Fabrication-Woodworking Facilitator (I-Lab)

Operation Breakthrough•Kansas City, MO

7h•Onsite

About The Position

Operation Breakthrough is launching an innovative evening program designed to empower at-risk teens by teaching real-world, hands-on skills that prepare them for industry-recognized certifications and future careers. Areas of instruction include graphic design, product design, fabrication, woodworking, computer technology, digital media, mechatronics, Cyber Security, and automotive technology. Our mission is to provide meaningful opportunities for young people to explore their talents, develop job-ready skills, and gain the confidence they need to pursue post-secondary education or employment in high-demand fields. The Twilight/Evening Fabrication & Woodworking Facilitator is responsible for delivering high-quality, hands-on instruction to high school students in an urban core setting. This role focuses on teaching foundational and advanced fabrication and woodworking skills that prepare students to earn an industry-recognized certification and/or pursue entry-level employment or apprenticeships in skilled trades and related fields. The ideal candidate is a skilled practitioner and engaging educator who can translate real-world industry experience into an accessible, supportive, and safety-focused learning environment for youth.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience in fabrication, woodworking, carpentry, manufacturing, or a related skilled trade
Experience teaching, training, mentoring, or supervising youth or entry-level learners (formal or informal)
Strong knowledge of shop safety standards and best practices
Ability to work effectively with high school students from diverse backgrounds
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work evening/twilight hours consistently

Nice To Haves

Industry-recognized certifications (e.g., OSHA-10/30, NCCER, trade certifications, or equivalent)
CNC Design and Routing
Prior experience preparing learners for certifications or workforce entry
Background in workforce development, career and technical education (CTE), or youth programming
Bilingual skills a plus
Experience working in urban or community-based education settings

Responsibilities

Facilitate hands-on instruction in fabrication and woodworking, including the safe use of tools, machinery, and materials
Deliver curriculum aligned with industry standards and recognized certifications (e.g., OSHA-10, NCCER, woodworking or fabrication credentials, or similar)
Prepare students to meet certification requirements or demonstrate job-ready competencies by the end of the program year
Work on client connected projects with students
Create an engaging, inclusive, and culturally responsive learning environment for high school students
Model professional workplace behaviors, including punctuality, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication
Assess student progress through skills demonstrations, projects, and competency-based evaluations
Maintain a safe and organized workshop space in compliance with all safety regulations
Collaborate with program staff to support student retention, engagement, and workforce readiness
Participate in occasional meetings, training, and program evaluation activities