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Silversmithing Instructor

School of Arts & Humanities

Academic Affairs

Tsaile Campus

Duty Schedule:

This is a full-time position that requires teaching 15 course credit hours per semester, 30 credit hours per academic year. Summer adjunct work possible.

Summary/Objective of Position:

The instructor of silversmithing teaches foundational and advanced metalworking (silversmithing)with a focus on traditional Dine (Navajo) practices, including stamping, repousse, stone setting, and culturally grounded design. The position centers on preserving and transmitting cultural knowledge while integrating contemporary techniques and safety standards. Through hands-on, studio-based instruction, the instructor develops students' technical skills, creative expression, and understanding of the cultural and historical significance of Navajo silversmithing. The role also includes maintaining studio operations and safety, supporting student development, contributing to curriculum, and engaging with local artisans and communities to sustain cultural continuity and program relevance.

Description of Essential Functions of the Position

Disclaimer: This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. While this list is intended to reflect the current job accurately, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• The Instructor of silversmithing provides comprehensive Instruction In both foundational and advanced metalworking techniques, with an emphasis on traditional Dine (Navajo) silversmithing practices. This includes teaching methods such as stamping, repousse, overlay, fabrication, and stone setting, while guiding students in the appropriate use of tools and materials. The Instructor designs and delivers studio-based courses that build technical proficiency, craftsmanship, and problem-solving skills, ensuring that instruction is clear, structured, and aligned with program learning outcomes.
• A central function of the position is the preservation and transmission of cultural knowledge embedded in Navajo silversmithing. The Instructor contextualizes techniques within their historical, cultural, and aesthetic significance, addressing topics such as design symbolism, cultural protocols, and the relationship between artistic practice and Dine values. Instruction emphasizes respect for cultural knowledge, ethical sourcing of materials, and
• the role of silversmithing within community life, helping students understand both the craft and its broader meaning.
• The instructor is responsible for developing, assessing, and refining curriculum to meet institutional standards and program goals. This includes creating syllabi, assignments, and assessment tools that evaluate student learning In both technical skill and cultural understanding. The instructor provides timely and constructive feedback, monitors student progress, and supports diverse learning needs, fostering an inclusive and supportive studio environment that encourages growth, creativity, and accountability.
• The position also involves the management and maintenance of studio facilities, tools, and equipment. The instructor ensures that all safety protocols are followed, including proper handling of metals, chemicals, and machinery, and provides students with training In safe studio practices. Regular oversight of Inventory, equipment maintenance, and organization of the workspace is required to sustain a functional and professional learning environment.
• In addition, the instructor engages with local artisans, cultural practitioners, and community members to strengthen the relevance and authenticity of the program. This may include inviting guest artists, organizing workshops or demonstrations, and facilitating community-based learning opportunities. The Instructor contributes to program development and institutional initiatives, supports recruitment and retention efforts, carries out student advising, and participates in departmental and college service as needed to advance the mission of the institution.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

Minimum:

• Demonstrated proficiency in traditional Dine (Navajo) silversmithing techniques; knowledge of its cultural, historical, and aesthetic foundations, including design symbolism and protocols; at least two years of teaching or mentorship experience; ability to provide hands-on instruction and assess student learning; knowledge of studio safety practices; and strong communication and organizational skills to effectively work with diverse students.

Preferred:

• Master of Fine Arts {MFA) or other terminal degree in Jewelry/Metalsmithing, Studio Art, or a related field; experience teaching al the college level; an active professional practice with a record of exhibitions, commissions, or recognition in silversmithing; demonstrated engagement with Dine arts, culture, and community-based work; familiarity with Dine language or cultural frameworks; and experience developing curriculum or leading workshops in Indigenous or traditional arts contexts.
• Professional artist with at least a Master of Fine Arts, with a concentration in traditional painting, with expertise in showing work in galleries, museums, and Native Art Markets.
• Evidence and knowledge of applicable art history, in both traditional and contemporary styles, and must be flexible with the evolution of the history of Navajo art and as well as contemporary Native American Art.

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of traditional Dine (Navajo) silversmithing techniques (e.g., stamping, repousse, overlay, fabrication. stone setting);
• Understanding of the cultural, historical, and aesthetic foundations of Navajo silversmithing, including design symbolism and cultural protocols;
• Familiarity with studio safety standards, tools, equipment, and materials; and
• Knowledge of instructional design, assessment methods, and curriculum development in a studio-based learning environment.

Skills:

• Ability to demonstrate silversmithing techniques through sample work and live Instruction; design and deliver structured, hands-on lessons aligned with learning outcomes;
• Assess student work using clear criteria and provide timely, constructive feedback;
• Enforce safe studio practices;
• Maintain an organized and functional workplace;
• Communicate effectively in verbal and written forms;
• Adapt instruction to diverse student needs;
• Manage time and course responsibilities efficiently; and
• Facilitate constructive critique and discussion.

Abilities:

• Ability to model and transmit traditional Dine (Navajo) silversmithing practices in a culturally respectful manner;
• Integrate cultural knowledge with technical instruction;
• Foster a supportive, Inclusive, and engaged studio learning environment; motivate and mentor students at varying skill levels;
• Exercise sound judgment in maintaining safety and addressing studio issues; organize and manage studio operations effectively;
• Collaborate with colleagues, artisans, and community partners; and
• Contribute to program development and Institutional initiatives.

Physical Requirements, Work Environment & Travel:

• Travel may be necessary.

Other Requirement(s):

• A driver's license is necessary for work-related travel.
• Ability to communicate In the Navajo language is preferred, but not necessary.
• Some familiarity with the college and aspects of traditional knowledge associated with silversmithing.