Virtual Reality Training Instructor

SEIU 32BJ Training Fund

New York

Part-time Virtual Reality Instructor

The 32BJ Training Fund is seeking qualified candidates for a part-time Virtual Reality instructor for classes taught in Manhattan, New York.

About Us:

Building Services 32BJ Benefit Funds (“the Funds”) is the umbrella organization responsible for administering Health, Pension, Retirement Savings, Training, and Legal Services benefits to over 100,000 SEIU 32BJ members. Our mission is to make significant contributions to the lives of our members by providing high quality benefits and services. Through our commitment, we embody five core values: Flexibility, Initiative, Respect, Sustainability, and Teamwork (FIRST). By following our core values, employees are open to different and new ways of doing things, take active steps to improve the organization, create an environment of trust and respect, approach their work with the intent of a positive outcome, and work collaboratively with colleagues.

The Funds oversees and manages $9 billion of dollars in assets, which are made up of many, varied and complex funds. The dollars come from a number of sources, including the property owners who pay into the funds on behalf of their employees, and as such, requires those who oversee and manage the money to be highly skilled financial management people.

For 2025 and beyond, 32BJ Benefit Funds will continue to drive innovation, equity, and technology insights to further help the lives of our hard-working members and their families. We use cutting edge technology such as: M365, Dynamics 365 CRM, Dynamics 365 F&O, Azure, AWS, SQL, Snowflake, QlikView, and more.

Job Summary:

The Virtual Reality Training Instructor is responsible for delivering engaging, student-centered instruction using Virtual Reality (VR) technologies and immersive learning platforms. The instructor will facilitate hands-on training utilizing VR headsets, simulation software, and interactive learning environments that support workforce development, safety training, technical skills acquisition, and professional growth.

The instructor is responsible for ensuring students can effectively utilize VR equipment, complete training activities, and achieve course learning objectives while maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment. The role aligns with the Training Fund's mission of providing innovative, high-quality training opportunities to members. This instructional focus builds upon the Training Fund's existing instructor responsibilities of delivering approved curriculum, assessing student progress, maintaining records, and supporting student success.

Responsibilities:

• Deliver instructor led VR based training using approved curriculum and lesson plans.
• Facilitate immersive learning experiences through VR headsets and simulation technologies.
• Instruct students on the safe and effective use of VR hardware, software, and related equipment.
• Guide students through virtual simulations, scenarios, and interactive exercises.
• Monitor student performance within our third party programs and provide coaching, feedback, and support. 
• Assess student progress toward course objectives and document outcomes.
• Troubleshoot basic VR equipment and software issues during class sessions.
• Ensure all VR equipment is properly maintained, inventoried, and stored at the conclusion of each session.
• Maintain attendance records, assessments, and training documentation in the Learning Management System (LMS).
• Collaborate with curriculum developers and other industry subject matter experts (Plumbing, Electricity, Carpentry, and more) to enhance VR learning experiences.
• Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for Virtual Reality (VR) training programs, continuously exploring emerging technologies, innovative instructional methods, and industry best practices to ensure training offerings remain relevant, engaging, and at the forefront of workforce development.
• Guide and support students in the effective use of VR headsets, simulation software, and related technologies, helping learners build confidence and proficiency with tools they may have never previously used while fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience using Virtual Reality training platforms and VR headset technologies.
• Experience utilizing gaming, simulation, or immersive technology platforms to facilitate learning, problem-solving, and user engagement is highly desirable.
• Strong instructional and facilitation skills.
• Experience teaching adult learners preferred.
• Experience with Meta Quest, Meta Quest 3/3S, and comparable VR platforms Required.
• Ability to explain technical concepts to learners with varying levels of technology experience including beginners.
• Strong problem-solving and technical troubleshooting skills.
• Comfortable working with any type of digital learning technologies and instructional software. 
• Expertise in workforce training, safety training, technical skills training, or related disciplines. These qualifications complement the Training Fund's existing expectations for subject matter expertise, teaching aptitude, and strong communication skills. 

Plus Qualifications:

• Experience working with or training skilled trades professionals in building operations and maintenance disciplines, including Plumbing, Carpentry, Electrical Systems, HVAC, OSHA Safety, Handyperson, Building Maintenance, or related trades.
• Knowledge of the tools, equipment, safety procedures, and real-world job functions associated with building service, construction, facilities maintenance, or skilled trade occupations is a strong plus.
• Experience collaborating with industry subject matter experts, union instructors, contractors, journey-level tradespeople, or workforce development professionals to develop and deliver technical training programs is highly desirable.

Soft Skills (Interpersonal Skills):

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong classroom management abilities. 
• Ability to engage with diverse adult learners. 
• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset. 
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment.

Education:

• Required
  • High School Diploma
• Preferred
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in one or more of the following: Commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment.
    • Educational Technology
    • Instructional Design
    • Computer Science
    • Information Technology
    • Game Design or Game Development
    • Digital Media or Interactive Media
    • Learning & Development
    • Workforce Education
    • Adult Education or Training
• Plus
  • Background in gaming, game development, VR content creation, or interactive technologies that support learner engagement and experiential learning.

Language Skills:

• Speak, read, write, and understand English
• Bilingual preferred

Reasoning Ability:

• High

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• Industry-specific credentials relevant to the courses being taught

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

• Under 1/3 of the time: Standing, Walking, Climbing or Balancing, Stooping, Kneeling, Crouching, or Crawling
• 1/2 to 2/3 of the time: Sitting, Reaching with Hands & Arms
• Over 2/3 of the time: Talking or Hearing
• 100% of the time: Using Hands

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities.

• 1/3 to 2/3 of time: Work near moving or mechanical parts, moderate noise.

COVID-19 Considerations:

• Record of completed COVID-19 vaccine or confirmed medical/religious exemption
• Compliance with current COVID-19 protocols of the organization

Classes Offered:

• Classes may be scheduled during weekdays, weeknights, or weekends. Instructors are not required to be available for all days and times; however, flexibility to teach across different schedules based on availability and program needs is preferred.

Locations:

• 25 W. 18th Street, Manhattan NY

Compensation:

• $50.00 per teaching hour 
• Paid preparation time 
• Paid in house training, coaching, and professional development opportunities