity and external market analyses, applicable federal, state, and local laws and negotiated labor contracts.
Position Effort
Part-Time (enter FTE below)
If Part-Time, enter FTE:
12
Is this a temporary position?
Yes
If Temporary, enter End Date:
Position Summary
SUNY Cortland is accepting applications a Figure Drawing Model for a drawing course. Two to five hours per week.
What makes SUNY Cortland a great place to work?
• Our positions provide predictable salary progressions, and many offer permanency.
• Generous benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, various retirement program options, paid family leave and/or parental leaves, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, long term disability and tuition reimbursement.
• SUNY Cortland prioritizes work-life balance and well-being in all forms. The university's state-of-the-art Student Life Center is free for employees to use, with membership options for families. Alternate work schedules are available with a supervisor's approval.
• Professional development opportunities exist through training, continuing education programs, tuition reimbursement and conference travel, based on funding.
• Cortland County and surrounding areas offer easy access to arts, entertainment, outdoor recreation and much more. Experience Cortland dives deep into the region's offerings
Major Responsibilities
Successful candidate will pose and provide a full range of traditional life drawing poses, (from gestures to poses sustained for a minimum of 20 minutes) as required by the instructor and demonstrate professional behavior in an educational environment working with students and faculty.
Functional and Supervisory Relationships
Reports to the figure drawing instructor.
Required Qualifications
Previous figure drawing model experience.
Must be 18 years of age or older.
Must be professional in an educational environment working with students and faculty.
Model both fully nude and clothed based on assignment.
Be able to take instruction.
Must be punctual and reliable.
Preferred Qualifications
All body types are needed and encouraged to apply.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
About the University
A top public university of approximately 6,600 students located in the geographic center of New York State, SUNY Cortland provides accessible, affordable education to students from across the U.S. body. One of 13 comprehensive universities in the State University of New York system, SUNY Cortland prides itself on its rigorous undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts, sciences, education, and professional studies. For more than 150 years, SUNY Cortland has provided unmistakable value for students seeking a well-rounded academic, athletic, and social experience. The University ranks among the top campuses in the nation on Money magazine's "Best Colleges for Your Money List," fields a powerhouse Division III athletics program and boasts an impressive network of alumni making a difference in education, business, government, fitness, medicine and many other fields.
EEO Statement
The State University of New York at Cortland is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity/Americans with Disabilities Act (AA/EEO/ADA) employer. The university actively seeks applications from women, veterans, individuals with a disability, members of underrepresented groups or anyone that would enrich the diversity of the university.
Job Close Date
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S23031
Review Start Date
Open Until Filled
Quick Link for Direct Access to Posting
https://jobs.cortland.edu/postings/8031