ESL Instructor for Adults Learning English, Washington, D.C.
Position Description
About PADF
The Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) believes in creating a hemisphere of opportunity, for all. We work across Latin America and the Caribbean to make our region stronger— more healthy, peaceful, just, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable for current and future generations. For over 60 years, we have served the most vulnerable communities, investing resources throughout the hemisphere. We partner with and enable civil society, governments, and the private sector for the greater good of the region.
Position Overview
The ESL Instructor for Adults Learning English will teach immigrant adults with diverse educational backgrounds, learning styles, and language abilities. The instructor will be responsible for establishing an English program, which includes coordinating, planning, preparing, delivering, and evaluating classroom instruction, as well as offering individual tutoring sessions. Key duties include selecting or developing placement tests, instructional materials, lesson plans, assignments, and assessments for learners at various stages of English language proficiency. Adult learners will be native or advanced Spanish speakers participating in a professional development program in Washington, DC.
The instructor will motivate and support adult learners to become proficient in English by the end of the 12-month program, enabling them to meaningfully engage in professional environments in the United States and beyond.
This position reports to the Project Manager and is based in our Headquarters Office in D.C. Scheduling is flexible and PADF will work with the selected candidate to develop a consistent schedule that works for the program and the instructor.
This is a fixed-term assignment for 12 months with an estimated 32-hour workweek.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Launch English language program for a cohort of 20 adult learners with responsibilities including but not limited to conducting placement testing and a needs analysis, coordinating with PADF staff on course schedule and offerings, and selection of curricular materials and assessments. Prepare and deliver English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom instruction and coaching for adult learners with different English-language abilities, in addition to one-on-one tutoring sessions tailored to learner goals, strengths, and areas for improvement. Select or develop placement test and implementation procedures. Provide students with a syllabus that includes course objectives and learning outcomes, teaching methodology, attendance policies, texts and readings, assignments and deliverables, timelines, and evaluation criteria. Prepare and administer pre/post-tests to ensure learning. Maintain records of attendance, assessments, and grades, and submit class rosters and grade sheets by the deadlines established by PADF. Provide a classroom environment conducive to learning, establishing and maintaining classroom control. Coach students according to their individual development needs. Play an active role in helping students persist toward their goals by developing engaging lesson plans and closely monitoring students’ attendance and performance, addressing issues appropriately. Use a variety of creative activities and instructional methods to motivate students. Attend meetings and maintain communication with PADF staff. Ability and flexibility to teach any level as needed. Work a 32-hour workweek, which may include evenings.Competencies
Communication Skills – Strong interpersonal and nonverbal communication skills, with a proven capacity to connect with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and varying levels of English proficiency. Respectfully listens to others and able to articulate complex concepts in a clear and accessible manner. Organizational and Classroom Management Skills – Ability to establish clear classroom expectations, routines, and procedures that foster a positive and productive learning environment. Creativity – Ability to develop engaging lesson plans that capture students’ attention and motivate them to learn.Personal Characteristics
Diplomacy – Ability to build and maintain excellent interpersonal relationships, with knowledge of and sensitivity to differences among cultures. Flexibility – Ability to adapt teaching methods and approach for students with different learning styles and needs. Ethical – Demonstrates a high degree of integrity and professionalism, with a strong commitment to confidentiality. Effective – Excellent time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines. Motivated – Passionate and dedicated to teaching and enthusiastic about inspiring others to meet their goals.Required Qualifications
At least two (2) years of experience teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to adult learners, including a demonstrated ability to apply a structured approach to teaching, training, coaching, and/or motiving others to achieve their goals. CELTA, TEFL, TESL, or other formal ESL teaching certification. Native or near-native proficiency in both English and Spanish. Knowledge about pedagogy and teaching strategies to support Adult English Language Learners. Flexibility and ability to make adaptations to meet the academic needs of students with different learning skills and challenges. Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, demonstrating respect and cultural sensitivity. Strong understanding of grammar, with excellent written and verbal communication skills. High degree of integrity, professionalism, and strong commitment to confidentiality. Proficient in standard computer applications such as Microsoft Office and experience using teaching platforms such as interactive boards, learning management systems, Google Drive, and other web-based applications. Ability to teach in-person in Washington, DC.Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in adult education, teaching, linguistics, TESOL, language studies, or related field.Salary Range: $60,000 - $68,000.
A candidate’s salary is determined by multiple factors including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, job-related knowledge, skills, abilities, and internal organizational equity.
More About PADF
PADF is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established by the Organization of American States (OAS) in 1962. www.padf.org
PADF’s core values. “H-E-A-R-T” = Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork.
Diversity. PADF is strong because we are diverse. We actively seek a diverse applicant pool and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. PADF does not discriminate based on ability, age, gender identity and expression, national origin, race and ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record. We welcome all kinds of diversity. Our employees include people who are parents and nonparents, the self-taught and university educated, and from a wide span of cultures, languages, socio-economic backgrounds, and perspectives on the world.
PADF is committed to safeguarding employees and those we serve, addressing inappropriate behavior, discrimination, and harassment. We take an intersectional approach, promote gender equality, and follow our Global Code of Conduct emphasizing our H.E.A.R.T. values. The code covers various aspects, including anti-trafficking, PSEAH (Protection against Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment), whistleblowing, and online safety.
PADF is an Equal Opportunity Employer