TBR | The College System of Tennessee

We have an opening for an Evening Associate Instructor of Industrial Automation Robotics / Industrial Electricity at our TCAT Chattanooga / Chattanooga State Campus! 

Our Purpose:

We support and empower everyone in our community to learn without limits.

Our Values:

We cultivate an inclusive environment.

We care about the well-being of each other.

We instill trust through integrity and transparency.

Our Mission:

We are Chattanooga State, a dedicated team delivering accessible, innovative learning opportunities that surpass expectations. Together, we enrich the lives of students and their families, develop a talented workforce, and partner with the community to lead boldly into the future.

Position Overview:

Chattanooga State seeks a dedicated and knowledgeable Evening Associate Instructor in Industrial Automation Robotics/Industrial Electricity to join our team at the Chattanooga campus. This role is instrumental in equipping students with the skills and expertise needed for successful careers in automation, robotics, and industrial electricity. You will have the unique opportunity to develop and deliver a dynamic curriculum that reflects industry standards, all while fostering an inclusive, hands-on learning environment.

As an Evening Associate Instructor, you will lead students through rigorous technical instruction and practical applications, guiding them to master essential industry competencies. In addition to instruction, you will collaborate with faculty on curriculum enhancements, mentor students in career planning, and contribute to the ongoing development of Chattanooga State’s community-focused, innovative programs. This role offers an opportunity to make a lasting impact on students, helping them achieve their career goals while also supporting workforce development within the local community.

Key Responsibilities:

Teaching Excellence

Instructional Delivery

• Conduct detailed lectures and hands-on lab sessions covering a spectrum of topics, from basic mechanical and fluid power systems to advanced subjects like PLCs, Robotics Integration, Industrial Ethernet Networking, VFDs, and Automated Control Systems.
• Assess student understanding and technical skill through frequent evaluations, practical troubleshooting tasks, and project-based learning, maintaining comprehensive records of progress.
• Offer individualized support to students, focusing on complex problem-solving, real-time diagnostics, and precision control in automated systems.

Advanced Course and Curriculum Development

• Develop and enhance course modules that integrate advanced industry technologies and adhere to evolving workforce standards, including Industry 4.0, IIoT, and data-driven automation.
• Collaborate in selecting instructional resources such as PLC programming tools, robotic simulators, and electromechanical kits.
• Lead the design and continuous updating of course syllabi, ensuring alignment with program goals and incorporating virtual labs, simulations, and real-world case studies through the eLearn LMS.

Professional Development and Industry Engagement

• Maintain expertise by pursuing certifications and training in areas like AI in Robotics, predictive maintenance, and advanced motion control.
• Participate in industry organizations, technical workshops, and conferences to enrich instructional methods and provide real-world insights to students.
• Contribute actively to college professional development efforts, sharing industry insights to support program improvement and staying connected with workforce needs.

Holistic Student Support

• Advise and mentor students on career pathways in automation and industrial electricity, offering guidance on certifications and technical specializations based on individual interests and industry demand.
• Facilitate student engagement in competitive skills programs like SkillsUSA and promote involvement in technical honor societies such as NTHS to reinforce technical proficiency and leadership skills.
• Support job placement efforts through connections with local industry partners, assisting with resume development, interview preparation, and sourcing potential internships or apprenticeships.

1. Program Innovation

• Actively participate in college-wide initiatives, supporting accreditation and compliance standards, such as the Council on Occupational Education (COE) reporting and program assessment processes.
• Provide technical expertise in program and budget planning, ensuring that the selection and maintenance of lab equipment reflect current industry requirements and operational safety standards.
• Serve on program advisory committees, contributing to the alignment of curriculum with local industry needs and fostering strong partnerships with regional businesses and community stakeholders.

Additional Duties

Execute other responsibilities as required to support the college's mission and uphold high standards in technical education.

Position Requirements:

Skills and Knowledge Requirements

1. Education and Experience

• Diploma or associate's degree in Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, Robotics, or Industrial Electricity.

• Minimum of three years as a maintenance technician or licensed electrician (LLE), or ten years in industrial automation, robotics, or electrical systems.

1. Technical Skills

• Skilled in PLCs, HMIs, robotics, servo/stepper motors, VFDs, and automation protocols (e.g., Modbus, Ethernet/IP).
• Strong diagnostic skills in automation, with knowledge of sensors, actuators, control software, and data systems.
• Familiar with NFPA 70E, OSHA, and industrial safety standards.

1. Instructional Skills

• • Proficient in creating training modules using LMS, with experience in virtual labs, simulations, and courseware for online and in-person learning.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Post-secondary or secondary teaching experience in equivalent technical courses, ideally with a focus on hands-on lab instruction and skills-based learning.
2. Completion of a USDOL (United States Department of Labor) registered apprenticeship in mechanical or electrical maintenance, providing a solid foundation in trade-specific skills and professional competencies.

Professional Attributes:

• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to students with varying levels of technical experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with digital tools used for technical documentation and presentations.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with students, colleagues, and industry partners, fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment.

Salary: Projected range (based on experience and qualifications), salary could range from $50,000 to $70,000

Location: Chattanooga, TN, United States