Position Title: Drone Technician Instructor (grant funded)
Contract Term: 9-month Academic year
Accountable To: Dean of CTE
Summary of Position: The Drone Technician Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality instruction in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations, maintenance, repair, and safety. This position includes developing and updating curriculum, teaching hands-on and theory-based courses, assessing student learning, and ensuring alignment with industry standards and FAA regulations. The instructor will guide students in building strong technical skills in drone assembly, troubleshooting, flight operations, and data applications. Additional responsibilities include maintaining lab equipment, supporting program growth, and fostering a learning environment that promotes student success, professionalism, and workforce readiness.
Key Responsibilities
Instruction & Student Learning
· Teach UAS and drone technician courses that provide students with the skills and knowledge needed for industry-recognized certifications in drone operations, maintenance, and repair.
· Supervise students during hands-on labs, field operations, and controlled flight training exercises.
· Use scenario-based training to simulate real-world applications such as inspection, mapping, search and rescue, and aerial data collection.
· Prepare course materials, assessments, and maintain accurate records within the Canvas LMS.
· Provide timely feedback, promote safety and professionalism, and support student learning, competency development, and retention.
Curriculum Development
· Develop and update drone technology curriculum based on current FAA regulations, industry standards, and emerging UAS technologies.
· Collaborate with faculty and industry partners to ensure program content remains relevant, practical, and aligned with workforce needs.
· Create performance-based assessments and integrate ethics, employability skills, cultural awareness, and safety best practices into training.
· Integrate the culture and values of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa into the curriculum in ways that support and reflect tribal higher education.
Canvas Course Development
· Build and maintain complete Canvas course shells with modules, assignments, assessments, and instructional content.
· Ensure accessibility, monitor engagement, and provide timely support through Canvas tools.
Assessment & Student Learning
· Develop and assess student learning outcomes.
· Report assessment results, evaluate performance through multiple methods, and provide academic support.
Program, Institutional & Service Responsibilities
· Participate in program assessment, accreditation, recruitment, and retention efforts.
· Support student organizations, community outreach, and partnerships with tribal and law enforcement agencies.
· Participate in college events, professional development, and committees.
· Maintain professional credentials and stay current in public-safety practices.
· Perform other duties as assigned.
Scholarship
· Pursue ongoing professional development and contribute to public-safety education through writing, presentations, conferences, or proposals.
Minimum Qualifications
· Must have a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or equivalent UAS/drone certification.
· A minimum of two years of professional experience in drone operations, maintenance, or repair.
· Experience in real-world applications of drones, such as surveying, inspection, mapping, or aerial data collection.
· Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills with a commitment to student success.
· Ability to collaborate with colleagues, industry partners, and community organizations.
· Ability to travel, work flexible hours, and conduct instruction at various sites, including outdoor flight locations.
· Commitment to the mission, culture, and values of Turtle Mountain College and tribal higher education.
Preferred Qualifications
· Teaching, training, or mentoring experience in technical or STEM fields.