Temporary Part 107 Drone Instructor

Required: Current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate in good standing; high school diploma or equivalent; with a minimum of two (2) years of experience operating small unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in a commercial, educational, or professional setting; knowledge of FAA regulations, airspace classifications, NOTAM procedures, and UAS safety practices; and the ability to communicate technical information effectively to individuals with varying levels of experience.

Equivalency: Associate’s degree or higher in Aviation, Aeronautics, Engineering Technology, Education, or a related field preferred. Prior teaching or instructional experience. Experience operating multiple drone platforms, familiarity with drone simulation software and learning management systems (LMS), and additional FAA certifications are also preferred. Any equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience approved by the Human Resources Department may be considered.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt  

Level:Nine (9)
 Salary: Hourly (DOE)

Background:

Located in Carlsbad, New Mexico, Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) is a newly independent public community college accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. A proud Hispanic Serving Institution, it awards certificates and associate degrees that serve the needs of its region and prepare students to transfer to programs at other colleges or universities. SENMC offers Early College and Dual Credit programs in collaboration with local high schools.

Southeast New Mexico College enjoys the strong support of its community, and has been awarded several grants, which include $11.7 million from the U.S. Department of Energy and several multimillion-dollar grants from the U.S. Department of Education for student support.

The college’s diverse employee pool includes 39 full-time faculty, 48 adjunct faculty, and 112 staff members. SENMC offers a generous benefits package which includes medical, dental, retirement, and college tuition reimbursement. More information on SENMC can be obtained from its website at https://senmc.edu.

Purpose and Scope:

Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) is seeking a qualified and knowledgeable Part 107 Drone Instructor to support Workforce Development and Continuing Education programming. This position is housed within the Workforce Development Division and serves adult learners, career changers, and industry professionals seeking to expand their skill sets in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) operations.

This position is responsible for delivering high-quality classroom and hands-on instruction to prepare students for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate examination and entry-level employment in the drone industry. The instructor supports workforce training initiatives by promoting student success, maintaining instructional quality, and ensuring alignment with current FAA regulations and industry standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Deliver classroom and field-based instruction covering FAA Part 107 regulations, airspace classifications, weather theory, emergency procedures, and small UAS operations.
• Facilitate hands-on flight training using college-provided or approved drone equipment in designated practice areas.
• Use a variety of instructional strategies to meet the needs of diverse adult learners.
• Administer practice knowledge exams and deliver structured feedback to support student preparation for the FAA written exam.
• Maintain accurate attendance and grading records while completing and submitting all required reports on schedule. 
• Collaborate with the Workforce Development team to review, update, and improve course content in alignment with FAA regulations and industry standards. 
• Recommend equipment, software, and simulation tools to support student learning.
• Assist in scheduling and coordinating field training sessions, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and operational guidelines. 
• Stay current with FAA regulations, emerging drone technologies, and industry trends; incorporate updates into course delivery as appropriate. 
• Foster a positive, inclusive learning environment that encourages student engagement and success. 
• Provide guidance to students on study strategies, exam registration, and career pathways in the UAS industry. 
• Respond to student inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of FAA Part 107 regulations, airspace systems, NOTAM procedures, and UAS safety practices.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical information to individuals with varying levels of experience. 
• Skill in delivering both classroom and hands-on technical instruction. 
• Ability to operate and demonstrate UAS equipment safely and effectively. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in maintaining records and documentation.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with faculty, staff, and program partners.

Work Environment and Physical Demand:

• Work is performed in both classroom and outdoor field environments.
• Outdoor instruction may occur in varying weather conditions. 
• Use of computer and instructional technology for extended periods.
• Ability to stand, walk, and demonstrate drone operations for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity and fine motor skills required for operating drone equipment and related technology. 
• Ability to communicate information orally and in writing.
• Ability to receive and interpret written and verbal instructions.
• Occasional bending, stooping, kneeling, or reaching
• May require flexible scheduling to support course scheduling needs.

Performing the essential functions of this position requires the use of a computer throughout most of the workday, the ability to navigate a typical office environment, significant amounts of interpersonal interaction including oral and written communication, and the ability to keep track of multiple tasks, projects, deadlines, information sources, and business processes. This job description is intended to be generic in nature and describe the essential functions of the job. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The essential duties, functions and responsibilities, and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.

Affirmative Action Statement:

 SENMC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.