SEEKING INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR
Building Trades Instructor
SUNY Sullivan – Workforce Development
Position Title: Building Trades Instructor
Department: Workforce Development
Reports To: Director of Workforce Development
Employment Type: Part-Time / Evening Cohort
Program Length: 10 Weeks (8 hours per week; 2 evenings per week)
Location: Sullivan BOCES, 52 Ferndale Loomis Rd., Liberty, NY 12754
POSITION SUMMARY
SUNY Sullivan Workforce Development is seeking a skilled, hands-on Construction Technology Instructor to deliver a 10-week practical training program designed to prepare adult learners for immediate employment in residential and light commercial construction in the Hudson Valley and Sullivan County region. The instructor will teach foundational construction skills, including the use of tools and safety, framing, interior/exterior systems, commercial specialties, concrete, building codes, and jobsite readiness.
The ideal candidate possesses real-world construction experience, enjoys teaching adult learners, and is dedicated to helping students develop job-ready skills for local employers.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Instruction & Training
Deliver instruction aligned with the 10-unit Construction Technology curriculum, including:
Tools & safety training (OSHA-based principles)
Material identification and construction drawings
Concrete forms and basic foundation concepts
Wood framing (walls, doors, windows)
Drywall installation and finishing
Flooring, cabinets, interior specialty installations
Exterior projects such as decks, stairs
Building codes, inspections, and jobsite expectations
Employability skills and capstone project
Lead hands-on shop activities, demonstrations, and safety briefings.
Ensure proper use, maintenance, and storage of program tools, materials, and equipment.
Student Support & Workforce Readiness
Foster a supportive environment for adult learners with varying skill levels.
Provide individualized coaching as needed to build tool proficiency and confidence.
Evaluate student performance based on attendance, participation, safety, and skills assessments.
Program Operations
Assist with setup and breakdown of training materials for each session.
Maintain a safe learning environment and enforce SUNY Sullivan and OSHA-aligned safety practices.
Coordinate with Workforce Development staff to track student progress, attendance, and outcomes.
Participate in instructor meetings, curriculum updates, and quality improvement activities.
Provide input on materials, equipment, and supply needs (including dismantling the capstone build after each cohort).
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
Minimum 5 years of experience in residential or commercial construction, carpentry, remodeling, or building maintenance OR equivalent trade experience.
Ability to demonstrate proper and safe use of hand tools, power tools, ladders, and equipment.
Strong knowledge of framing, drywall, flooring, decks, stair layout, commercial installations, and jobsite safety.
Strong communication skills with the ability to train adult learners.
Commitment to maintaining a safe working and learning environment.
Preferred
Prior teaching, training, or supervisory experience.
Experience with OSHA safety training or site supervision.
Knowledge of local Hudson Valley/Sullivan County employer needs.
Experience in estimating materials and managing small-scale projects.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Hands-on shop environment with physical activity such as lifting (up to 50 lbs), bending, and standing for extended periods.
Evening schedule (typically 2 evenings per week, 4 hours per night).
Use of PPE and adherence to all safety protocols required.
COMPENSATION
Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. Hourly rate to be determined by SUNY Sullivan Workforce Development based on instructor background and program enrollment $40-50 per hour.
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APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested candidates should submit the following directly to jschmeiser@sunysullivan.edu:
- Resume detailing relevant construction experience
- Brief statement of teaching or supervisory experience
- Any relevant certifications (optional)