Associate Instructor

JOB OVERVIEW

Provides in-person instruction for the Graduate Jeweler (GJ) program creating a positive, constructive, and productive learning environment in which to guide student outcomes and deliver this On-Campus GJ Program.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Instructs the assigned On-Campus Graduate Jeweler program curriculum, utilizing and demonstrating a variety of manufacturing and repair equipment including, but not limited to, torches, files, saws, micro-motor, polishing equipment, machine and hand tools, audio-visual aids and other materials to supplement presentations and delivery of content, ensuring academic delivery adheres to established guidelines.
• Consistently exercises discretion and independent judgment within the defined scope of responsibilities consistent with GIA’s reputation, standards, and integrity.
• Responsible for the instruction of accredited and state-licensed vocational and provide a comprehensive education to students seeking careers in the gem and jewelry industry.
• Manages class set-up and maintain cleanliness of workstation, student desks and instruments (e.g., gathering of materials, managing equipment / materials appropriately, etc.).
• Ensures administrative class management responsibilities are completed in a timely manner (e.g., attendance, assessments, posting grades, documentation, etc.)
• Addresses student concerns promptly and effectively communicate them with NY director or appropriate Education staff as needed for further action.
• Evaluate student work, grade assignments or projects, engage in discussions with students about their grades and academic progress, and coach and support their learning, engagement and methods of improvement.
• Use active listening with student questions and comments. Respond to student questions. Prepared for questions beyond the immediate scope of the lecture. Sincere and friendly; Projects enthusiasm while teaching and answering questions; Maintain and foster sensitivity and respect for a culturally diverse classroom environment.
• Will participate in student orientation and/or graduation activities, as needed
• May support other functional areas, as needed, and travel occasionally for instructional/development purposes.
• Stays current with industry trends (follows industry publications, etc.)
• Professional Development: Meets annual professional development requirements as defined by management.

TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES (Knowledge, Skills & Abilities)

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Comprehensive expertise in jewelry manufacturing processes, repair techniques, use of specialized equipment, with an understanding of the jewelry industry’s standards and best practices. Proficient with a variety of bench tools and skills; setting and repair techniques, and have the ability to fabricate jewelry in metal, with expertise in utilizing rolling mills and machine tools and hand tools, such as engravers.
• Proficient computer skills utilizing Microsoft Office tools such as, e.g., MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.  Be well-prepared to use the school’s AV equipment for presentations, Learning Management System.
• Ability to demonstrate a command of theory and contemporary knowledge
• Ability to communicate complex information in a simplified and clear manner; present course material and provide feedback to students; communicate effectively with students on achievement or lack of achievement of goals, able to develop and modify communication strategies to deliver difficult messages to students. 
• Ability to create positive interactions with students; actively communicates with co-workers, students or management in a timely & professional manner
• Continually improves performance, develops self-awareness, takes personal accountability for decisions, actions & outcomes. Responds to feedback as a growth opportunity.
• Time management / organizational skills: Manages time and priorities appropriately - approaches work in an organized and systematic manner.  Able to monitor student progress (strengths / weaknesses) in an effort to effectively organize classroom to meet student needs
• Able to adapt to change; maintaining attention to detail.  Able to adapt learning styles to meet student needs.
• Able to settle differences in productive ways while minimizing disruptions. Ability to communicate and enforce policies in the classroom; willingness to confront issues and resolve them maintaining a positive and effective learning environment
• Teamwork: Interface well with others (other departments like facilities, admissions, education technology, etc.), uses active listening, knows who to go to and how to communicate issues/needs.
• Maintains & fosters sensitivity and respect for cultural diversity in and out of the classroom
• Identify potential problems, articulate / classify issues and determine next steps; analyze the data gathered and reach a solution or provide a summary for a management decision when required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
• A minimum of 3 years of related practical jewelry industry experience is required.
• Bachelor's degree (B.F.A. preferred); Graduate Jeweler (GJ) or Graduate Jeweler Gemologist (GJG) diploma preferred.
• Experience in education and/or training preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / WORK ENVIRONMENT (if applicable)

• Work is performed in a designated professional jewelry classroom environment
• Extensive use of office equipment to include computer, calculator, copier, fax, and other business-related machines and software.

Pay: $82,500 annually

An Equal Opportunity Employer
All employment decisions are made without regard to unlawful considerations of race, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Disclaimer: This job description indicates in general terms, the type and level of work performed as well as the typical responsibilities of employees in this classification and it may be changed by management at any time. Other duties may also apply. Nothing in this job description changes the at-will employment relationship existing between the Company and its employees.