Automation Technology Full-time Instructor at Southeast Technical College – Sioux Falls, South Dakota

The Automation Technology Instructor is responsible for providing high-quality instruction, advising, and mentorship to students pursuing careers in industrial automation, advanced manufacturing, and automated systems. This position plays a key role in maintaining and advancing a dynamic program that integrates classroom theory with practical application and industry engagement.
The instructor will collaborate with faculty, advisory boards, and industry partners to ensure curriculum relevance, program excellence, and student career readiness consistent with Southeast Technical College’s mission, institutional goals, and accreditation standards.

• Develop, deliver, and continuously improve curriculum in industrial automation systems; PLC programming and troubleshooting; sensors, actuators, and motor controls; robotics and automated systems; industrial networking and HMI systems; and safety standards and best practices.
• Facilitate engaging instruction aligned with established learning objectives and institutional standards.
• Create and manage syllabus materials, course content, and assessments in coordination with the Advanced Manufacturing Team.
• Design assignments, exams, and activities that effectively measure student learning outcomes.
• Evaluate and report student performance promptly through the learning management system.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and safe learning environment that supports student success, retention, and professional growth.
• Collaborate with faculty and administration to review and update textbooks, courseware, and curriculum to align with industry expectations and STC standards.
• Adhere to institutional guidelines and best practices for in-person and online instruction.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Education:
  1. Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Automation, Operational Technology, Mechatronics, or Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field required.
  2. Or an associate’s degree in a related discipline with a minimum of three (3) years of industry experience is advanced manufacturing or a directly related field.
• Experience:
  1. Minimum of three (3) years of industry experience with PLCs and industrial control systems, electrical and mechanical systems, and automation safety standards required.
  2. Postsecondary teaching experience preferred.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  1. Strong understanding of contemporary manufacturing processes and industry trends.
  2. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster collaboration across academic and industry partners.
  3. Proficiency with educational technology, including learning management systems and instructional software.
  4. Commitment to student success, innovation in teaching, and continuous professional development.

Work is performed primarily in a classroom, a manufacturing learning lab, and an office setting, with occasional travel for site visits/field trips, professional development, and student supervision.