Instructor, Gemology (Traveling & On-Campus)

** The level for this role will be determined based on the candidate's experience and qualifications. Depending on their background, the position could be offered at a higher level, such as a Senior Instructor role. As a result, the compensation range may also be adjusted to align with the final role and level.

Purpose Statement

This role is intended for current instructors. Provide a positive, engaging, and effective learning environment for students participating in GIA Traveling Lab programs, on-campus laboratory classes, professional development and alumni seminars, and Gemology education programs. Deliver high-quality instruction that reflects GIA’s standards of excellence, supports student success, and upholds the Institute’s reputation for educational integrity.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Traveling Education Programs (40%)

• Travel domestically and internationally to deliver accredited laboratory classes, professional development courses, and alumni seminars.
• Coordinate training logistics with Education Coordinators, including travel arrangements, client communications, shipping schedules, and classroom readiness.
• Receive, set up, troubleshoot, operate, and dismantle gemological and technical training equipment at off-site locations.
• Facilitate engaging instructor-led training sessions using a variety of instructional methods and delivery formats.
• Teach gemology courses and seminars utilizing gemological instruments including microscopes, spectroscopes, refractometers, polariscopes, dichroscopes, and other instructional tools.
• Ensure training materials, equipment, and gemstones are properly handled, secured, and prepared for shipment before and after programs.
• Represent GIA professionally while building strong relationships with students, alumni, and corporate partners.

On-Campus Instruction (20%)

• Deliver instruction for On-Campus Gemology Programs, accredited laboratory classes, professional development courses, and alumni seminars.
• Operate and demonstrate gemological equipment and instructional technologies to support student learning.
• Maintain classroom readiness through proper setup, teardown, organization, and inventory management.
• Perform routine cleaning, calibration, and minor maintenance of classroom and laboratory equipment.
• Support special projects and departmental initiatives as assigned.

Student Success, Administration & Program Excellence (40%)

• Deliver curriculum consistent with GIA educational standards, policies, and academic integrity requirements.
• Foster an inclusive, respectful, and supportive classroom environment that promotes student engagement and success.
• Provide academic guidance, coaching, and constructive feedback to help students improve performance and achieve learning objectives.
• Assess learner progress through quizzes, examinations, practical evaluations, and classroom participation.
• Proctor examinations and accurately process student assignments, assessments, and grades through the Learning Management System (LMS).
• Verify and submit grades, attendance records, and required documentation in accordance with established procedures and timelines.
• Addressing student concerns promptly and collaborate with Education leadership and student support teams to ensure appropriate resolution.
• Maintain accurate training records, attendance reports, learner evaluations, and program documentation.
• Collaborate with instructional leaders, subject matter experts, and curriculum developers to support continuous program improvement.
• Participate in instructor development programs, departmental meetings, and ongoing professional education to remain current on industry trends and instructional best practices.
• Complete administrative responsibilities, including expense reporting and travel documentation, in a timely manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Competencies (Skills & Abilities)

• Advanced knowledge of diamonds, gemstones, gem identification methodologies, and the jewelry industry.
• Strong instructional, presentation, and facilitation skills with the ability to engage diverse learner populations.
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively in both classroom and seminar environments.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to assess student performance, identify learning challenges, and provide targeted coaching and support.
• Strong classroom management skills with the ability to foster an inclusive and positive learning environment.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize competing responsibilities, and adapt to changing business needs.
• Effective collaboration and partnership skills when working with colleagues, leadership, and cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and instructional technologies.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in maintaining records, grading, and administrative processes.
• Ability to safely set up and operate classroom, laboratory, and audiovisual equipment.
• Ability and willingness to travel extensively and adapt to a variety of learning environments and cultural settings.
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, accountability, and sound judgment in all interactions.

Minimum Qualifications

Required

• Graduate Gemologist (GG) diploma.
• Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience within the gem, jewelry, or related industry.
• Previous experience delivering training, instruction, education, or presentations to adult learners.
• Ability to satisfy all instructional requirements established by applicable regulatory, accrediting, and institutional standards.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Additional GIA credentials such as Applied Jewelry Professional (AJP), Jewelry Manufacturing Arts (JMA), Graduate Jeweler (GJ), or equivalent industry certifications.
• Experience teaching or facilitating training in a mobile, customer-facing, or travel-based environment.
• Experience using Learning Management Systems (LMS) and educational technologies.

Pay Range: $105+ depending on the level

An Equal Opportunity Employer
All employment decisions are made without regard to unlawful considerations of race, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Disclaimer: This job description indicates in general terms, the type and level of work performed as well as the typical responsibilities of employees in this classification and it may be changed by management at any time. Other duties may also apply. Nothing in this job description changes the at-will employment relationship existing between the Company and its employees.