Sewing instructor (PAID POSITION)

The Sewing Instructor will be responsible for teaching participants in **The Art of Tailoring** program the technical skills and industry knowledge needed to become proficient in tailoring, alterations, and garment construction. This role includes hands-on instruction, curriculum development, and mentoring students through the pre-apprenticeship, apprenticeship, and business incubation phases.

This is an in-person paid position. We are located in Long Island City, NY. We are teaching a class of 25 system impacted youth ages 18-24.

 
 
 
 

Responsibilities & Expectations:

  • Instruction & Training 
      - Teach foundational and advanced sewing techniques, including pattern making, draping, and garment construction.  
      - Provide guidance on operating **industrial and domestic sewing machines** as well as other tailoring tools.  
      - Demonstrate and supervise alterations, repairs, and custom tailoring.  
      - Ensure all students understand fabric selection, cutting, pressing, and finishing techniques.  

  • Program Support  
      - Incorporate digital design tools (e.g., Adobe Illustrator for fashion sketches) where applicable.  
      - Adapt teaching methods to different learning styles and provide individualized support.  
      - Collaborate with program staff to assess student progress and adjust lessons accordingly.  

  • Business & Career Preparation  
      - Introduce students to **small business ownership** concepts, including pricing, marketing, and customer service for tailoring businesses.  
      - Support students in designing and producing their own garments or small clothing lines.  
      - Mentor students on **apprenticeship and employment opportunities** in tailoring and fashion.  

  • Program Administration & Safety 
      - Maintain an organized and safe classroom environment.  
      - Ensure all students properly use and maintain sewing machines and equipment.  
      - Track attendance and provide progress reports.  
      - Assist with program showcases, fashion exhibits, or business incubator events.  

 
 
 

Qualifications:

  • Required: 
      - 3+ years of professional sewing, tailoring, or garment construction experience.  
      - Experience teaching sewing skills in a classroom, workshop, or apprenticeship setting.  
      - Proficiency in using **industrial sewing machines, sergers, and hand-sewing techniques**.  
      - Strong understanding of fabric types, pattern-making, and garment construction.  
      - Ability to work with diverse communities, especially system-impacted and LGBTQ+ youth.  

  • Preferred: 
      - Experience with fashion design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, CAD programs).  
      - Previous experience running or working in a tailoring business.  
      - Knowledge of **ethical and sustainable fashion practices**.