Adjunct Instructor: Intro to Tattooing

Part-time Starting January 2027
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Priority Screening: November 15, 2026 at 4PM EST



 

Position Summary:

SUNY Ulster, a two-year branch of the State University of New York located ninety miles north of New York City in the Catskill Mountains, is currently accepting applications for adjunct teaching assignments in the Fine Art/Visual Arts Department for ART 136 Introduction to Tattooing starting Spring 2027 and to establish a pool for future teaching assignments. This position is for a studio-based art elective and held in-person teaching.

Under the general supervision of the Fine Art/Visual Arts Department Program Coordinator, the adjunct instructor will provide instruction in accordance with course descriptions, outlines, class schedules, and Governing Board policy; evaluate progress of students concerning educational matters; and perform other instructional related duties as assigned.  The instructor may be assigned to the Stone Ridge and/or Kingston Center.



 

Course Description

            In this course, Introduction to Tattooing students will develop the following foundational skills, drawing, machine and needle handling, sanitation and design transfer.  This course will cover essential equipment, proper workspace setup, basic techniques like lining, shading, and color packing, and emphasizes the importance of health and safety protocols for both artist and client.



 

Learning Outcomes

• Gain familiarity with tattoo equipment and how to maintain it.
• Develop the ability to draw and create tattoo designs.
• Practice basic tattooing techniques like lining, shading, and color packing.
• Understand the principles of hygiene and safety in a tattooing environment.
• Develop critical thinking and reasoning skills to enhance their artistic decisions and design concepts.

 

General Course Goals

• History & Fundamentals: An overview of tattoo art, its history, and the mindset of a tattoo artist.
• Drawing & Design: Developing drawing skills specifically for tattoo designs and creating custom artwork.
• Equipment & Setup: Learning about tattoo machines, different types of needles, inks, and how to set up a safe and hygienic workstation.
• Sanitation & Safety: Understanding and implementing strict hygiene standards, sterilization, and safety protocols to prevent infections and allergic reactions.
• Stencil Application: Techniques for creating and applying stencils accurately and effectively on the body.
• Machine & Needle Techniques: Mastering machine operation, needle depth, hand speed, and practicing fundamental techniques like line work, shading, and color packing.
• Client Communication: Developing strong communication skills to understand client needs and ensure their comfort and safety during the tattooing process.
• Aftercare: Providing proper instructions and protocols for tattoo aftercare and healing to ensure lasting results.

 

Key Responsibilities:

• Meet each scheduled class and teach or conduct learning exercises for the entire period.
• Collaborate with the Program Coordinator to develop course projects, lectures, and demonstrations aligned with the course curriculum.
• At the beginning of the course, provide each student with a course syllabus that outlines projects, deadlines, grading rubrics, and other essential course information.
• Accurately keep required class records on attendance, withdrawal, and grading.
• Submit when due, all necessary reports such as attendance and grade reports, roll books, and class information sheets, and certify their accuracy.
• Contact the appropriate division chair or administrator in advance to make arrangements for unavoidable absences.
• Comply with all institutional policies, procedures, and deadlines.
• Give careful attention to all departmental and administrative communications by checking your SUNY Ulster email frequently.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts (MFA) or in a related field. 
• Three years of experience and active employment in the relevant field of study.
• Ability to teach using Brightspace, the College’s learning management system.
• Ability to teach day, evening and or weekend classes.
• Demonstrated commitment to active learning and innovative teaching
• Technological competency sufficient to carry out expectations of the position.
• Strong interest in teaching, mentoring, and working with community college students
• The ability to develop course assignments and a course outline around a pre-established curriculum
• Effective interpersonal, communication, and technology skills

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Fine Arts (MFA) or in a related field
• Actively working in the desired field of study.
• Experience with the techniques of Tattooing.
• Evidence of successful teaching at the college or university level.
• Familiarity with the Bright Space Learning Management System.

Salary: $1049.00 per credit

 

Application Process:

The position is open until filled. However, to ensure consideration, application materials should be received via email by November 15, 2026 at 4:00 pm EST to be given priority consideration. Applications received after the deadline are not guaranteed to be reviewed.  SUNY Ulster reserves the right to close, continue, cancel, postpone or restart the recruitment at any time.

Applicants must submit the following materials to be considered for the position:
 

• Resume or CV
• Cover letter which discusses your qualifications and interest in the position
• Contact information for three professional references

 We invite you to be part of a dedicated community of learners in an academic department that puts students first. Please go to www.sunyulster.edu for additional campus community information.

SUNY Ulster is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. The college encourages applications from all qualified applicants. This position is contingent upon adequate funding. Offer and assignment of employment is subject to verification of all information provided on the employment application, credentials, transcripts, fingerprint check, verification of the right to work in the United States and all other required pre-employment conditions are met.

Applicants who are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act and who, due to a disability, require accommodations for completing the application process, testing (if required for the position), or the interview, should notify the Human Resources Office 10 working days before the accommodation is required.

Neither the smoking of tobacco (nor other substances) nor the use of electronic vaporizers is permitted on the campus grounds.

SUNY Ulster does not reimburse applicants for travel, lodging or any other costs incurred by applicant to attend interviews.  All interviewing costs incurred will be the responsibility of the applicant. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview. Internal applicants are not guaranteed an interview.

Conditions of Employment

Employment with SUNY Ulster is not complete or official until applicants meet all pre-employment requirements, and the Board of Trustees has approved. Offer and assignment of employment is subject to verification of all information provided on the employment application, fingerprint check, verification of the right to work in the United States and all other required pre-employment conditions are met.


E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Securit