Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) Instructor

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The organization is dedicated to restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to help people survive, reclaim control of their futures, and strengthen their communities, the IRC employs a diverse workforce that delivers lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions of people worldwide. The IRC is committed to creating a better future for those in need and encourages passionate change-makers to join their efforts.

Job Overview:
The Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) Instructor is a vital role within the IRC’s Center for Financial Opportunity (CFO), which aims to empower newly arrived refugees and low-income individuals to achieve self-sufficiency. This position involves teaching English language skills that are essential for employability, including specialized tracks that cover basic digital literacy, driving knowledge for permit tests, and child care licensing. The VESL Instructor is responsible for delivering engaging instruction, developing and refining curriculum, and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure that clients meet their personal and professional goals. The role requires a commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment that accommodates diverse proficiency levels and learning styles, whether in-person or remotely.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The VESL Instructor will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: teaching Vocational English as a Second Language classes with a focus on specialized tracks; assessing student progress and tracking attendance; developing lesson plans and instructional materials in collaboration with the VESL Coordinator; adhering to policies and procedures for data collection required by grant funders; coordinating with other staff members through regular communication and participation in meetings; staying updated on best practices for adult ESL instruction; and performing other related duties as assigned. The instructor will also be expected to maintain accurate records of student enrollment and participation, and to engage in ongoing professional development activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an undergraduate degree in a related field, with a Master’s degree preferred. Experience teaching ESL is required, with a minimum of 2 years of ESL teaching experience preferred. Online instruction experience is also preferred. Candidates should have a valid CA driver’s license and access to a car. ESL certification is strongly preferred, along with experience working with immigrant populations and adults. Familiarity with workforce and job training programs is advantageous. The ideal candidate will demonstrate cultural competency, creativity in teaching, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The position requires an undergraduate degree in a relevant field, with a Master’s degree being highly desirable. Candidates should have formal training in teaching English as a Second Language, and ESL certification is strongly preferred to ensure that the instructor is equipped with the necessary pedagogical skills and knowledge to effectively teach adult learners.

Experience:
The VESL Instructor should have at least 2 years of experience teaching ESL, with a preference for candidates who have experience in online instruction and working with diverse adult populations. Experience in workforce development and job training programs is also beneficial, as it aligns with the goals of the Center for Financial Opportunity.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with strong written and oral communication skills required. While not mandatory, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly languages spoken by the refugee populations served by the IRC.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in a standard professional office environment, with a hybrid work model that includes remote work within San Diego County. The instructor will be required to work at both City Heights and El Cajon offices and may need to work occasional evenings or weekends. The office hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 5 pm. The compensation for this position ranges from $24.00 to $26.78 per hour, depending on various factors such as labor market conditions, job type, and individual candidate experience. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program.