HVAC/R Instructor (Full-Time Preferred)

About the Role

Douglas Education Center (DEC) is launching a new HVACR program and seeking an experienced HVACR professional interested in teaching and mentoring the next generation of technicians. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to curriculum development and direction of a new HVACR program scheduled to begin Summer 2026.

This role is well suited for a skilled HVACR professional looking to transition from the field into education, or for someone with prior teaching or training experience who wants to help build a program from the ground up. Instruction takes place in industry-relevant, fully equipped HVACR training labs, selected and designed with input from industry professionals to reflect real-world systems and practices.

What You’ll Do

• Teach HVACR courses that combine hands-on lab instruction with classroom learning
• Prepare and deliver lessons aligned with curriculum objectives and current industry standards
• Instruct students with a range of skill levels and learning styles
• Evaluate student progress and provide constructive feedback
• Maintain a safe, organized, and professional lab environment
• Utilize instructional technology and digital tools to support classroom and lab-based learning
• Collaborate with academic leadership on curriculum development and program growth
• Use the school’s learning systems for attendance, grading, and student feedback
• Participate in required meetings, program activities, and graduation ceremonies

Program Content Includes

• Electricity Fundamentals
• Heating Systems
• Residential & Commercial Refrigeration
• Sheet Metal Fabrication
• Project Estimation and Load Calculations
• Motor Controls & Programmable Logic Controllers
• Hydronics & Chiller Systems

What We’re Looking For

Required:

• Minimum 3 years of hands-on HVACR industry experience related to subjects taught
• EPA certification (required)
• Strong practical knowledge of residential and/or commercial HVACR systems
• Ability to communicate clearly and work effectively with adult learners
• Comfort using basic technology for instruction and student tracking

Preferred (Not Required):

• Teaching or training experience
• Journeyman or Master HVAC license
• Experience across multiple areas of HVACR (service, installation, commercial, controls, etc.)

Why Join Us?

• Be part of launching a new HVACR program at an established school with over 120 years of history.
• Teach in an instructor-led, hands-on learning environment
• Work in industry-relevant, fully equipped HVACR labs built to industry standards
• Daytime schedule (no on-call, no nights in the field)
• Opportunity to contribute to curriculum development and program direction
• Make a direct impact on students entering a high-demand skilled trade

Compensation

Compensation is competitive and based on experience, credentials, and role level (Instructor or Lead Instructor).

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $24.00 - $28.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Strong practical knowledge of residential and/or commercial HVACR systems
• Ability to communicate clearly and work effectively with adult learners
• Comfort using basic technology for instruction and student tracking
• Experience across multiple areas of HVACR (service, installation, commercial, controls, etc.)

Experience:

• teaching or training: 1 year (Preferred)
• hands on HVACR industry: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• EPA Certification (Required)
• Journeyman or Master HVAC License (Preferred)

Work Location: In person