Operation Breakthrough are hiring a
Product Design Facilitator (Ignition Lab)
Position Title: Product Design (Part-Time)
Schedule: 2.5 hours per evening, M-Th (5:15-7:45)
Program Overview
Operation Breakthrough is launching an innovative evening program designed to empower at-risk teens by teaching real-world, hands-on skills that prepare them for industry-recognized certifications and future careers. Areas of instruction include graphic design, product design, fabrication, woodworking, computer technology, digital media, and automotive technology. Our mission is to provide meaningful opportunities for young people to explore their talents, develop job-ready skills, and gain the confidence they need to pursue post-secondary education or employment in high-demand fields.
Position Summary
The Twilight/Evening Product Design Facilitator delivers hands-on, project-based instruction in product design, guiding high school students through the full design process—from user research and ideation to prototyping and presentation. This role prepares students to earn industry-recognized certifications and/or demonstrate job-ready skills aligned with careers in product design, industrial design, UX/UI, or related fields. The ideal candidate blends creative problem-solving, technical skill, and real-world design experience with a passion for mentoring youth.
Required Qualifications
- Experience with Onshape or a similar industry CAD software (AutoCAD, Fusion 360, Rhino 3D, SketchUp, etc)
- Experience with 3D printing technologies, including basic troubleshooting and how to perform maintenance on 3D printer lab equipment
- Professional experience in product design, industrial design, UX/UI, or a related field
- Experience with design tools, prototyping methods, or CAD/software platforms
- Experience teaching, mentoring, or facilitating learning for youth or emerging designers
- Strong communication and facilitation skills
- Ability to work consistent evening/twilight hours
Preferred Qualifications
- Industry-recognized certifications in design, UX/UI, or related tools
- Experience working with clay and ceramic projects in a classroom setting
- Experience preparing learners for portfolio or workforce readiness outcomes
- Background in workforce development, CTE, or youth-focused education
- Experience working in urban or community-based settings
- Bilingual skills a plus
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare students on how to safely use digital fabrication equipment, including FDM 3D printers and laser cutters
- Facilitate instruction in the product design process, including user research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and iteration
- Teach relevant design tools and technologies (e.g., CAD software, Figma, prototyping tools, or design frameworks)
- Guide students in creating functional prototypes and design documentation
- Align instruction with industry standards and recognized credentials where applicable
- Prepare students to demonstrate workforce-ready skills through capstone projects or portfolios
- Incorporate teamwork, design critiques, and presentation skills reflective of industry practice
- Foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment for high school students
- Model professional behaviors such as collaboration, problem-solving, and time management
- Assess student progress through project milestones, design reviews, and final presentations
Work Schedule & Compensation
4 nights per week (M-TH) during the program year (mid-August through the end of May, with the summer months off)
Compensation: Competitive hourly rate based on experience and certification.
Working Conditions
Indoor Lab functional work area
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of an employee. Operation Breakthrough is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment with Operation Breakthrough is “At Will”.
