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Trade Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... trade. The Trades Instructor is responsible for delivering and facilitating a prescribed curriculum through a combination of in-class/virtual theory-based instruction and hands-on demonstration ...

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Trade Instructor information

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$37

How much do trade instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for trade instructor in the United States is $20.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trade instructor?

Trade Instructors are professionals who teach students the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required for a specific trade, such as plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, or automotive repair. They typically work in vocational schools, technical colleges, or apprenticeship programs, providing hands-on training and classroom instruction. Trade Instructors often have years of experience in their trade and hold relevant certifications. Their main goal is to prepare students for successful careers by ensuring they meet industry standards and safety regulations.

What are some common challenges trade instructors face when teaching hands-on skills to adult learners?

Trade Instructors often encounter the challenge of addressing diverse skill levels and learning styles within a single group of adult learners. Many students may have little prior experience, while others may already possess some practical knowledge, requiring instructors to balance the pace and depth of instruction. Additionally, ensuring safety while demonstrating and supervising hands-on tasks is critical, especially in workshops or labs. Effective Trade Instructors use a mix of demonstration, guided practice, and individualized feedback to ensure all learners can progress confidently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trade instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trade Instructor, you need in-depth expertise in your specific trade, relevant certifications or licensure, and experience in both the field and teaching. Familiarity with industry-standard tools, safety protocols, and instructional technologies such as learning management systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to motivate and engage diverse learners make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively transferring practical knowledge, ensuring safety, and preparing students for successful trade careers.

What is the difference between Trade Instructor vs Trade Technician?

AspectTrade InstructorTrade Technician
Required CredentialsTrade certifications, teaching credentials or licensesTrade certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, training centers, workshopsWorksites, repair shops, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, vocational schoolsManufacturing, construction, maintenance industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Trade Instructors primarily focus on teaching and training students in technical skills within educational settings, requiring teaching credentials alongside trade certifications. Trade Technicians, on the other hand, apply their technical skills directly in the field to repair, maintain, or operate equipment. While both roles require trade certifications, their work environments and employer types differ significantly, making this comparison relevant for those exploring careers in skilled trades.

How to become a trade instructor?

To become a trade instructor, candidates typically need relevant industry experience in the trade they wish to teach, along with a relevant certification or license if required. Many positions also require a teaching credential or instructor certification, and strong communication skills are essential for effective instruction. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or working in the trade can improve prospects for becoming a trade instructor.
More about Trade Instructor jobs

What states have the most Trade Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trade Instructor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Trade Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,997 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

$51K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

The Trades Instructor will educate students using Apex curriculum to become proficient in their trade. The Trades Instructor is responsible for delivering and facilitating a prescribed curriculum through a combination of in-class/virtual theory-based instruction and hands-on demonstration/application of skilled trades. The Trades Instructor will prepare and educate students to assume entry level positions within their respective trade.

For the Welding Program, the Trades Instructor will provide instruction in welding theory, blueprint reading, metal fabrication, welding safety, and hands-on welding applications including SMAW (Stick), GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), and FCAW welding processes. The instructor will prepare students for entry-level employment opportunities within the welding and fabrication industry.

Compensation: $51,432/yr

Responsibilities: 

  • Instruct students in theory and hands-on curriculum in a classroom environment within the subject of skilled trades and welding applications.
  • Teach students proper welding techniques including SMAW (Stick), GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), and FCAW welding processes.
  • Demonstrate cutting, grinding, fitting, fabrication, and metal preparation procedures.
  • Instruct students on blueprint reading, weld symbols, measurements, layout procedures, and welding specifications.
  • Teach students proper use and maintenance of welding machines, torches, grinders, plasma cutters, and fabrication tools.
  • Explain and demonstrate welding safety standards, OSHA regulations, PPE requirements, and safe shop practices.
  • Evaluate weld quality and demonstrate proper inspection and testing methods to determine weld soundness and structural integrity.
  • Determines the best method to deliver needed training and course instruction; prepares materials, locations, and supplies accordingly.
  • Explains and demonstrates jobs and tasks to be performed.
  • Explains, demonstrates, and emphasizes all safety aspects of jobs and tasks; reviews any applicable job safety analysis with each student.
  • Schedules, organizes, and provides supplemental training when necessary.
  • Conducts refresher training and make-up sessions when necessary.
  • Ensures tools and equipment are properly cleaned, stored, and maintained for optimum performance and safety.
  • Guides, assigns, schedules, and supervises the work of students; ensures work is completed in accordance with assigned curriculum.
  • Ensures each assigned student follows all safety standards.
  • Provides student evaluations based on performance and goals set by Apex curriculum in a timely and constructive manner.
  • Compile accurate attendance records and grade entries and ensure they are maintained and submitted timely per state and accrediting standards.
  • Ensures each assigned student follows all established rules and meets expectations for appropriate conduct within the school.
  • Participate and successfully complete all professional development sessions as required by accrediting and state standards.
  • Participate in all individual career development sessions as required.
  • Maintain trades licenses and certifications as needed per state and accrediting standards.
  • Functions as an ambassador and liaison for Apex Technical School.
  • Contributes to organization success by accepting new assignments, helping team members, learning new skills, and striving to improve team results.

Qualifications: 

Job qualifications are stated in the Essential Functions of the job description. An employee must be able to accomplish the Essential Functions to be competent in the job. Other special requirements are noted below:

Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent

Equipment Skills:

  • Thorough understanding of the correct and safe operation of welding and fabrication tools and equipment.
  • Use of safety equipment/apparel including welding shields, gloves, respirators, and protective clothing.

Software Skills:

  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Google Classroom

Required Experience: 

Minimum of 3 years' experience in welding, fabrication, or related skilled trades.

 
 
Apex Technical School is an adult vocational technical school located in Long Island City, New York, that provides top-tier vocational training in high-growth trades. Founded in 1961, Apex serves about 1,400 students annually with seven 900-hour certificate courses in skilled trades including refrigeration, automotive service, auto body, welding technology, electrical and advanced electrical, plumbing and construction. Apex certificate programs are highly regarded and have been shown to have a substantial positive impact on economic mobility-leading to entry level careers.
Apex is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, and licensed by New York State Department of Education Apex offers job placement assistance, financial aid and work-study jobs to those who qualify.

Website: https://apexschool.com/