Construction Trainer - YouthBuild

LearningWorks • Portland, ME

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

LearningWorks is seeking a Construction Trainer to provide hands-on construction instruction and mentorship to YouthBuild participants. This role combines workforce training, youth development, and community impact by helping students gain practical construction experience while contributing to meaningful projects in the community. This role is primarily in person, working directly with students in classrooms, workshops, and active jobsites, with occasional opportunities for remote administrative work and planning. Successful candidates understand that relationship-building is foundational to this work. Some program participants may initially demonstrate hesitation, inconsistent engagement, or limited readiness to participate due to prior educational experiences or personal barriers. Staff must be able to build trust, maintain clear expectations, and create a structured and supportive learning environment that encourages persistence and growth.

Requirements

• Experience in construction trades, carpentry, or construction management
• A relationship-centered approach to youth development
• Patience, flexibility, and the ability to remain calm and supportive during challenging situations
• Strong communication, mentorship, and conflict-resolution skills
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and trauma-informed practices
• Ability to motivate and engage young people with varying levels of readiness and participation
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to work closely with students, staff, and community partners
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in education, construction, youth development, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with youth in educational, workforce, or community-based settings
• Demonstrated experience in construction trades or construction management
• Valid Maine driver's license with a clean driving record and ability to transport students in agency vehicles
• Ability to lift 35–50 pounds and work in active construction environments

Nice To Haves

• NCCER Instructor Certification
• OSHA certifications
• Experience in workforce development or alternative education settings
• Experience towing trailers

Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging, hands-on construction instruction in classroom, shop, and field settings
• Supervise students on construction and rehabilitation projects
• Promote safe jobsite practices and proper use of tools and equipment
• Mentor and coach youth in professional, academic, and personal development
• Build supportive and consistent relationships with students while maintaining accountability and structure
• Support student engagement, teamwork, and workplace readiness
• Collaborate with community partners, contractors, and workforce organizations
• Assist with lesson planning, project coordination, and program documentation
• Help foster an inclusive, relationship-centered culture within the program

Benefits

• Unlimited PTO after 90 days of employment
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match up to 3% after one year of employment
• Immediate eligibility to contribute to retirement savings
• Medical and dental insurance with very low employee premiums
• No cost access to HRA
• Access to FSA and Dependent Care FSA
• Flexible scheduling options
• Employer Provided Short-term disability coverage
• Paid state holidays
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Retirement planning resources and support

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree