Broadband Technology and Heavy Equipment Operations Instructor
Highlands College - Trades & Technical
Full-Time
Fiscal Year Contract: - 12 month Appointment
Montana Technological University provides a comprehensive benefits package for all eligible positions that includes health, dental and vision insurance, mandatory retirement plan with employer contribution, partial tuition waiver, and a wellness program.
Applications received by 07/19/2026 will be guaranteed full review and consideration. Applications received after that date may be considered until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
DUTIES:
- Primary instructional focus will be Heavy Equipment Operations. Experience in fiber splicing and warehousing is preferred; however, candidates with the aptitude and ability to train in these areas will also be considered.
- Provide both classroom based and hands on training aligned with industry standards.
- Assist in curriculum development, revision, and continuous improvement to meet workforce and employer needs.
- Operate and demonstrate equipment such as loaders, dozers, excavators, and skid steers safely and effectively.
- Ensure safety compliance across all training activities, including outdoor and field based instruction.
- Evaluate student performance and provide feedback to support skill development and job readiness.
- Collaborate with faculty, program leadership, and industry partners to align training with labor market demand.
- Support recruitment, retention, and completion efforts for diverse student populations.
- Maintain training equipment, materials, and facilities.
- Participate in grant related reporting and program activities as needed.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum 5 years of industry experience in broadband infrastructure, line work, or heavy equipment operation.
- Demonstrated ability to safely operate heavy equipment including loaders, dozers, excavators, and skid steers.
- Ability to instruct or train in technical, trades, or safety related fields (or willingness to develop instructional skills).
- Basic computer skills for instructional delivery, communication, and reporting.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
- Knowledge of workplace safety standards and practices.
- Able to perform the physical duties of this role with or without reasonable accommodation, including lifting, climbing, and working outdoors in varied environments.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Industry certifications in fiber splicing, flagging, rigging, safety instruction, or related fields.
- Fiber Optic Association certification or ability to obtain.
- Teaching experience in a community college or workforce training environment.
- Familiarity with broadband infrastructure systems and tools.
- Experience collaborating with employers, unions, tribal organizations, or educational partners.
- CDL Class A or ability to obtain.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Ability to climb in and out of heavy equipment with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times with or without reasonable accommodation.
- May occasionally be required to stand, walk, climb stairs, reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Hands on outdoor work in Highlands College training yard, partner job sites, or rural locations.
- Occasional evening or weekend travel to training sessions depending on learner and employer needs.
- Must be able to lift equipment and work safely in a physical training environment with or without reasonable accommodation.
For full consideration application materials must be complete.
Please include:
- Cover letter addressing qualifications,
- Resume
- Contact information for 3 professional references.
Application Requirements
For full consideration application materials must be complete.
Any offer of employment is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Montana Tech is committed to providing a working and learning environment free from discrimination. As such, the University does not discriminate in the admission, access to or conduct of its educational programs and activities nor in its employment policies and practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, creed, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), veteran status, gender, age, political beliefs, marital or family status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation or preference. In support of the University's mission to be inclusive and diverse, applications from qualified minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are highly encouraged. Montana Tech makes accommodation for any known disability that may interfere with an applicant's ability to compete in the hiring process or an employee's ability to perform the duties of the job. In compliance with the Montana Veteran's Employment Preference Act, Montana Tech provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.
Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at Montana Tech as legally required (e.g., Form I-9). Montana Tech will require proof of authorization to work in the United States before final hiring.
- Further, based on the September 19, 2025, Presidential Proclamation and accompanying guidance from the USCIS and Dept. of State, the University may not be able to offer H-1B sponsorship. Particularly the University is not able to pay the $100,000 payment accompanying new H-1B visa petitions.
Veterans Employment Preference
To claim veteran's preference please complete the employment (veteran's) preference form located on the employment page and email to humanresources@mtech.edu. You must include the job title of the position in which you are applying.
Download Employment (Veteran's) Preference Form (PDF)
Request an Accommodation
To request an accommodation for the application or interview, please contact Cathy Isakson at 406-496-4380 or email cisakson@mtech.edu
Why Work at Tech?
Help meet the changing needs of society by providing a transformative student experience by helping develop leaders for tomorrow by advancing science, engineering and technology.
Benefits Package
In addition, Montana Tech offers an attractive benefits package* which includes:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with low deductibles and comprehensive coverage.
- Generous employer contribution toward monthly health care benefits worth $6.08 per hour.
- 5.9% retirement employer contribution for eligible employees
- 11 Holidays per year
- 3 weeks of Annual Leave to start
- Generous sick leave policy that can be used for sick children, doctor and dentist appointments as well as bereavement.
- 6 credits of coursework free per year (fees not included)
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Reduced tuition for dependents after 4 months of employment for eligible employees
- Employee Assistance and a Wellness Program
- Optional Retirement Plan for eligible employees
- Possible remote work days with supervisor approval and eligible positions.
*Benefits are dependent on position type and terms and conditions of eligibility.
About Montana Tech
Montana Technological University, Butte Montana, is nestled in the Heart of the Rocky Mountains along the Continental Divide, where I-15 and I-90 intersect. We are home to the largest National Historic District in the country. Montana Tech is a special focus institution with a reputation for excellence and value. Montana Tech is ranked #1 in the nation by CollegeNET.