Part-time French Language Teacher

Job Posting Organization:
The Language and Communications Training Unit (LCTU) is part of the Capacity Development and Operational Training Services (CDOTS) within the Office of Support Operations (OSO) of the Department of Operational Support (DOS) at the United Nations. The LCTU is dedicated to promoting linguistic balance and multilingualism within the UN Secretariat, as mandated by various General Assembly resolutions. The organization aims to enhance the language abilities of UN staff members through structured language and communication skills courses. The LCTU operates at UN Headquarters in New York and extends its services to the Global Secretariat, ensuring that staff members across different countries can access language training. The unit is staffed by professionals who specialize in the delivery, development, and assessment of language programs, aligning their offerings with organizational goals and UN policies. The LCTU is committed to fostering an inclusive and effective learning environment for its diverse workforce, which includes individuals from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Job Overview:
The position of Part-time French Language Teacher involves preparing and facilitating lessons for assigned courses, correcting assignments and homework promptly, and monitoring students' progress. Teachers are expected to provide constructive feedback to both groups and individuals, assess and grade evaluation tasks, tests, and exams as scheduled. At the end of each language learning term, teachers must submit final evaluations of students and report on attendance. The role requires teachers to respond to emails within 48 hours and participate in the development of language projects when assigned. The contract duration is limited to 9 months within any 12-month period, and the work schedule is aligned with the language learning calendar. Teachers may work in-person, online, or in a hybrid format, depending on the course requirements and student needs. The LCTU seeks to hire part-time teachers to meet the increasing demand for language learning, ensuring that staff members receive high-quality instruction in French and other languages.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Part-time French Language Teacher include preparing and teaching French language courses at various levels, assessing student performance, and providing timely feedback. Teachers are responsible for utilizing Learning Management Systems (such as Moodle) and e-learning tools for course preparation and delivery. They must maintain attendance and grading records within the Learning Management System and develop new courses and learning materials that incorporate innovative instructional technology. Additionally, teachers are tasked with designing language assessments and proficiency exams according to established guidelines. They are expected to promote multilingualism and enhance communication skills among UN staff, contributing to the overall mission of the LCTU.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in language area studies, language teaching, applied linguistics, communication, education/pedagogy, or a related field. Degrees that emphasize the theory and practice of teaching a second or foreign language to adult learners are particularly desirable. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Post-degree training in second or foreign language teaching is highly desirable, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as language studies, linguistics, communication, or education. Candidates with a focus on teaching methodologies for adult learners will be preferred. A first-level university degree, along with additional qualifying experience, may also be considered acceptable. Post-degree training specifically in second or foreign language teaching is an added advantage, indicating a commitment to professional development in this area.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of experience teaching French as a foreign or second language to adults in a multicultural setting is required. This experience should include at least three years of recent involvement in curriculum development, language examination design, and/or language teacher training. Familiarity with e-learning tools, learning management systems, and online collaboration platforms is desirable, as is experience in a multicultural environment at an international level, which would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse student body.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. Candidates must demonstrate expert-level competence in French, both oral and written, in accordance with the UN Language Framework. Advanced knowledge of English is also required. Knowledge of additional UN official languages is considered an advantage, as it aligns with the UN's commitment to multilingualism and effective communication across its operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is part-time, with a contract duration limited to 9 months within any 12-month period. The contract is linked to the language learning calendar and the specific length of courses and pedagogical activities assigned. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to provide financial information or bank account details.