DESIGN THINKING, ENGINEERING & ARCHITECTURE INSTRUCTOR

DESIGN THINKING, ENGINEERING & ARCHITECTURE INSTRUCTOR Independent Contractor | Grades 3–5 EYL 365 Project is seeking an experienced and engaging instructor to facilitate a hands-on Design Thinking, Engineering, Architecture, and Skilled Trades program for third- through fifth-grade students in the East of the River community. This project introduces students to career pathways and foundational concepts in architecture, engineering, construction, skilled trades, STEM, and workforce development. The ideal candidate can transform technical concepts into age-appropriate, interactive learning experiences that keep students actively engaged. *SCHEDULE* - Monday through Thursday - Must be available from 3:45–5:00 p.m. - One hour of direct programming each day - In-person contract position - Must arrive at least 10–15 minutes before programming *PROGRAM CONTENT* The instructor will guide students through the following program areas: - Design thinking and creative problem-solving - Architecture and community planning - Engineering design and product testing - Construction fundamentals and skilled trades - Workplace and project-site safety - Measurement, scale, structure, and spatial reasoning - STEM career exploration - Teamwork, communication, and workforce-readiness skills - Industry-related vocabulary and concepts *HANDS-ON PROJECTS MAY INCLUDE* - Blueprint and floor-plan portfolios - Bridge and tower load-testing challenges - Tiny home or youth center models - Community park models - Digital and physical project portfolios - Wooden phone stands - Desk organizers - Planter boxes - Additional age-appropriate architecture, engineering, and construction projects *KEY RESPONSIBILITIES* - Facilitate structured, hands-on lessons for students in grades 3–5. - Teach architecture, engineering, construction, and skilled-trade concepts using age-appropriate language. - Guide students through the full design process: identify, imagine, plan, build, test, improve, and present. - Demonstrate the safe and appropriate use of tools, building materials, and equipment. - Implement learning stations, small-group challenges, and collaborative projects. - Introduce students to relevant technical vocabulary and career pathways. - Help students develop blueprints, prototypes, models, and project portfolios. - Maintain an organized, safe, and student-centered learning environment. - Follow the EYL 365 Project workshop structure: SEL check-in, warm-up, main activity, stations or project-based learning, and reflection. - Monitor student participation and provide support throughout each activity. - Maintain accurate attendance, complete required program recaps, and communicate successes or concerns. - Prepare materials before each workshop and properly organize supplies afterward. - Collaborate with EYL 365 Project staff and site partners. - Support a culminating presentation or showcase of student work. *REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS* - At least three years of experience working with elementary-aged students. - Professional, instructional, or practical experience in one or more of the following areas: - Architecture - Engineering - Construction - Carpentry or woodworking - Skilled trades - Industrial or product design - STEM education - Design thinking - Project-based learning - Experience leading hands-on building, design, or engineering projects. - Ability to explain technical information in an engaging and age-appropriate manner. - Strong classroom management and student-engagement skills. - Ability to manage multiple project stations and keep students engaged throughout the workshop. - Knowledge of basic safety procedures for tools and construction materials. - Dependable, organized, professional, and able to follow a structured curriculum. - Ability to complete required background checks and youth-program clearances. *PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS* - Bachelor’s degree, associate degree, professional certification, apprenticeship training, or relevant industry credentials. - Experience teaching architecture, engineering, construction, or skilled trades in an after-school or youth-development setting. - Experience using digital design, drafting, modeling, or portfolio-building programs. - Familiarity with blueprints, measurements, scale drawings, prototyping, and structural testing. - Experience supporting students from diverse backgrounds and communities. - Current or previous employment in architecture, engineering, construction management, carpentry, or a related skilled trade. *IDEAL CANDIDATE* The ideal candidate is creative, energetic, patient, and genuinely excited about introducing young learners to architecture, engineering, construction, and skilled-trade careers. This individual should be able to combine professional or industry knowledge with strong teaching skills, making each workshop interactive, relevant, and enjoyable. *POSITION TYPE* Independent contractor position. Contract hours are based on the confirmed program schedule. Contractors are responsible for maintaining professional communication, arriving on time, following program requirements, and submitting all required documentation. Pay: $60.00 - $75.00 per hour Expected hours: 4.0 – 8.0 per week Benefits: * Flexible schedule * Professional development assistance Work Location: In person