Instructor - Agriculture Mechanics

FVTC • Appleton, WI

8d • $73,900 - $86,900 • Onsite

About The Position

Instructors are responsible for the facilitation of student learning and the on-going development of curriculum that meets the needs of students and employers utilizing instructional strategies that promote student success. 38 Week Contract

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Mechanics, Agriculture Engineering or related field is preferred. Candidates with an associate degree or equivalent experience may be considered, provided they are willing to obtain a bachelor’s degree within a specified timeframe.
• At least two years of relevant industry experience is required, with at least one year occurring within the past five years.
• Note: One year of occupational experience may be waived if the candidate has at least two years of post-secondary teaching experience in the appropriate occupational field within the last five years, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that demonstrates comparable knowledge and skills.
• Familiarity with ag-tech tools, including precision agriculture software, GPS/GIS systems, and diagnostic technologies used in modern agricultural equipment.
• Must demonstrate the ability to plan, organize, and deliver high-quality instruction, including the development of relevant, competency-based curriculum.
• Demonstrate proficiency in using a Learning Management System (LMS) to support instruction, communication, and student engagement.
• Exhibit strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with students, colleagues, industry partners, and community members.
• Adapt effectively to changing instructional needs, schedules, and technologies to meet student and program demands.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and pass an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check.

Nice To Haves

• Teaching or training experience is preferred.
• A Class A CDL is a plus; willingness to obtain one is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Learning Facilitation – Foster student learning by developing appropriate instructional strategies to meet diverse student needs and support student engagement.
• Create learning experiences that integrate instructional technologies to maximize student success and multiple delivery methodologies such as hybrid, in-person, virtual, and on-line course delivery.
• Teach courses covering electronically controlled diesel engines, drive trains, hydraulics, electrical systems, air conditioning, materials handling, and harvesting equipment.
• Provide hands-on training in the operation and maintenance of farm equipment including tractors, skid-steers, combines, and precision agriculture systems.
• Integrate computer-based diagnostic tools and instructional technologies to enhance student learning.
• Explain complex mechanical and agricultural concepts in accessible, engaging ways for diverse learners.
• Embrace continuous improvement by integrating innovative teaching methodologies, tools, and delivery formats.
• Assessment - Assess student learning and provide regular feedback to help students be successful.
• Use data to measure quality outcomes related to student persistence, retention, completion rate, course success, and learning and to design improvement strategies based on the evidence.
• Evaluate student performance through practical demonstrations, written assessments, and project-based work often in a shop/lab environment.
• Monitor student progress toward graduation and serve as a visible advocate for agriculture through participation in community events and outreach activities.
• Curriculum Development - Develop and continually revise curriculum and instructional materials that are competency-based, current, consistent with employer expectations, and aligned with the college policy on level of required documentation to successfully prepare graduates for their chosen career fields.
• Classroom Management – Fulfill assigned schedule, maintain accurate student attendance and grade records, maintain instructional environment with emphasis on safety, housekeeping, and equipment security, and ensure opportunities for student/engagement evaluation.
• Ensure course materials (including textbooks) are available to students.
• Team Participation – Support the college by engaging in division, department and team activities, and meetings including planning, development, and budgeting, and staying current with internal and external changes and initiatives.
• Business & Community Engagement - Build and maintain ongoing relationships with community, industry, and clinical partners by participating in advisory committees, external meetings, business visits, and community groups
• Collaborate with staff to recruit students, participate in recruitment events, and proactively promote the College and our programs.
• Student Success & Support – Serve as an advocate for students and engage in activities that help students reach their goals by collaborating with Student Services staff to retain students, close achievement gaps, and help all students be successful.
• Advise students regarding class schedules, career information, internships, and other program-related information.
• Professional Development - Continually improve knowledge and skills in emerging trends, current occupational practices, and teaching through professional development activities, networking with regional industry leaders, and the integration of new techniques and technology.
• Maintain Faculty Quality Assurance System requirements and licensure required to maintain individual and program accreditation.
• Perform routine maintenance or minor repairs on classroom, lab, or field equipment to ensure safe and effective instructional use.
• Demonstrate flexibility in teaching assignments, including potential instruction during summer terms, evenings, or at off-campus locations as needed.
• Support and instruct in specialized training programs such as Farm Safety & Equipment Operation (Tractor Safety), contributing to community outreach and youth education.
• Monitor and manage inventory of tools, parts, and instructional supplies to support program operations.
• Assist in organizing and coordinating program-related events, student competitions, or extracurricular activities that enhance student engagement and visibility of the program.
• Perform other duties as assigned that support the mission of the college and the success of the Agricultural Equipment Technology program.
• Take primary responsibility for the maintenance, organization, and housekeeping of the Agriculture Shop and related instructional spaces.
• Assist with Cropland operations, including spring planting and fall harvest, as part of instructional and program support activities.
• Prepare and submit required reports accurately and on time, including student records, program documentation, and compliance materials.

Benefits

• Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with retirement contributions to the Wisconsin Retirement System and 403(b)/457 plan options.
• Employees enjoy paid sick leave, holidays, and bereavement leave.
• We offer life and disability insurance, with options for additional coverage.
• Work-life balance is supported through flexible schedules or remote work options (for some positions) and wellbeing programs.
• Professional development opportunities include training, certifications, and tuition reimbursement.
• Additional perks at the Appleton Main Campus include an onsite health and wellbeing clinic, dental clinic, fitness center, Parent/Child Center (onsite child care), library, café, printing services, Trilogy Salon & Spa, and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees