Job Title: Machine Repair Instructor
Department: Workforce & Continuing Education Division
Note to applicants: This role is a temporary, full-time contract position with a fixed duration of one (1) year. Applicants should note that this position is not a permanent, tenure-track, or continuing appointment, and there is no expectation of renewal or conversion to a regular position.
Position Summary
The Machine Repair Instructor is responsible for delivering daily classroom and laboratory instruction in support of a registered apprenticeship program for a large, advanced manufacturing partner. Instruction is aligned with a structured Related Technical Instruction (RTI) curriculum and supported by faculty within the Engineering Systems Technology program.
This role focuses on developing apprentice competencies in applied mathematics, Blueprint Reading and CAD Fundamentals, industrial maintenance, machining, and machine repair through applied, hands-on instruction and theory-based learning.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver daily instructor-led training (classroom and lab-based) to cohorts of approximately 10 apprentices
- Teach across a broad machine repair curriculum, including:
- Applied mathematics (algebra and trigonometry for machine repair)
- Blueprint reading and CAD fundamentals
- Industrial safety, teamwork, and troubleshooting fundamentals
- Electrical systems and industrial circuits
- Mechanical power transmission and machinery systems
- Hydraulics and pneumatics (basic through intermediate control systems)
- Predictive and preventative maintenance practices
- Metallurgy and strength of materials
- Rigging and equipment handling
- Welding processes (MIG, TIG, Stick)
- Machining fundamentals (manual and CNC)
- Industrial HVAC fundamentals
- Facilitate both lecture-based instruction and hands-on lab activities (ranging from 100% classroom to 50/50 split depending on topic)
- Utilize provided curriculum, lesson materials, and training systems to deliver consistent instruction
- Support student learning through:
- Demonstrations and guided lab work
- Troubleshooting exercises and real-world application
- Assessment of student progress and skills competency
- Maintain a safe and effective learning environment aligned with OSHA and institutional standards
- Collaborate with Engineering Systems Technology faculty to ensure alignment with academic and industry expectations
- Maintain training equipment, lab organization, and instructional materials
Minimum Qualifications
- Associate's degree in Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related technical field
- Demonstrated ability to effectively teach technical concepts in a classroom and lab environment
- Demonstrated strong foundational knowledge in mechanical, electrical, and industrial systems
Preferred Qualifications
- Minimum of 3 years of industry experience in manufacturing, industrial maintenance, automation, or related field
- Prior teaching, training, or workforce development experience (formal or informal)
- Industry certifications such as:
- OSHA
- NCCER
- Welding, machining, or OEM certifications
- Experience with AMATROL training systems or similar industrial training equipment
- Demonstrated experience or familiarity that supports effective instruction and student learning in:
- Hydraulics and pneumatics
- Electrical systems and troubleshooting
- Mechanical systems and power transmission
- Applied math (algebra, trigonometry) in an industrial context
Work Environment & Instructional Setting
- Small cohort size (approximately 10 students per class)
- Combination of classroom instruction and hands-on lab training
- Schedule aligned with apprenticeship and employer needs
- Position based within the Workforce & Continuing Education division
Additional Information
- This is a full-time, one-year contracted position
- Curriculum and instructional materials are fully developed and provided
- Instruction is delivered in partnership with a major regional manufacturer and supported by internal academic faculty
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate is a technically strong industry professional who can translate real-world machine repair and maintenance experience into structured, hands-on instruction. This individual is comfortable teaching across multiple disciplines and committed to developing the next generation of skilled maintenance technicians.
About Columbia State Community College:
As Tennessee's first community college (established in 1966), Columbia State is committed to student success both in and out of the classroom, as well as economic and community development in our nine-county service area. Columbia State is a member of the Tennessee Board of Regents.
Columbia State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:
- Vacation and Sick Leave
- 14 paid holidays
- Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
- Retirement plans
- Optional 401K and 403B Deferred Compensation Plans
- Educational benefits for the employee and their spouse and dependents
Columbia State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity or national origin, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations and by Tennessee Board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities.
The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies:
Executive Director of Human Resources
humanresources@columbiastate.edu
1665 Hampshire Pike, Columbia, TN 38401
931-540-2501
