Instructor - Industrial Automation & Robotics (TCAT)

We have an opening for an Instructor - Industrial Automation & Robotics (TCAT) at our TCAT Chattanooga/Chattanooga State campus!

Our Purpose - We support and empower everyone in our community to learn without limits.

Our Values:

We cultivate a welcome and caring environment.

We care about the well-being of each other.

We instill trust through integrity and transparency.

We encourage fearless innovation and resilience.

We collaborate to build a better future.

Our Mission - We are Chattanooga State, a dedicated team that delivers accessible, innovative learning opportunities that surpass expectations. Together, we enrich the lives of students, and their families; develop a talented workforce; and partner with our community to lead boldly into the future.

Position Overview:

Chattanooga State seeks a dedicated and knowledgeable Associate Instructor in Industrial Automation and Robotics to join our team at the Chattanooga campus. This role is instrumental in equipping students with the skills and expertise needed for successful careers in automation and robotics. You will have the unique opportunity to develop and deliver a dynamic curriculum that reflects industry standards in a hands-on learning environment.

As faculty, you will lead students through rigorous technical instruction and practical applications, guiding them to master essential industry competencies. In addition to instruction, you will collaborate with faculty on curriculum enhancements, mentor students in career planning, and contribute to the ongoing development of Chattanooga State’s community-focused, innovative programs. This role offers an opportunity to make a lasting impact on students, helping them achieve their career goals while also supporting workforce development within the local community.

Essential Functions:

Holistic Student Support

• Advise and mentor students on career pathways in automation and robotics, offering guidance on certifications and technical specializations based on individual interests and industry demand.
• Provide personalized academic support to students, including targeted instruction on complex problem-solving, real-time system diagnostics, and precision control in automated systems.
• Support job placement efforts through connections with local industry partners, assisting with resume development, interview preparation, and sourcing potential internships or apprenticeships.
• Facilitate student engagement in competitive skills programs like SkillsUSA and promote involvement in technical honor societies such as NTHS to reinforce technical proficiency and leadership skills.

Teaching Excellence

• Deliver in-depth lectures and hands-on lab training ranging from the very basic of mechanical and fluid power systems, to the advanced topics such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Robotics Integration, Industrial Ethernet Networking, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and Automated Control Systems.
• Evaluate student comprehension and technical proficiency through regular assessments, troubleshooting exercises, and practical project-based learning, maintaining detailed records of progress and achievement.

Program Innovation

• Design and refine course modules that incorporate cutting-edge industry technologies and align with evolving workforce standards, such as Industry 4.0, IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things), and data-driven automation solutions.
• Collaborate on the selection of technical resources, including PLC programming software, robotic simulators, electromechanical kits, and other specialized instructional tools.
• Lead the creation and regular revision of course syllabi, aligning curriculum with program objectives and integrating virtual labs, simulation exercises, and real-world case studies through the college’s eLearn Learning Management System (LMS).
• Actively contributes to the college’s professional development initiatives, sharing insights from industry partnerships to support continuous improvement within the program.
• Serve on program advisory committees, contributing to the alignment of curriculum with local industry needs and fostering strong partnerships with regional businesses and community stakeholders.

Fiscal Stewardship

• Provide technical expertise in program and budget planning, ensuring that the selection and maintenance of lab equipment reflect current industry requirements and operational safety standards.

Organizational Culture

• Actively participate in college-wide initiatives, supporting accreditation and compliance standards, such as the Council on Occupational Education (COE) reporting and program assessment processes.
• Engage with industry organizations, participate in technical workshops, and attend relevant conferences to enhance instructional methodologies and bring real-world insights to students.
• Pursue ongoing training and certifications in relevant technical fields, staying current with innovations such as AI in Robotics, predictive maintenance technologies, and advanced motion control.
• Execute other responsibilities as required to support the college's mission and uphold high standards in technical education.

Position Requirements:

Education and Technical Expertise

• Completion of a one-year diploma program or associate’s degree in a field related to Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, Robotics, or Industrial Electricity, OR Completion of a USDOL (United States Department of Labor) registered apprenticeship in mechanical or electrical maintenance, providing a solid foundation in trade-specific skills and professional competencies.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in automation and industrial maintenance, with at least three years as a maintenance technician or licensed (journeyman) electrician with an LLE certification, or ten years of documented expertise in industrial automation, robotics, or electrical systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with digital tools used for technical documentation and presentations.

Technical Skills and Knowledge

• Proficiency with mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and motor controls. Experience with automation controls, programmable logic control (PLC), and human machine interfaces (HMI).
• Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills in complex automated environments, including working knowledge of sensors, actuators, industrial control software, and data acquisition systems.
• Familiarity with industrial safety standards and electrical codes NFPA 70E and OSHA regulations.
• Willingness to become certified in NCCER and obtain related NC3 certifications.

Instructional and Curriculum Development Skills

• Ability to design and implement training modules that align with current industry standards, with experience in using Learning Management Systems (LMS) for online course delivery, assessment, and material distribution.
• Experience with virtual labs, online simulations, and technical courseware to enhance student engagement in both physical and remote learning settings.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Post-secondary or secondary teaching experience in equivalent technical courses, ideally with a focus on hands-on lab instruction and skills-based learning.
• Proficiency with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), robotic systems, servo and stepper motors, VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives), and networked automation protocols (e.g., Modbus, Ethernet/IP).

Salary Range: $55,983 - $67,181

Salary: Commensurate with experience and according to the salary guidelines of the Tennessee Board of Regents.

* All applicant submissions must include a CV/Resume, References, and Unofficial Transcript attachments. *