Arts & Design Instructor (Woodshop & Performing Arts)

Build•Chicago, IL

6d•Onsite

About The Position

BUILD, Inc. is seeking a committed, self-motivated, and innovative Arts & Design Instructor (ADI) to plan and lead hands-on art instruction in woodshop, visual arts, creative design, and performing arts for youth and adults. The instructor will design adaptable curriculum, guide individual and group projects, and support participant-led builds, showcases, and performances. This role involves maintaining safe and well-organized creative spaces, teaching proper tool use and safety practices, and managing materials and timelines. The instructor will also serve as a mentor and positive role model, building respectful relationships that support creativity, confidence, and collaboration. Additionally, the role includes engaging families and community partners through various events and programs, and assisting with administrative and funding-related tasks such as attendance tracking, documentation, reporting, and general program support. The Arts & Design Instructor will report directly to the Manager of STEAM Education.

Requirements

High School Diploma required.
Minimum of 2 years of experience in arts education, youth development, or a related field.
Experience in mentoring or working with diverse youth populations is highly desirable.
Demonstrates proficiency across multiple fabrication and design disciplines, including woodworking, set construction, 3D design, and applied craft techniques.
Shows a strong aptitude and enthusiasm for learning new tools, materials, and processes.
Strong organizational and administrative abilities.
Ability to use technology and enter daily attendance into Cityspan and use other databases as required.
Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
Ability to successfully complete a background check and other required clearances.
Experience working directly with youth and adults in community-based, after-school, or out-of-school-time settings
Background in woodworking, design, theater, performing arts, or creative arts education
Strong youth and adult program facilitation, classroom management, and relationship-building skills
Commitment to youth development, equity, and BUILD’s mission of violence prevention
Ability to balance technical instruction with mentorship and social-emotional support.
Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times
Stand and walk for prolonged periods (up to 6–8 hours per day) during program hours, workshops, and/or activities.
Assist with setting up and moving program materials, supplies, and equipment as needed.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art, Education, Social Work, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Build authentic, consistent relationships with youth grounded in trust, respect, and accountability
Serve as a mentor and caring adult presence, supporting youth social-emotional learning, leadership, and personal growth
Create and maintain a trauma-informed, healing-centered, and inclusive learning environment
Model BUILD values and support youth in developing conflict resolution, communication, and teamwork skills
Connect youth to BUILD resources, staff, and wraparound supports as needed
Facilitate engaging, hands-on programs in woodshop, visual arts, creative design, and performing arts
Design and adapt curriculum that integrates skill-building, creative expression, and participant voice
Support participant-led projects, performances, showcases, and exhibitions that celebrate growth and community
Differentiate instruction to meet varied learning styles, ages, and ability levels
Maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming woodshop and creative learning spaces
Teach and enforce proper tool use, safety procedures, and shared responsibility
Manage materials, supplies, and project timelines with participants
Guide collaborative builds such as sets, props, installations, and group art projects
Support outreach events, community activations, showcases, and public-facing programs
Build positive relationships with schools, families, and community partners
Represent BUILD programs with professionalism and a youth-centered lens at offsite events
Track attendance, participation, and outcomes using BUILD systems (e.g., Apricot, Paylocity, Cityspan, etc.)
Document youth progress, creative work, and program impact
Reflect on programming effectiveness and collaborate with the BUILD team to strengthen youth outcomes