Instructor, Machining Skills, Level 1 in Kent, Washington at AJAC-Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships

Instructor, Machining Skills, Level 1

Department: Programs
Reports To: Apprenticeship Preparation Programs Manager

Type: Full-time, salaried

About AJAC

AJAC is an industry-driven apprenticeship, not-for-profit organization, founded on the belief that mastery occurs on the job. Through pre-apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship, adult apprenticeship, and on-the-job training, all people should have the opportunity to earn competitive wages, find meaningful and fulfilling work, and pursue lifelong learning.

AJAC is based in Kent, WA and serves the manufacturing industry and surrounding communities statewide. AJAC serves approximately 400 apprentices per year at close to 300 companies, partnering with 6 community colleges to ensure that all apprentices receive college credits while working towards a journey-level certificate.

About the Role

We’re seeking a Machining Skills Instructor, Level 1 to expand our service area, specifically in Snohomish County. This is an entry level (Level 1) instructor position who will be a critical part of our full-time instructor team to provide an expanding portfolio of manufacturing training services to manufacturers and participants from the general public related to apprenticeship preparation, GD&T, technical drawings and other related topics.

In this role, you will learn how to provide training using AJAC’s curriculum and be assigned to a training portfolio prioritizing locations across Snohomish County. Training programs include AJAC’s Focused Applied Skills Training (FAST) which may provide 4-16 hours of training on specific topics for employers and Manufacturing Academy which offers a 10-week apprenticeship preparation training for adults new to the manufacturing industry. You will be part of the Apprenticeship Preparation team of five experienced, full-time instructors and a larger network of over 40 part-time adult apprenticeship instructors. In addition to instruction, you will contribute your insights through team meetings that inform program and curriculum development. You’ll play a key role in skilling up Washingtonians into and through gainful career paths in advanced manufacturing.

Work Location & Flexibility

This position will require mostly in-person engagement across various training locations predominantly in Snohomish County but may also require some regional travel across the Puget Sound region as needed. Non-training time may be done from home.

• Remote work: Estimating about 25% of time for planning, meetings, and administrative tasks
• In-person engagement: Approximately 75% of time will require travel across Snohomish County and occasional travel in the Puget Sound region. Activities include: training with clients at various program and employer partner sites.

The ideal candidate is comfortable working both independently and collaboratively across virtual and in-person settings.

What You’ll Do

Instruction and Curriculum Delivery

• Deliver prepared instruction using AJAC’s standardized curriculum to teach topics including safety, shop math, introduction to machining (manual mill and lathe), blueprint reading, precision measuring, safety, technical drawings, GD&T, and workplace readiness.
• Ensure course objectives and required competencies are met within the scheduled timeline.
• Ensure participants are always learning and demonstrating safe practices in the machining facility.
• Ensure timely sharing of prepared lesson plans in advance of training.
• Adjust teaching methods to accommodate a diverse student population, including those from academically, culturally, and economically varied backgrounds.
• Instruct students on productive work habits and skills identified by industry partners to support long-term career growth.
• Incorporate and reinforce a zero-tolerance policy on harassment, disruptive and/or hostile behavior, ensuring an inclusive and respectful learning environment.

Class and Materials Management

• Ensure classroom and shop areas are clean, organized, and safe prior to each session.
• Confirm all instructional materials, tools, equipment, and supplies are prepared and functioning properly before each class. After class, confirm all instructional materials are returned neatly to their designated storage container or carrier.
• Maintain inventory of tools and supplies and workbooks; prepare and submit supply lists as needed in advance and completion of each cohort so that tools and supplies may be delivered and/or refilled in a timely manner to your shop and classroom.
• Ensure instructional aids (e.g., handouts, tests) are ready and secure; maintain the integrity of all grading materials and promptly submit them to the Manager.
• Maintain a current shared work calendar to reflect all training days and related program or training activities and events.

Program Operations and Support

• Serve as an effective AJAC representative and collaborator in relation to AJAC team members, employer partners, community partners, educational partners, funders and other stakeholders who may host or support AJAC instruction activities.
• Monitor student performance, attendance, and progress; refer students as needed when academic or personal support is needed.
• Evaluate students fairly and equitably, providing feedback to support development.
• Communicate classroom attendance challenges or disciplinary concerns promptly to the Program Manager.
• As needed, assist the Program Manager in having all students complete all application and funding paperwork.
• Meet with the Program Manager prior to, during, and after each cohort to align on instructional goals, course logistics, and student outcomes.
• Communicate regularly with the Program Manager regarding curriculum updates, supply needs, equipment issues, and instructional suggestions.
• Work proactively with staff to coordinate and facilitate guest speakers and facility tours when applicable.
• Participate in team meetings, instructor training, and professional development sessions to stay current with AJAC policies and best practices.
• Support program info sessions and be available for occasional AJAC-sponsored events such as career fairs and other recruitment activities.
• Lead or Co-Lead organizing and implementing graduations as needed.
• Monitor and respond to AJAC communications on a timely basis.

Qualifications

We’re looking for someone with:

• Journeyman level industry experience in machining and production occupations.
• Production experience using GD&T, manual mill and lathe operations.
• Experience teaching machining skills (manual mill and lathe), especially GD&T and technical drawings highly preferred.
• Must be able to pass a background check as required for specific contracts
• Must be current or willing to get current with vaccinations per employer client requirements
• Forklift certified highly preferred.
• OSHA-10 certified highly preferred.
• CPR/First Aid trainer certified highly preferred.
• Strong communication skills, especially comfortable authentically engaging with diverse adults with varying degrees of skills and experience in the manufacturing industry.
• Computer proficient, especially using Microsoft Outlook and Teams applications.
• Highly organized and able to manage time and priorities effectively.
• Collaborative, team-oriented, and solutions-focused outlook
• Adaptability and comfort navigating changes in schedule.
• Responsive to feedback and supervision.

AJAC’s Core Competencies

All team members are expected to demonstrate:

• Ethics: Treat all with respect, inspire trust of others, work with integrity
• Professionalism: Communicates effectively, presentable and approachable
• Customer Service: Responsively support students, partners, and stakeholders
• Planning & Organization: Prioritize effectively and execute with attention to detail
• Safety and Security: Observe safety procedures, determine appropriate action

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:
$71,000 – $73,000 annually (commensurate with experience)

Comprehensive Benefits Package Includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)
• Retirement plan (e.g., 401(k) with employer contribution/match)
• Flexible and hybrid work options
• Opportunities for advancement and leadership development

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of people across WA while helping AJAC develop new programs and initiatives that will connect them to meaningful career pathways. You’ll be part of a collegial, mission-driven team at the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Together, we are dedicated to innovation, equity, and workforce development across the state and beyond.

Additional Information

• Annual performance goals will be established in partnership with your supervisor
• Ongoing professional development, including required annual anti-harassment training

Apply Today

If you’re ready to help shape the future workforce and expand opportunities in the manufacturing industry, we encourage you to apply!