Engineering Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of technological education, the role of engineering instructors has never been more critical.

As technology advances, the demand for proficient educators who can guide, develop, and ensure the quality of our future engineers intensifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an engineering instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of engineering education,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a versatile engineering instructor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Engineering Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Engineering Instructors are responsible for teaching students the principles of engineering across various disciplines.

They use their expertise and experience to deliver high-quality educational content, evaluate student progress, and contribute to curriculum development.

The duties and responsibilities of an Engineering Instructor include:

• Prepare and deliver lectures on a range of engineering topics
• Design, administer, and grade exams to assess student understanding and progress
• Develop course syllabi, lesson plans, and instructional materials
• Provide hands-on instruction in engineering concepts, design principles, and practical applications
• Oversee student lab work, ensuring safety protocols are followed
• Advise and mentor students in their academic and career development
• Stay updated on the latest developments and advancements in the field of engineering
• Participate in departmental meetings, college-wide activities, and professional development opportunities
• Engage in research activities, contribute to academic publications, and present findings at conferences
• Maintain regular office hours to meet with students and address their queries

 

Engineering Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Engineering Instructor to provide instruction and mentorship to our engineering students.

The Engineering Instructor will be responsible for creating engaging lessons, monitoring student progress, and promoting an environment of learning and curiosity.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of engineering principles, hands-on experience in the field, and a passion for teaching and fostering student success.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive lesson plans that align with curriculum guidelines and educational standards
• Deliver engaging, interactive lectures on complex engineering concepts and principles
• Assign and grade projects, quizzes, and exams
• Provide personalized feedback and guidance to students
• Monitor student progress and provide additional assistance as needed
• Stay updated on latest engineering trends and technologies to enhance instruction
• Participate in faculty meetings, workshops, and professional development sessions
• Maintain office hours for student consultations

 

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Engineering or a related field
• Prior teaching experience, preferably at the post-secondary level
• Strong understanding of engineering principles and concepts
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience with online teaching platforms and digital learning technologies
• Ability to create a positive, inclusive learning environment
• Effective problem-solving and critical thinking skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement or waiver for employees and dependents

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Engineering Instructor
• Work Environment: Classroom setting with occasional remote instruction. Some travel may be required for conferences or seminars.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair or Dean of Engineering.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and teaching philosophy, and three references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Engineering Instructor Do?

An Engineering Instructor is generally employed by educational institutions like colleges, universities, and technical schools.

They may also provide private instruction or work for online educational platforms.

Their primary role is to teach students about various aspects of engineering.

This can include teaching a wide range of subjects, from the fundamentals of physics and mathematics to complex principles of mechanical, civil, electrical, or software engineering, depending on their area of expertise.

Engineering Instructors plan and deliver lectures, create and grade assignments and exams, and guide students in lab work or practical applications of theories taught in class.

They also guide students in their research projects, help them understand complex engineering problems, and provide solutions.

In addition to teaching, they may also conduct their own research and publish their findings in scholarly journals.

Engineering Instructors often mentor students, providing career guidance and helping students to develop the skills necessary for a successful engineering career.

They also stay updated with the latest advancements in the field of engineering and incorporate them into their teaching.

In some cases, Engineering Instructors may also participate in departmental meetings, serve on academic committees, and contribute to curriculum development.

 

Engineering Instructor Qualifications and Skills

An Engineering Instructor should have the qualifications and skills that align with the role, such as:

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of engineering principles, methodologies, and tools to facilitate effective teaching and practical demonstrations.
• Excellent communication skills to explain complex engineering concepts in a clear and concise manner that fosters student comprehension and application.
• Strong interpersonal skills for interacting with students, faculty, and industry professionals, fostering an engaging learning environment and maintaining professional relationships.
• Ability to design, organize, and implement a comprehensive curriculum that meets academic standards and student needs.
• Experience with various teaching methods and educational technology to cater to diverse learning styles and modern teaching environments.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to help students understand and apply engineering concepts in practical scenarios.
• Patient and empathetic approach to teaching, understanding that students learn at different paces and in different ways.
• Strong time management and organizational skills to balance teaching, office hours, grading, and preparation of course materials.

 

Engineering Instructor Experience Requirements

Engineering Instructors are usually required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, with some institutions also requiring a Master’s degree in either Education or a specific engineering discipline.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience in the engineering field, often garnered through an internship or co-op.

Such professionals can also gain instructive experience from roles such as Teaching Assistants, Research Assistants, or Tutoring during their course of study.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are expected to have developed significant technical skills and knowledge in their respective engineering disciplines.

They may have gained this experience in roles such as Design Engineer, Project Engineer, or other engineering-related positions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the engineering field are often equipped with a comprehensive understanding of engineering principles and practices.

They may have gained some leadership or managerial experience, making them suitable for head instructor or department lead positions.

Experience in course development and curriculum design is often beneficial, as is experience in a university or college setting.

In addition, prior teaching experience, especially in the subject of engineering, is highly desirable.

For certain specializations, professional certifications or licenses may be required, with ongoing continuing education and professional development to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.

 

Engineering Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Engineering Instructors typically need a master’s degree in an engineering discipline, though a doctoral degree is often preferred, especially for universities and colleges.

To be an effective instructor, they must have a strong background in the principles and concepts of engineering including areas such as electrical, mechanical, civil, or chemical engineering.

It is also important for the instructor to have considerable practical experience in the engineering industry.

Such experience can help instructors provide real-world examples to their students and teach them about current trends and practices.

In addition to educational qualifications and industry experience, potential instructors often need teaching credentials.

The requirements for these credentials vary by state and institution.

Some positions may require Engineering Instructors to have a Professional Engineer (PE) license, especially if they are teaching at a university level.

To obtain this license, candidates must have a degree from an accredited engineering program, have relevant work experience, and pass several exams.

Instructors can also choose to continue their education and receive further certifications or training in specific areas of engineering.

This could be helpful in keeping up to date with the latest advancements in the field, as well as demonstrating their commitment to continuous learning and development.

Moreover, skills such as strong communication, patience, and the ability to simplify complex concepts are also crucial for this role.

 

Engineering Instructor Salary Expectations

An Engineering Instructor can expect an average salary of $77,440 (USD) per year.

The actual compensation may vary based on factors such as level of experience, educational qualifications, the institution of employment, and the geographical location.

 

Engineering Instructor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does an Engineering Instructor need?

Engineering Instructors typically require a master’s degree in an engineering field.

Some institutions may also require a PhD.

Additionally, it’s beneficial for an instructor to have professional experience in engineering to provide relevant and practical lessons.

They should also be licensed Professional Engineers if they are teaching courses that lead to a PE license.

 

What skills does an Engineering Instructor need?

Engineering Instructors should have a firm grasp of the engineering principles and concepts they will be teaching.

They need to have excellent communication and presentation skills to effectively teach complex engineering concepts.

It’s also crucial that they have strong interpersonal skills to facilitate discussions, and analytical thinking to create and grade comprehensive assessments.

 

What are the daily duties of an Engineering Instructor?

Daily duties of an Engineering Instructor include preparing and delivering lectures, creating and grading assignments and exams, advising students, and conducting research in their field of expertise.

They may also serve on academic or administrative committees, supervise graduate students, and attend professional conferences.

 

What qualities make a good Engineering Instructor?

A good Engineering Instructor is patient and able to explain complex concepts in a way that’s easily understandable to students.

They keep up-to-date with the latest developments in their engineering field.

They are also passionate about teaching and have the ability to inspire and motivate students.

Good instructors are also organized and have excellent time management skills to handle teaching, research, and administrative tasks.

 

How can I assess the teaching abilities of an Engineering Instructor during the hiring process?

A useful way to assess the teaching abilities of an Engineering Instructor is to ask them to conduct a sample lecture or presentation during the interview process.

This can provide a glimpse into their teaching style, communication skills, and knowledge in their field.

Additionally, look for any previous teaching experience or positive feedback from past students in their resume or references.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the true essence of being an engineering instructor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about teaching theories and concepts.

It’s about shaping the architects of the future, one lesson at a time.

Armed with our reliable engineering instructor job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But don’t stop just yet.

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each lesson imparted is a building block for the future.

Let’s construct that future. Together.

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