Ranken Technical College, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a private non-profit institution founded in 1907 by Samuel Cupples. It specializes in career-focused technical education, offering associate degrees, certificates, and bachelor's programs in fields like architecture, engineering technology, automotive, construction management, graphic arts, information technology, and manufacturing. With a student body of around 1,800, Ranken emphasizes hands-on learning through state-of-the-art labs and strong industry partnerships, preparing graduates for immediate employment in St. Louis' robust manufacturing and tech sectors.
The college's mission is to provide accessible, high-quality technical education that bridges the gap between classroom and workplace. Jobs at Ranken Technical College are centered on delivering practical training, supporting student success, and advancing technical innovation. Whether you're an experienced technician seeking to teach or an administrator passionate about career education, opportunities abound in this dynamic environment.
Established as a technical school by philanthropist Samuel Cupples, Ranken has evolved into a leader in vocational education. Over 115 years, it has adapted to industry needs, from early trades to modern STEM fields. Today, it serves the St. Louis community with a 104-acre campus featuring advanced facilities like the National Institute for Metalworking Skills center.
The mission focuses on 'excellence in technical education,' aligning jobs with real-world demands. Faculty and staff contribute to this by developing curricula with input from employers like Boeing and Anheuser-Busch, ensuring graduates (with 95% placement rate) meet local job market needs.
Ranken offers 20+ programs across six schools: Architecture & Construction, Automotive & Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, Graphic Arts & Design, Information Technology, and Transportation Logistics. These programs demand instructors with industry expertise to teach skills like CNC machining, HVAC systems, and cybersecurity.
Jobs here support these programs through teaching, lab management, and program development. For instance, automotive instructors lead training in electric vehicle technology, reflecting St. Louis' growing green manufacturing sector.
Career openings include full-time faculty, adjunct instructors, department chairs, lab coordinators, admissions counselors, and maintenance staff. Faculty roles focus on delivering technical instruction, while administrative positions handle student services and partnerships. Current listings often seek experts in welding, drafting, and network administration. Explore university job types for details on these positions.
Technical Instructor: A professional who teaches hands-on skills in vocational fields, combining industry experience with pedagogical methods to prepare students for certifications and employment.
Adjunct Faculty: Part-time educators hired per course or semester, often industry professionals bringing real-world knowledge to the classroom without full-time commitment.
CNC Machining: Computer Numerical Control machining, a process using programmed software to control machine tools for precise manufacturing, key in Ranken's programs.
ASE Certification: Automotive Service Excellence certification, a standard credential for automotive instructors demonstrating expertise in vehicle repair and diagnostics.
For instructor roles, a minimum bachelor's degree in a related field is required, though many positions prioritize associate degrees plus extensive industry experience (5+ years). Leadership roles may need a master's. Certifications like CompTIA A+ for IT or LEED for architecture are essential. PhDs are rare but valued for research-oriented adjunct positions. Ranken values practical credentials over advanced degrees, aligning with its technical focus.
While not research-heavy like universities, expertise centers on applied projects. Instructors contribute to industry collaborations, such as developing curricula for sustainable building or advanced manufacturing. Skills in emerging areas like additive manufacturing (3D printing) or renewable energy systems are highly sought, supporting St. Louis' innovation hub status.
Employers prefer 3-10 years of field experience, proven teaching ability, and student mentoring success. Publications in trade journals or grants for program equipment are bonuses. For example, automotive instructors with dealership management experience excel in preparing students for local jobs.
Core competencies include technical proficiency, curriculum design, student assessment, and safety training. Soft skills like communication and adaptability are vital for diverse classrooms. Proficiency in software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Python is common. Ranken seeks candidates who can foster teamwork and innovation.
Apply through Ranken's career portal or platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Submit resume, cover letter, transcripts, and references. Tips: Highlight quantifiable achievements (e.g., 'Trained 50 students to ASE certification'), customize for the program, and prepare for a teaching demo. Network at St. Louis job fairs. Follow up within a week. Use free resume template for formatting.
Ranken advances diversity via the Diversity Council, scholarships for underrepresented groups (e.g., women in welding), and partnerships with the St. Louis Agency on Training for Employment (SLATE). They host cultural events and aim for inclusive hiring, with 40% of students from diverse backgrounds, reflected in staff composition.
Employees enjoy flexible schedules, professional development stipends, health benefits, and tuition remission. Campus life features modern facilities, employee wellness programs, and proximity to St. Louis' Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and dining scene. Social committees organize events, fostering a supportive community for work-life harmony.
In summary, jobs at Ranken Technical College offer rewarding careers in technical education amid St. Louis' vibrant economy. Explore more at higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job to connect with opportunities.
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