Graduate Jeweler Associate Instructor

GIA (Gemological Institute of America)•New York, NY

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Provides in-person instruction for the Graduate Jeweler (GJ) program, creating a positive, constructive, and productive learning environment to guide student outcomes and deliver the on-campus program. The instructor teaches accredited and state-licensed vocational curriculum for students pursuing careers in the gem and jewelry industry, using and demonstrating manufacturing and repair equipment and other instructional materials while adhering to established academic guidelines. The role includes classroom and administrative management, evaluating and grading student work, discussing student progress, and coaching students toward improvement. The instructor responds to student questions and concerns, communicates issues to appropriate Education staff, and fosters an inclusive, respectful classroom. The position may involve participating in orientation or graduation activities, supporting other functional areas, and occasional travel for instructional or development purposes. The instructor also stays current with industry trends and meets annual professional development requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 3 years of related practical jewelry industry experience.
Comprehensive expertise in jewelry manufacturing processes, repair techniques, specialized equipment, and jewelry industry standards and best practices.
Proficiency with bench tools and skills, setting and repair techniques, and fabricating jewelry in metal; expertise using rolling mills, machine tools, hand tools, and engravers.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, and ability to use school audiovisual equipment and a Learning Management System.
Ability to demonstrate command of theory and contemporary knowledge.
Ability to explain complex information clearly, present course material, provide feedback, communicate student achievement or lack thereof, and adapt communication strategies for difficult messages.
Ability to interact positively and communicate with students, coworkers, and management in a timely and professional manner.
Strong time-management and organizational skills, including monitoring student progress and organizing classroom instruction to meet student needs.
Ability to adapt to change and different learning styles while maintaining attention to detail.
Ability to resolve differences productively, communicate and enforce classroom policies, and address issues while maintaining an effective learning environment.
Ability to work collaboratively across departments and communicate issues and needs appropriately.
Sensitivity and respect for cultural diversity in and out of the classroom.
Ability to identify and classify potential problems, determine next steps, analyze information, and reach a solution or provide a summary for management decisions when needed.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree; B.F.A. preferred.
Graduate Jeweler (GJ) or Graduate Jeweler Gemologist (GJG) diploma preferred.
Experience in education and/or training preferred.

Responsibilities

Teach the assigned on-campus Graduate Jeweler program curriculum using demonstrations, equipment, audio-visual aids, and supplemental materials while following established academic guidelines.
Exercise discretion and independent judgment consistent with GIA’s reputation, standards, and integrity.
Provide vocational education to students seeking careers in the gem and jewelry industry.
Set up classes and maintain clean workstations, student desks, instruments, equipment, and materials.
Complete class administration in a timely manner, including attendance, assessments, grades, and documentation.
Address student concerns promptly and communicate them to the NY director or appropriate Education staff as needed.
Evaluate student work, grade assignments and projects, discuss grades and academic progress, and coach students on learning and improvement.
Listen and respond to student questions and comments, including questions beyond the immediate scope of lectures; teach with enthusiasm and maintain a respectful, culturally sensitive classroom.
Participate in student orientation and/or graduation activities as needed.
Support other functional areas as needed and travel occasionally for instructional or development purposes.
Stay current with industry trends and publications.
Meet annual professional development requirements defined by management.