Workplace Literacy ESOL Instructor

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Established in 1933, the IRC has grown to operate in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to providing assistance to those in need. The organization focuses on various areas including health, education, economic wellbeing, and safety, with a mission to help people affected by conflict and disaster to recover and rebuild their lives. The IRC is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability in its operations, ensuring that all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Job Overview:
The Workplace Literacy ESOL Instructor plays a crucial role in providing integrated English language instruction tailored specifically for non-native English speakers. This position is part of the Workplace Literacy Project at the IRC, which collaborates with employers in the Atlanta area to enhance the productivity of their workforce by supporting English Language Learners. The instructor is responsible for developing and customizing curriculum and instructional materials that meet the diverse needs of students enrolled in the program. This includes maintaining partnerships with employers, recruiting students, managing registration, tracking attendance, and assessing student progress. The instructor will work part-time, totaling 18.75 hours per week, and will report to the IET and Workplace Literacy Supervisor of the Adult Education Program. The course schedule will be established in collaboration with employer partners and the Adult Education team, incorporating both on-site and hybrid delivery methods to accommodate various learning environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The major responsibilities of the Workplace Literacy ESOL Instructor include delivering integrated ESOL instruction that combines English language lessons with job skills and workforce preparation. The instructor will plan and prepare curricula and lesson plans for mixed-level classes, ensuring that the learning needs of students are met across a range of English proficiency levels, from basic to advanced. The instructor will document student progress towards established employer milestones, orient and conference with current and potential students, and assist them in completing necessary intake and enrollment forms. Additionally, the instructor will administer English language assessments to measure and track student progress, maintain accurate attendance records, and document case notes and assessment data. The instructor will also facilitate student learning activities that promote cultural and community knowledge, maintain open communication with adult education team members, and report regularly on program goals and student progress. Participation in staff meetings and professional development opportunities is also expected, along with assisting with new client orientations and training.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Workplace Literacy ESOL Instructor position must possess a Bachelor’s degree (4-year) as a minimum educational requirement. While a certificate in Adult Education, TEFL, TESL, or TESOL is preferred, relevant professional experience in education and/or human services is strongly preferred. Experience working with immigrants or refugees is also highly desirable. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a strong desire to support vulnerable individuals and families, possess enthusiasm for adult education and language learning, and have an interest in issues related to immigrants, refugees, and the resettlement process. Strong communication skills are essential, as the instructor will lead classes and oversee community volunteers and adult learners. Attention to detail, comfort with online databases, and the ability to work in a cross-cultural environment are also important qualifications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Additionally, completion of a certificate program in Adult Education, TEFL, TESL, or TESOL is preferred, as it provides specialized training in teaching English to speakers of other languages. This educational foundation is critical for effectively delivering integrated ESOL instruction and meeting the diverse needs of adult learners in a workplace setting.

Experience:
The position requires relevant professional experience in education and/or human services, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience working with immigrant or refugee populations. This experience is vital for understanding the unique challenges faced by non-native English speakers and for effectively supporting their language learning and integration into the workforce.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, bilingual abilities in a language spoken by an IRC client group are desired, as this can enhance communication and support for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Additional Notes:
This is a part-time, non-exempt position requiring 18.75 hours of work per week. The instructor will be expected to deliver classes both on-site and in a hybrid format, necessitating flexibility in scheduling. The compensation for this role ranges from $20.20 to $22.50 per hour, depending on various factors such as labor market conditions, job type, and individual candidate experience. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. Benefits for U.S.-based employees include sick days, paid time off, medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program.