Part-time Contract Trainer III: HVAC/Refrigeration

Job Details

Founded in 1986, St. Charles Community College (SCC) has a reputation as one of the best two-year colleges in the state of Missouri. SCC's service area includes a six-county region with a population exceeding 540,000. SCC's main campus, located in Cottleville, has won architectural awards for its innovative, contemporary design. The college's Dardenne Creek Campus features the Center for Healthy Living and the Field to Table Institute. Opening Fall 2025, the Innovation West Campus located in Wentzville features the Regional Workforce Innovation Center. With a focus on innovation, St. Charles Community College is a leader in delivering high quality education in a state-of-the-art learning environment. The success of SCC is rooted in the mission of serving the community by "focusing on academic excellence, student success, workforce advancement, and life-long learning within a global society."

SCC is seeking qualified candidates for the multiple positions of Part-time Contract Trainer III: HVAC/Refrigeration. The ideal candidate(s) will teach lecture/labs and practical hands-on training in various HVAC and refrigeration topics and will be responsible for teaching HVAC/R principles, safety procedures, tools and equipment, servicing, and installation techniques. The candidate will also develop class projects, technical assignments, and laboratory instruction to prepare students for careers in the HVAC/R industry.

The trainer will facilitate engaging classroom and laboratory instruction, mentor learners through technical projects, and ensure safe and effective use of equipment and tools. The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with practical teaching or training experience and a passion for experiential learning.

Courses may be daytime, evening, or Saturdays depending on the need. Part-time appointments are made on a semester-by-semester (as needed) basis.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Deliver instructional classroom and practical hands-on training in HVAC/R topics.
• Develop and deliver curriculum that complies with industry-recognized procedures.
• Teach various HVAC/R principles, safety procedures, tools and equipment, service, and installation techniques.
• Develop class projects, technical assignments, and laboratory instruction.
• Prepare students to enter the HVAC/R workforce.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and performance.
• Provide a supportive and engaging learning environment for all students.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Fully licensed HVAC trade school experience in HVAC or a related field with five (5) years of experience in the HVAC/R industry. Relevant work-related experience, recognized certifications, registered apprenticeship, and/or licensures may be considered in lieu of educational requirements
• Working knowledge of HVAC/R systems, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of residential and/or commercial systems
• Understanding of refrigeration cycles, electrical systems, controls, and airflow principles
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals
• Demonstrated mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills in HVAC/R applications
• Ability to work independently and manage instructional assignments
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office products
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
• Ability to work flexible hours when necessary
• Demonstrated basic literacy skills sufficient to support instruction, documentation, and communication

PREFERED QUALIFICATIONS

• Fully licensed HVAC technician with ten (10) years of residential and commercial experience; or Associate's degree or advanced trade school experience along with at least five (5) years of experience in the HVAC/R industry
• Experience delivering hands-on instruction in HVAC/R systems, electrical controls, or related training environments
• Industry experience with commercial HVAC systems, refrigeration systems, or building automation/controls
• Familiarity with EPA regulations (e.g., EPA 608 certification) and applicable codes and standards
• Experience using diagnostic tools, digital gauges, and HVAC software or building management systems (BMS)
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., EPA 608, NATE, HVAC Excellence) or experience aligning training with employer and workforce needs

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods in a lab, classroom, or mechanical environment
• Ability to lift, carry, and move equipment and materials up to 50 pounds
• Ability to safely operate, demonstrate, and supervise HVAC/R equipment and tools
• Manual dexterity to handle tools, gauges, electrical components, and system controls
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces as needed for instruction
• Visual acuity sufficient to read gauges, wiring diagrams, and system components
• Ability to communicate effectively in lab or field environments, including hearing and responding to instructions and safety signals
• Ability to work in typical HVAC/R environments, including exposure to heat, cold, noise, and mechanical systems