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Gifted Instructor Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

(Pool) ACADEMY Summer Camp

Ashland, OR · On-site

$15.50 - $40/hr

On-campus All staff, with the exception of Instructors, are required to reside in on-campus ... and gifted education, ability to work with another Co-Director to set goals and objectives for ...

Gifted Instructor information

What is a gifted instructor?

Gifted Instructors are educators who specialize in teaching students identified as gifted or talented. They design and implement advanced curricula, create challenging learning experiences, and adapt teaching methods to meet the unique needs of gifted students. In addition to academic instruction, they often focus on nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Gifted Instructors may work in specialized programs within schools, separate gifted education classrooms, or provide enrichment activities outside the regular curriculum.

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

To thrive as a Gifted Instructor, you need a strong background in education (often with a teaching license) and expertise in differentiated instruction techniques for high-ability students. Familiarity with advanced curriculum design, assessment tools, and educational technology is commonly required. Creativity, patience, and strong communication skills help foster intellectual curiosity and address diverse learning needs. These competencies are vital to effectively challenge gifted students and support their academic and social-emotional development.

What are some common challenges faced by gifted instructors when differentiating instruction for high-ability students?

Gifted Instructors often encounter challenges such as balancing the need to provide appropriate academic rigor while ensuring that students remain engaged and emotionally supported. Differentiating instruction requires careful planning to offer enrichment and acceleration without overwhelming students or creating gaps in foundational knowledge. Additionally, Gifted Instructors may need to coordinate with general education teachers and parents to align learning goals and support social-emotional development, as gifted students can have unique needs in these areas.

What is the difference between Gifted Instructor vs Special Education Teacher?

AspectGifted InstructorSpecial Education Teacher
Required CredentialsTeaching certification, possibly gifted education endorsementSpecial education certification, possibly additional endorsements
Work EnvironmentGifted programs, advanced classrooms, enrichment settingsInclusive classrooms, resource rooms, special needs settings
Employer & Industry UsageSchools with gifted programs, private and public schoolsPublic and private schools, special education agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in gifted educationUnderstanding roles in special education

Gifted Instructors focus on challenging gifted students with advanced curriculum, while Special Education Teachers support students with diverse learning needs. Both roles require teaching credentials but serve different student populations and educational goals.

Are gifted instructors in demand?

Gifted instructors are in demand in educational settings that focus on advanced learners, such as gifted and talented programs, private tutoring, and specialized schools. Their expertise in differentiating instruction and engaging high-ability students makes them valuable, especially as schools seek to meet diverse student needs. Demand can vary by region and the availability of qualified professionals with relevant certifications or advanced degrees.

How do I become a gifted instructor?

To become a gifted instructor, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in education, psychology, or a related field, along with experience working with gifted students. Certification or specialized training in gifted education can enhance qualifications, and strong communication, creativity, and assessment skills are important for success in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Gifted Instructor jobs in Oregon?

For Gifted Instructor jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Gifted Instructor jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Gifted Instructor jobs in Oregon are:

Infographic showing various Gifted Instructor job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, and 59% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

(Pool) ACADEMY Summer Camp

Sou

Ashland, OR • On-site

$15.50 - $40/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Pooled Recruitment: By applying to this pool, applicants are not applying for a specific position. By applying, qualified applicants will be considered for Temporary Summer Camp appointments that may become available at Southern Oregon University on an as-needed, part-time, and limited-duration basis.
Applications will be kept on file and qualified applicants contacted by the respective hiring department for an interview. Applicants may withdraw their application from the pool at any time. This pool may be refreshed annually and interested applicants must reapply for continued consideration.
For inquiries and additional information, please contact Human Resource Services via email at hrs@sou.edu or call 541-552-8553.
_____________________
Date application must be received for priority consideration by: March 20, 2026
Anticipated Appointment Begin Date: May 15, 2026
Closing Date or if blank, Open Until Filled:
Job Family Group: Administrative and Professional
Division/Department: Outreach and Engagement
Compensation Range (varies by position): $15.50 - $40.00 per hour depending upon roles and responsibilities
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Appointment Basis: Temporary/Short-Term
Time Type: Part-time
Benefits Eligible: No
Renewable/Non-renewable/Grants/Limited Duration: Non-renewable/Limited Duration
These are short-term (one to two week) assignments during the summer
This position must possess and maintain a current, valid Driver's License: A license may be required depending upon the assignment
This position is designated as a critical, security-sensitive, or safety-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a Criminal Background Check: Yes
Lead Work/Supervisory Responsibilities: Potentially, depending upon the assignment
Remote Work Type: On-campus
All staff, with the exception of Instructors, are required to reside in on-campus dormitories for the duration of camp and sleep in their assigned rooms each night.
Worker Status: Must be able to legally work in the United States without visa sponsorship

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT:

  • Each applicant is required to provide (as attachments to the online application) the following supplemental documents: (1) a letter providing some detail of the applicant's qualifications and interest in the position; and (2) current resume/CV. - PLEASE NOTE - during the application process, you will be prompted to attach these documents in the area titled "Resume." Please either combine ALL documents into ONE attachment, OR upload each item separately in this section. Failure to upload ALL of the required documents may disqualify application from consideration.
  • For inquiries and additional information, please contact Human Resource Services via email at hrs@sou.edu or by phone at (541)552-8553.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Academy positions will vary. Position summaries are as follows:

ACADEMY CO-DIRECTOR:

Organized, energetic, solid decision-making skills, positive attitude, people skills, ability to speak and be dynamic in front of a large group, teaching skills, administrative skills, computer skills, current knowledge of educational trends especially in talented and gifted education, ability to work with another Co-Director to set goals and objectives for lessons, workshops and the week as a whole, ability to share the load of managing 200+ students at one time. Dependable, creative, charismatic, good with people, ability to diplomatically deal with parents, good communicator, flexible, able to make fulltime commitment during ACADEMY.


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience working with middle and high school students.
  • Experience leading teams using effective communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to set priorities and coordinate multiple assignments with fluctuating and time-sensitive deadlines.
  • Ability to proactively assess camp operations and anticipate potential needs.
  • Co-Directors should have attained a Bachelor's Degree or higher.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Previous experience as a camp organizer, coordinator, or middle school teaching experience, either in schools or as a camp counselor/instructor/or other leadership position.
  • Basic First Aid training
  • CPR training

DUTIES:

(80%) Duties Include:

  • Oversee and work with ACADEMY team to develop a theme and implement all ACADEMY activities, classes and workshops.
  • Lead opening and closing sessions of camp, and all workshops.
  • Oversee planning, preparation and implementation of hands-on activities and guest speakers for workshops.
  • Prepare for ACADEMY welcome, setting expectations and ground rules for the week.

(20%) Duties Include:

  • Working with SOU Youth Programs takes the lead on training staff regarding duties, responsibilities, and procedures for the week.
  • Including the preparation for potential emergencies, and staff training and planning in preparation for emergency situations.

______________________________________________________________________________

ACADEMY HEAD RESIDENT
Head resident must be enthusiastic, enjoy working with youth, have leadership abilities and a strong sense of how to work as a team member. This position requires time management and organization skills, and the ability to prioritize and problem-solve in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment. The Head Resident must model responsible behavior including punctuality, appropriate attire, focus on the task at hand, and diffusion of drama. People skills, ability to oversee college students and a strong work ethic are core components of this position.


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience working with middle and high school students.
  • Experience leading teams using effective communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to set own priorities and coordinate multiple assignments with fluctuating and time sensitiveness deadline.
  • Ability to proactively assess camp operations and anticipate potential needs.
  • Head Residents should have completed at least two years of college and should be currently pursuing or have attained a college degree.
  • Head residents must have at least one year of previous experience as an ACADEMY Senior Counselor.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Basic First Aid training
  • CPR training

(80%) Duties Include:

  • Coordinate and equitably divide Head Resident duties between both Head Residents.
  • Supervise Senior Counseling staff and act as a role model and mentor.
  • Manage health and wellness initiatives, including the dispensing of medication and tracking of emergencies and health incidents at camp.

(20%) Duties Include:

  • Attend required staff meetings and training sessions. You may be asked to lead some of the staff training sessions.
  • Keep constant awareness of the flow of camp activities, and proactively support where needed.

______________________________________________________________________________

ACADEMY SENIOR COUNSELORS:
Senior Counselors must be enthusiastic, high-energy, responsible, mature, and emotionally stable individuals who enjoy working with youth. Candidates should have leadership abilities and a strong sense of how to work as a team member. The Senior Counselor should be an outstanding role model for participants. Counselors must model responsible behavior including punctuality, appropriate attire and good personal hygiene, positive attitude, compassion, wise decision-making, and intellectual curiosity. Senior Counselors should establish good relationships with students by initiating conversations and activities, conducting living group meetings, and ensuring that all students feel included and welcomed.


Each Senior Counselor will be assigned to supervise 8-12 students during those times when students are not involved in classes. The time commitment for the job is considerable. Students will range in age from 9-13 years; depending on the student, there may be a need for high-level supervision. Senior Counselors are an integral part of the supervision required. Counselors must have the self-discipline to manage sufficient rest needed for maintaining a high level of enthusiasm and supervisory responsibility during a rigorous daily/week schedule.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to work within an ever-changing work environment.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate information in a clear and understandable manner, both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to always put a positive face forward, no matter the circumstances, and the ability to function in a calm, efficient, and supportive manner, especially in crisis situations.
  • Senior Counselors must be at least 18 years old.
  • Counselors must be enrolled in a college or university and have completed their freshman year.

PREFERRED:

  • Basic First Aid training
  • CPR training
  • Life Guard training

DUTIES:

(80%) Duties Include:

  • Be directly responsible for 8-12 students assigned to your supervision. Lead group activities with your group, and be available for counseling, problem-solving, etc.
  • Assist students with minor first aid, and be familiar with and provide support of regular medication needs as outlined by parents/guardians.

(20%) Duties Include:

  • Attend required staff meetings and training sessions.
  • Keep constant awareness of the flow of camp activities, and proactively support where needed.
  • Alert Head Residents to issues as they arise.

    ______________________________________________________________________________

    ACADEMY INSTRUCTOR:
    ACADEMY Instructors will develop and implement an engaging and enriching class curriculum for a class of students of a specified age for four consecutive days in one week. These classes are designed to be educational and enjoyable, to engage students in critical thinking, and to inspire students to envision themselves as future college students. ACADEMY instructors agree to cultivate a safe and supportive environment for students with clearly communicated expectations for safety, respect, and responsibility.

    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

    • Passion for teaching young students.
    • 1+ years of experience with the subject matter.
    • In the last year of Undergraduate OR 20+ years old.
    • Ability to create age-appropriate engaging curriculum for 4-5 days of no more than 90 minutes of class time.

    PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

    • A college graduate.
    • 1+ years of teaching professionally in a classroom setting.

    DUTIES:

    (80%) Duties Include:

    • Create age-appropriate curriculum that fits within the class time limitations, and encourages critical thinking and Project-Based Learning.
    • Arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of class and remain until all students are safely en route to their next activity, or are under the supervision of the on-site coordinator.
    • Provide a climate that is conducive to learning and that respects the rights of all persons without discrimination.
    • Be responsible for behavior management inside the class, and uphold camp policies, including internet use policies and safety guidelines.

    (20%) Duties Include:

    • Attend required staff training sessions.
    • Prepare your classroom and supplies before each class.
    • Complete daily attendance records, and report missing or late students.

    ______________________________________________________________________________

    Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities (All ACADEMY positions):

    • Excellent communication skills; ability to effectively communicate information in a clear and understandable manner.
    • Ability to work with a high level of productivity and accuracy/attention to detail.
    • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
    • Ability to initiate, establish, and foster communication and teamwork between students by maintaining a positive, cooperative, productive atmosphere and creating community-oriented relationships within a diverse population and with those from various cultural backgrounds.
    • Working knowledge, or ability to quickly learn, university infrastructure, policies and procedures.

    PHYSICAL DEMANDS (all ACADEMY positions)

    • Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds, and sit or stand for an hour at a time.
    • Able to pull a wagon full of classroom or workshop supplies.

    SPECIAL CONDITIONS (all ACADEMY positions)

    • These positions are designated as a critical, security-sensitive or safety-sensitive positions and therefore, requires the successful completion of a Criminal Background Check and adherence to confidentiality agreements.
    • Persons employed in these positions are considered "mandated reporters" under the Oregon Revised Statutes and are required to comply with the requirements set forth by the Oregon Department of Human Services.
    • This position classification has been defined as non-exempt and is subject to the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
    • All staff are required to attend staff trainings prior to the start of camp. Staff training, orientation sessions, and work parties are an important part of preparing for camp. Summer Camp staff will be notified of specific times and locations of trainings after acceptance.
    • This position classification has been defined as non-exempt and is subject to the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

    _________________________

    SOU is an equal access AA/EOE committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workforce

    In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Southern Oregon University will provide, if requested, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of accommodation in order to provide access to the application, interviewing, and selection process. You are not required to note the presence of a disability on this application. If, however, you ...