Industrial Technology 9-12
West Ottawa Public Schools
Job Description
Position Type: High School Teaching/Industrial Technology Date Posted: 3/5/2026 Location: High School Campus Date Available: 08/24/2026 Closing Date: Until filled Position: 9-12 Industrial Technology Posting Dates: March 5, 2026 Reports to: High School Principal Beginning: August 2026 Hours: WOEA Teacher Contract POSITION OVERVIEW The High School Industrial Technology Teacher provides hands-on, project-based instruction to students in grades 9-12 across a range of industrial technology courses, including metals, machining, engineering/design, and related construction pathway experiences in our state-of-the-art facility. This role maintains a safe, modern lab environment while fostering a maker mindset, problem-solving, and real-world craftsmanship. A unique feature of this position is the potential for teaching an innovative elective called "Gone Boarding," a design/build course where students apply the engineering design process to create functional products through prototyping, fabrication, and iterative improvement.
This is a new course and whether it runs in 26-27will depend on the selected candidate. Essential Responsibilities Teach multiple levels of Industrial Technology courses (9 through 12), which may include: Metals / Welding / Fabrication Machining / Manufacturing Processes Engineering / Design / Drafting (CAD) Other industrial technology courses as assigned Other flexible course offerings depending on the candidate's background and experience. Design and deliver standards-aligned, project-based learning experiences that build technical skill, creativity, and workplace readiness.
Differentiate instruction to support diverse learners and ensure equitable access to hands-on learning. Integrate employability skills (communication, collaboration, safety culture, problem-solving, project management) into daily instruction. Assess student learning using a variety of methods (performance tasks, rubrics, portfolios, demonstrations).
Lab Safety, Operations, and Maintenance Establish and enforce a rigorous safety certification process for all students prior to equipment use. Maintain a safe, organized lab/shop environment consistent with district expectations and applicable safety standards. Inspect, maintain, and perform routine upkeep on shop tools and equipment; submit work orders and coordinate repairs as needed.
Manage materials and inventory; support purchasing and responsible use of consumables and supplies. Model and teach proper storage, cleanup procedures, and responsible tool/equipment handling. Collaboration & Professional Responsibilities Collaborate with CTE colleagues, counselors, and administrators to support student course planning and pathway completion.
Support student leadership opportunities, CTSO/competition participation (where applicable), and community showcases. Communicate with families regarding student progress, expectations, and safety requirements. Participate in professional learning, department meetings, school improvement work, and other duties as assigned.
Required Training/Experience/Endorsements (One of the Following) Option A: Annually Authorized CTE Instructor (ACA eligibility) Ability to become Annually Authorized as a CTE Instructor, including a minimum of two (2) years / 4,000 hours of recent work experience in woodworking, drafting, construction, or other related fields within the construction pathway. OR Option B: Michigan Teaching Certificate with one of the following endorsements Career and Technical Education: Building and Construction Trades, Carpentry, Manufacturing, or other industry sectors OR General Education: Industry and Technology Education (TE), Industrial Technology (IX), or Vocational Technology (VT) Qualifications & Skills (Preferred/Expected) Demonstrated ability to teach and supervise students in a hands-on shop environment. Strong knowledge of metals, machining/manufacturing processes, measurement, and fabrication fundamentals.
Ability to read, interpret, and teach from technical drawings/prints; CAD experience preferred. Commitment to a high-trust, high-structure safety culture and consistent enforcement of procedures. Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills; ability to motivate students with varied interests and skill levels.
Willingness to stay current with evolving fabrication technologies, tools, and industry practices. Work Environment Shop/lab environment with noise, dust, and moving equipment when machinery is in operation. Requires consistent attention to safety, PPE expectations, and supervision of students using tools and machines.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS Salary and benefits will be commensurate with experience and in accordance with district policies. APPLICATION PROCEDURE Interested candidates should apply online through the West Ottawa Public Schools employment portal and submit: • Cover letter • Resume • Professional References • Copies of relevant certifications/licenses (if applicable) Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: Reaching : Extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction.
Lifting : Raising objects from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position to position. This factor is important if it occurs to a considerable degree and requires the substantial use of the upper extremities and back muscles. Grasping : Applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm.
Talking : Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; those activities where detailed or important spoken instructions must be conveyed to other workers accurately, loudly, or quickly. Hearing : Perceiving the nature of sounds at normal speaking levels with or without correction, and having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communication, and making fine discriminations in sound. Repetitive motions : Making substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
The worker is subject to environmental conditions. The worker should provide consistent and reliable in-person attendance.