Project Based Learning Teacher Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The mission of Dubuque Dream Center Academy is to establish a non-denominational Urban Christian School that produces students who are disciples of Jesus Christ, have successful academic outcomes, and are prepared for college or career.

TITLE: High School CTE Teacher (Science & Math Endorsement) Exempt Employee

REPORTS DIRECTLY TO: Principal, Head of School

SUPERVISES: School Connectors, Virtual Teachers, students

EVALUATION: Performance on the job will be evaluated by the principal or Head of School in terms of this job description.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic, visionary, and student-centered High School Career and Technical Education (CTE) Teacher with valid endorsements in Science and Math. The ideal candidate will bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application, designing and delivering hands-on curricula that prepare students for both post-secondary education and high-demand careers.

In this role, you will integrate rigorous scientific inquiry and mathematical concepts into technical pathways (such as Engineering, Health Sciences, Information Technology, or Advanced Manufacturing), ensuring students understand the practical utility of STEM disciplines.
 

Key Responsibilities

1. Instructional Design & Delivery

• Integrated STEM Curriculum: Develop and implement engaging, project-based lesson plans that seamlessly merge CTE pathway competencies with state science and math standards.
• Hands-on Learning: Facilitate laboratory experiments, technical builds, and problem-solving exercises that simulate real-world industry environments.
• Differentiated Instruction: Adapt teaching methods and materials to meet the diverse needs, learning styles, and abilities of all students, including those with IEPs or 504 plans.
• Assessment: Design both formative and summative assessments, including technical performance tasks, to measure student mastery of math, science, and career-readiness skills.

2. CTE Program Management & Compliance

• Work-Based Learning: Coordinate opportunities for students to participate in internships, job shadowing, apprenticeship programs, and industry site visits.
• Advisory Committee Engagement: Collaborate with local business leaders, higher education partners, and community stakeholders to keep the program aligned with current industry standards.
• Safety & Compliance: Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom/laboratory environment; strictly enforce OSHA and state-specific safety protocols for all equipment and procedures.
• CTSO Leadership: Advise and support a Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) such as SkillsUSA, FIRST Robotics, or HOSA, guiding students in leadership and competitive events.

3. Professional Collaboration & Classroom Culture

• Cross-Curricular Alignment: Partner with standard Math and Science department peers to ensure academic rigor and consistency across the school.
• Culture of Excellence: Establish high behavioral and academic expectations, fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and professional workplace culture in the classroom.
• Data-Driven Instruction: Analyze student performance data to continuously refine instructional strategies and improve Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Licensure

• Degree: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a STEM field, Career and Technical Education, or Secondary Education.
• Certification: Valid State Teaching License for Secondary Education (Grades 9–12).
• Endorsements: Must hold valid endorsements in both Mathematics and at least one Science discipline (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or General Science).
• CTE Certification: Eligible for or holding a state CTE certificate/endorsement based on industry experience or specific pathway requirements.

Experience & Skills

• Teaching Experience: Minimum of 2 years of classroom teaching experience at the high school level preferred.
• Industry Experience: Prior professional experience in a STEM-related industry (engineering, tech, lab research, etc.) is highly desirable.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with modern educational technology, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and industry-specific tools/software (e.g., CAD, MATLAB, programming languages, or laboratory instrumentation).
• Communication: Exceptional interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills for interacting with students, parents, colleagues, and industry partners.

Preferred Attributes

• Passionate about experiential, project-based learning.
• Strong understanding of local and national labor market trends.
• Proven track record of preparing students for industry-recognized certifications.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: Competitive salary commensurate with education, teaching experience, and industry background, based on the district’s collective bargaining schedule.
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance; state teacher retirement plan (pension); paid sick/personal leave; and dedicated professional development funding.