Drone Cinematography Instructor (Adjunct)
Communication Division: Film and Television Department
Location: Five Towns College, Dix Hills, New York
About Five Towns College:
Founded in 1972, Five Towns College is a private, coeducational, non-sectarian institution of higher education. The College serves the cause of music, media, and the performing arts. Additional areas of emphasis in teacher education, business, and the liberal arts and sciences are strongly aligned with the College’s overarching relationship with the arts and communication.
Located on a beautiful 40-acre campus in Dix Hills, the geographic heart of Long Island, New York, the College is a creative center for learning, which attracts artists and scholars from around the world who seek to be enriched by the unique educational experiences it offers.
Five Towns College offers associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs in eight major areas of study. The most popular degree programs include music, film/video, theatre arts, business management, and mass communication. Programs of study begin twice each year in the fall and spring following a traditional academic semester calendar. Summer, evening, and part-time learning opportunities are also offered. The College delivers classes in traditional, hybrid and blended formats.
The College holds an Absolute Charter granted by the New York State Board of Regents, and its programs of study are registered with the New York State Education Department. Five Towns College is institutionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The College also holds programmatic accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) and the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST). Its Business Division is a candidate for accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and its Court Reporting programs are approved by the National Court Reporters Association. Approximately 650 students enroll at the College each year, with about 200 residing on-campus in the Five Towns College Living/Learning Center.
You can learn more about Five Towns College at www.ftc.edu.
Position Overview
Five Towns College is seeking an experienced and passionate Drone Cinematography Instructor to teach and support curriculum development in cinematography for the BFA in Film and Television program. This part-time faculty role combines teaching, mentorship, and student engagement, with a focus on visual storytelling and technical excellence. The successful candidate will bring extensive industry knowledge and demonstrate a commitment to preparing students for careers in cinematography and filmmaking. Faculty are especially needed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of drone technology, cinematography techniques, and practical hands-on experience in flying drones and capturing cinematic footage.
Compensation: Adjunct/$3450 per 3-credit course
Key ResponsibilitiesInstruction and Curriculum Development
· Adjunct/teach 1–3 courses per semester in cinematography and related subjects.
· Develop, maintain, and update curriculum aligned with current FAA regulations and state laws regarding drone piloting.
· Use the College's Learning Management System (LMS) for course materials, grading, and student communication.
· Integrate evolving trends in camera technology, lighting, color grading, and virtual production workflows.
· Evaluate student performance and provide constructive feedback that fosters professional growth.
Program and Departmental Collaboration
· Collaborate with faculty and staff within the Film and Television Department to ensure a cohesive and contemporary educational experience.
· Participate in departmental meetings, student showcases, and other academic initiatives.
· Help cultivate an inclusive, innovative, and collaborative learning environment.
Equipment and Facility Oversight
· Guide students in the proper and safe use of professional drone and digital cinema equipment.
· Ensure best practices in camera and lighting techniques, and post-production workflows.
· Stay current with technological advancements, including LUT-based workflows, Davinci Resolve, and DIT protocols.
Qualifications
· Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Film, Cinematography, or a related field; a Master’s degree is strongly preferred.
· FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification required.
· At least five (5) years of professional experience creating cinematic film and video projects in various genres; news and sports experience a plus.
· Proficiency with professional camera systems, lenses, lighting, grip and camera support equipment.
· Prior college-level teaching or mentorship experience preferred.
· Strong communication skills and a collaborative, student-focused teaching approach.
Additional Qualifications
· Membership in IATSE Local 600 (International Cinematographers Guild) and/or the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) is highly desirable and considered a significant professional distinction.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit the following to [email protected] with “Drone Cinematography Instructor – Film and Television” in the subject line:
· Cover letter
· Resume/CV
· Portfolio or reel showcasing cinematography work
· Contact information for three professional references
Deadline
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The position will remain open until filled. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire.
Five Towns College is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. We strongly encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
Pay: $6,900.00 - $20,700.00 per year
Work Location: In person
