ACADEMIC INSTRUCTOR JOB DESCRIPTION

Teaching basic skills to adults is straightforward. Doing it inside a DOL-regulated Job Corps center, where Career Success Standards carry the same weight as math scores, is not. Academic Instructors in this space manage dual accountability: measurable learning gains tracked through TABE and HSD/HSE completion rates, and behavioral benchmarks monitored under the CDSS plan. They work alongside career-technical instructors and student support teams that include counselors, wellness nurses, and disability coordinators. The role demands both instructional precision and administrative fluency to maintain ATARS compliance and accurate CIS attendance records.

As the Academic Instructor, you own the academic and employability development of Job Corps or federally funded program students, delivering instruction in subjects from foundational literacy to career readiness while holding performance to DOL learning-gain standards. You operate within a multidisciplinary center team, coordinating curriculum with career-technical staff and reporting progress through required program documentation.

Career Impact: Instructors who demonstrate consistent HSD/HSE completion rates and learning-gain outcomes build a record that transfers directly into curriculum leadership, training coordinator, or adult education director roles.

Business Impact: A student's GED completion or trade certification depends on the academic foundation this instructor builds; without it, center-wide performance metrics and federal contract compliance both suffer measurable shortfalls.

Growth Opportunity: Exposure to CDSS behavioral frameworks, DOL performance standards, and wrap-around service models gives instructors a skill set that opens doors in workforce development administration and federally contracted education management.

• Deliver classroom instruction in Reading, Mathematics, HSD/HSE preparation, and Career Success Standards to federally enrolled program students
• Coordinate curriculum development with career-technical instructors to align academic content with trade and certification pathways
• Evaluate student academic performance and Career Success Standards progress, providing structured feedback aligned with DOL learning-gain benchmarks
• Maintain student records, including test scores, attendance in CIS, incident reports, and achievement data, in compliance with program requirements
• Conduct ATARS audits and develop corrective action plans to maintain data integrity and program compliance
• Monitor progress toward performance goals, including HSD/HSE completion, trade completion, and career-technical certification rates
• Implement the CDSS plan and Code of Conduct system daily, adhering to OFCCP regulations, QAP standards, and Job Corps center policies
• Guide students in behavior, study habits, and career readiness by modeling and mentoring appropriate Career Success Standards

• Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 1 or more years of classroom instruction experience, with demonstrated ability to support students from diverse or disadvantaged backgrounds
• Valid state teaching certification or active pursuit of certification, if waived by the authorizing Regional Office
• Strong knowledge of foundational subject-area content, including literacy, mathematics, and employability skills frameworks
• Ability to maintain accurate student documentation, attendance records, and compliance reports under federal program guidelines
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with active listening and professional non-verbal presence in the classroom
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record, and the ability to obtain CPR/First Aid Certification

• Experience working with at-risk, disadvantaged, or court-involved youth in a structured program environment
• Familiarity with GED, TABE, or HSD/HSE assessment frameworks and test preparation strategies
• Experience supporting student success within federally funded workforce development or grant-administered education programs
• Knowledge of DOL Job Corps performance standards, PRH requirements, or comparable federal education compliance structures

• Learning gains rate, measuring the percentage of students achieving measurable academic progress per enrollment period
• HSD/HSE and trade completion rate, tracking credential attainment against DOL center performance targets
• ATARS audit compliance rate, reflecting the accuracy and timeliness of required program data entries
• Student attendance rate within assigned caseload, tracked against center benchmarks and CIS records
• Career Success Standards assessment scores, measuring student progress on employability and behavioral benchmarks
• Typical tools: student information systems (commonly CIS or comparable DOL-approved platforms); productivity software (commonly Microsoft Office suite)

• Base Salary Range: $38,000 to $52,000 annually, depending on experience and location
• Bonus: Annual performance bonus of 3 to 5 percent, tied to center learning-gain outcomes
• Equity: Not typically offered in this sector
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer-subsidized premiums standard
• PTO: 10 to 15 days annually, plus federal holidays
• Common Perks: Tuition assistance, professional development funding, and certification reimbursement

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Work authorization in the United States is required for this position. Employment is contingent on successful completion of a background check and, where required by contract, a drug screening. All qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process upon request.

The Academic Instructor delivers classroom instruction across subjects, including Reading, Mathematics, and HSD/HSE preparation to Job Corps students, coordinating curriculum development with career-technical instructors to advance learning gains and trade completion. Working within DOL guidelines and the CDSS plan, this role supports the center's academic performance standards and contributes directly to student career readiness outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Teach academic subjects, including Reading, Mathematics, Workplace Communications, Career Success Standards, Health Education, Driver's Education, or HSD/HSE in a regular classroom setting
• Foster a positive and motivating classroom atmosphere to ensure maximum student engagement
• Maintain classroom discipline to support optimal learning outcomes
• Coordinate curriculum development directly with career-technical instructors
• Evaluate student performance in academics and Career Success Standards, providing regular feedback
• Maintain student personal folders, recording data including test scores, evaluations, incident reports, achievement awards, and other pertinent student information, and record attendance in CIS
• Conduct audits of ATARS and develop corrective action as needed
• Work toward meeting performance standard goals, including learning gains, HSD/HSE completion, trade completion, and career-technical certification
• Follow the CDSS plan and Code of Conduct system daily, adhering to all DOL guidelines, OFCCP regulations, QAP, Job Corps notices, and Center policies
• Model, mentor, and monitor appropriate Career Success Standards
• Assist with quarterly graduation exercises and participate in all PRH-mandated staff training

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in education from a four-year college or university, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Current certification, license, or accreditation in the applicable state or by a recognized professional trade organization, with active pursuit of certification required if waived
• Minimum of one to two years of related experience in education
• Strong knowledge of subject-area content and academic teaching practices
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel
• Proficiency in basic computer functions, including email, internet navigation, and programs such as Adobe Acrobat
• Experience with motivating, inspiring, and training students effectively, including those from diverse backgrounds
• Strong skills in time management, task allocation, priority assignment, and maintaining a high level of accuracy and efficiency
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with professional non-verbal presence and active listening
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, with a team-oriented approach to building professional relationships and achieving goals
• Experience providing coaching, feedback, and developmental support to position students for success

Embedded within the flight instruction division, the Academic Instructor plans and delivers all assigned flight-related subjects in compliance with applicable regulations, directives, and the Syllabus of Instruction. Working closely with divisional leadership and safety committees, this role ensures instructional materials remain current and that students receive the rigorous ground education required for rotary wing aviation competency.

Core Functions

• Instruct and plan all assigned flight-related subjects within the applicable POI and Syllabus of Instruction, in accordance with applicable regulations, directives, policies, and procedures
• Prepare, update, and present all lesson plans and instructional materials, including computer presentations, in compliance with company and government requirements
• Prepare, update, administer, grade, record, and critique examinations within assigned instructional areas
• Maintain all training materials, training aids, and equipment within assigned instructional areas, ensuring they are current, backed up, and available in sufficient quantities
• Conduct ongoing research to keep all assigned subject-area lesson plans and training materials current in content, format, and media
• Provide extra instruction for deficient students and advise the supervisor of needed supplies and training aids well in advance of required dates
• Attend safety and academic instructor meetings, fulfill all safety training requirements, participate in emergency response tasks, and serve on safety committees as required
• Conform to quality management policies and implement all operational, safety, quality, and environmental requirements of the role

Qualifications & Experience

• FAA Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI) and Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI) certificates required
• Successful completion of the Common Faculty Development-Instructor Course within the last five years is required
• Minimum of three years of general aviation experience
• Demonstrated ability to effectively teach Initial Entry Rotary Wing students in subjects including Theory of Rotary Wing Flight, Flight Support, Navigation, Aviation Weather, and Basic/Advanced Instruments
• Proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet data input, and visual presentation software
• Ability to pass a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI)
• Strong planning and organizational skills, with the ability to work within time constraints and adapt to changing technologies
• Strong communication skills, with demonstrated proficiency assessed via a pre-hire class presentation to divisional leadership

Reporting to JSOU's academic leadership, the Senior Academic Instructor shapes subject matter instruction in military studies and special operations, publishing a minimum of one major research project annually to advance the institution's scholarly output. Partnering with faculty at joint PME institutions, NDU, NPS, and USSOCOM, this role strengthens the quality and strategic relevance of SOF education at the operational and strategic levels.

Strategic Responsibilities

• Promote and conduct joint special operations research, analysis, and publication of scholarly articles at the operational and strategic levels
• Provide input for classified research projects, including USSOCOM Commander-directed research on material and topics up to and including TS/SCI and ACCM programs
• Assist in drafting the annual research plan and facilitate execution of the approved research plan
• Publish a minimum of one large research project, such as a monograph, or two smaller research projects, such as a chapter or article, each year
• Support courses with instruction, including lectures, seminars, or case studies, and the SOF curriculum at senior professional military education institutions, as requested
• Plan, execute, or contribute as an active participant to strategically focused, senior-level symposia of comparable quality to nationally recognized colleges and universities
• Collaborate on education events and war games with faculty at other joint PME institutions, NDU, NPS, USSOCOM, and other post-secondary institutions
• Support a formalized special operations research program between USSOCOM and service or joint PME institutions, civilian academic research institutions, and international research centers

Education & Experience

• Terminal degree (PhD or EdD) in International Relations, National Security Strategy, Security Studies, Strategic Communications, Political Science, International Affairs, Counterterrorism, Anthropology, History, Education, or a relevant field; or an MA/MS with 15 years of SOF or related experience, including service at the unified, sub-unified, or component command level or an interagency role supporting the SOCOM enterprise, from a regionally or internationally accredited institution
• Minimum of five years of research and professional publications experience, with a record as a published author in an academic journal or book
• Minimum of five years of operational experience within the SOF, academic, or interagency community
• Minimum of five years of expertise in national security affairs, or recognized academic expertise in subjects relevant to SOF Ground, Sea, Land, Air/Space, or Interagency operations
• Minimum of three years of post-secondary instructor experience, or graduation from a Faculty Development Course recognized by the academic Dean
• Knowledge of industry-standard publication practices and experience with classified research topics relevant to special operations

Sitting at the intersection of academic instruction and student support services, the Academic Instructor builds rapport with students to communicate Career Success Standards and employability skills while maintaining a safe, harassment-free center climate free of intimidation and disrespect. Operating across classroom, administrative, and community-facing responsibilities, this role enables student growth by ensuring curriculum readiness, accurate recordkeeping, and full adherence to Job Corps program requirements.

Primary Duties

• Foster a positive and motivating classroom atmosphere to ensure maximum student engagement and maintain a high degree of discipline to support optimal learning
• Establish a high degree of student-instructor rapport and clearly communicate appropriate Career Success Standards and employability skills, including personal responsibility and computer fluency
• Maintain student personnel folders, record and forward daily attendance to the Student Records area, and prepare reports including student and staff hours, requisitions, and monthly student evaluations
• Utilize all available curriculum resources and ensure adequate classroom preparation
• Maintain accountability of staff, students, and property, adhere to safety practices, and ensure security measures are taken for all assigned buildings and equipment
• Cultivate and maintain a center climate free of harassment, intimidation, and disrespect to provide a safe environment for staff and students
• Assist the supervisor during scheduled inventory, complete all necessary Job Corps forms, and adhere to all aspects of the Quality Assurance Plan
• Attend all required staff training sessions and perform other duties as assigned

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education
• Valid state teaching certification required, with active pursuit of certification required if waived by the Regional Office
• Valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving record, and the ability to obtain and maintain CPR/First Aid Certification
• Preference for one year of teaching experience with disadvantaged youth
• Strong knowledge of the required subject area
• Ability to motivate and inspire students and effectively relate to the trainee population
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, and strong organizational skills
• Ability to operate household appliances, drive an automobile, interact with team members, and maintain effective working relationships with all facility staff and departments

A key member of the correctional education team, the Academic Instructor leads classroom instruction in mathematics, science, social studies, reading, writing, and language arts to support inmates and students in developing skills for responsible civic participation. Collaborating across the facility under general supervision, this role produces measurable learning outcomes through structured lesson planning, individualized instruction, and consistent use of a secure, positive classroom management approach.

Duties

• Prepare course objectives following curriculum standards and applicable contract requirements
• Plan a program of study, including lesson plans, assignments, and tests, under general supervision
• Provide instruction using course outlines, handouts, texts, audiovisual aids, and other materials
• Administer tests to evaluate student progress and competency with subject matter
• Assist students with individualized instruction as needed

Professional Experience

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• Active teaching license preferred, with possession of or eligibility for all certifications, licenses, or credentials required by contract and applicable state of employment, with continued employment contingent on maintaining required agency credentials
• Three years of classroom instruction experience preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications

Sustained student achievement in after-school settings depends on the After School Academic Instructor, who implements the ACE Cycle 10 grant program and leverages center academic enrichment resources to increase student performance. Based within a Communities In Schools program, this role supports the school-day Student Disciplinary Plan across all center activities and enables continuous improvement of academic outcomes for elementary and secondary students.

Accountabilities

• Communicate effectively with students and staff, maintaining emotional control under stress and working productively with frequent interruptions
• Maintain consistent daily attendance and adhere to the physical demands of the role, including moderate standing, stooping, bending, and lifting
• Leverage qualified center academic enrichment resources to increase student performance
• Read, understand, and participate in the implementation and continuous improvement of the ACE Cycle 10 grant program
• Implement the school-day Student Disciplinary Plan across all center activities

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree, preferably in Education, Social Work, or a related field; or a High School Diploma with active pursuit of a bachelor's degree
• Experience working with elementary or secondary students in an academic or enrichment program
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Strong computer skills, including the ability to integrate technology into activities
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, frequently changing environment with a multitasking-oriented approach
• Commitment to the Communities In Schools and ACE mission

As the Academic Instructor, this role delivers adult basic education, English language development, special education, and basic subjects, including reading, mathematics, and language arts, to diverse students in a detention facility setting. The instructional program relies on this work to maintain accurate attendance and progress records, evaluate inmate and detainee academic advancement, and provide individualized tutoring that supports measurable learning outcomes.

Scope of Work

• Teach career planning, social adjustment, and general life skills courses
• Instruct conversational English, including local ideas and customs, to students with limited English proficiency
• Maintain records including testing, daily inmate and detainee work, and attendance
• Evaluate and ensure inmate and detainee academic progress
• Provide individual tutoring

Position Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• Valid state teaching certificate from the Department of Education or a comparable authority
• Two years of relevant teaching experience preferred
• Ability to meet physical requirements, including frequently lifting or carrying up to 10 lbs., bending, stooping, reaching above shoulder level, walking, and standing, and occasionally lifting or carrying up to 20 lbs. and pushing or pulling up to 40 lbs.

Academic Instructor owns the design and delivery of math, reading, GED preparation, and high school instruction within low staff-to-student ratio classrooms that facilitate individualized learning. The work directly supports a student support team that includes career counselors, wellness nurses, and disability coordinators, ensuring wrap-around services that advance career and workplace readiness for each student served.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Demonstrate and abide by core values, operating principles, and Career Success Standards
• Develop curriculum and provide instruction in the designated area, using direct lessons and independent learning facilitation
• Demonstrate awareness of diverse learning styles and tailor instructional methodology using an array of teaching approaches
• Assist students in developing testing skills and coping with test anxiety in preparation for the GED and TABE tests
• Motivate and counsel students in the areas of behavior, training, and study habits, and relate academic skills to career, technical training, and future workplace success
• Work with the student support team, including the career counselor, wellness nurse, disability coordinator, and career and technical instructor, to provide wrap-around services for student success
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including case notes, attendance, student progress plans, and student evaluation forms

Background & Experience

• Bachelor's degree
• Valid teaching license in the state of Maryland
• Valid driver's license in the state of residence with an acceptable driving record
• One year of instructional experience preferred
• Proficiency in computer use and relevant software applications