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 cities across the United States, with a mission to respond to the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The organization aims to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a workforce dedicated to delivering lasting impact, the IRC helps millions of people regain control of their lives and strengthen their communities, embodying a force for humanity.

Job Overview:
The position of Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) Instructor is a critical role within the Economic Empowerment program in Louisville, which focuses on assisting refugees and other humanitarian immigrants in achieving economic independence. The instructor is responsible for delivering industry-focused English instruction that equips clients with essential workplace language skills necessary for accessing, retaining, and advancing in employment. The role requires planning and teaching full-time VESL classes tailored to the needs of refugee adults, developing lesson plans that impart real-life skills, and collaborating with the Economic Empowerment Manager to track client participation in the program. The instructor will also implement basic computer skills training and assess clients' English progress through initial exams and regular evaluations. This position is integral to helping clients fully participate in their new communities and achieve their economic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the VESL Instructor include planning and teaching full-time VESL classes focused on vocational English acquisition for refugee adults. The instructor will develop lesson plans that enable clients to gain practical skills and participate actively in their communities. Responsibilities also include collaborating with the Economic Empowerment Manager to enroll and track clients' participation in the VESL program, maintaining case file documentation for clients' activities and outcomes, and implementing basic computer skills training using the IRC computer lab. The instructor will tailor lesson plans to accommodate varying language levels and cultural backgrounds, administer initial English exams and regular assessments, monitor classroom participation, and maintain attendance records. Additionally, the instructor will evaluate the success of training and programming, participate in IRC Communities of Practice, staff meetings, and other networking opportunities, and perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the VESL Instructor position are required to have an ESL certification, such as TESOL, TEFL, or CELTA. An undergraduate degree in Adult Education or a related field is preferred. The position requires experience in teaching ESL/EFL, adult education, or vocational English, with a strong preference for candidates who have worked with refugee, immigrant, or culturally diverse adult learners. Experience in developing curriculum or instructional materials is considered a plus. Candidates must demonstrate strong intercultural communication skills, the ability to maintain confidentiality, and effective organizational and classroom management skills. The ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team is essential, along with proficiency in spoken and written English and a commitment to the IRC's core values of Integrity, Service, and Accountability.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the VESL Instructor position includes an undergraduate degree in Adult Education or a related field, which is preferred. Additionally, candidates must possess an ESL certification such as TESOL, TEFL, or CELTA, which is mandatory for this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have experience teaching ESL/EFL, adult education, or vocational English. Experience working with refugee, immigrant, or culturally diverse adult learners is strongly preferred. Candidates with experience in developing curriculum or instructional materials will have an advantage in the selection process.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. While not explicitly stated, knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial in working with a diverse clientele, particularly those from refugee backgrounds.

Additional Notes:
The compensation for the VESL Instructor position ranges from $21.00 to $23.00 per hour, with the posted pay ranges applicable to US-based candidates. These ranges are determined by various factors, including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. Exact offers will be calibrated based on work location, individual candidate experience, and skills relative to the defined job requirements. The IRC emphasizes adherence to professional standards and core values, including Integrity, Service, Equality, and Accountability. The organization is committed to creating a safe environment for its employees and clients, implementing policies on safeguarding and reporting wrongdoing. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical and dental insurance, retirement savings plans, and an Employee Assistance Program.