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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for English Instructor

💰 $45,000 - $75,000 Annually

EducationTeachingTrainingLanguage Instruction

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a passionate and dedicated English Instructor to join our dynamic academic team. The ideal candidate is an inspiring educator with a talent for making language learning accessible, engaging, and effective for a diverse student population. In this role, you will be more than just a teacher; you will be a mentor, a cultural guide, and a key contributor to our students' academic and personal success. You will have the opportunity to design innovative curricula, leverage cutting-edge educational technology, and foster an inclusive classroom environment where every student feels empowered to achieve their language goals. If you are committed to excellence in education and thrive on helping others succeed, we want to hear from you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • ESL/EFL Tutor or Teaching Assistant
  • Recent Graduate (MA in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, or English)
  • K-12 Teacher transitioning to adult or higher education

Advancement To:

  • Senior or Lead Instructor
  • Academic Coordinator or Director of Studies
  • Curriculum Developer or Instructional Designer

Lateral Moves:

  • Corporate Language Trainer
  • Instructional Technologist or EdTech Consultant
  • Admissions Counselor or International Student Advisor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Design and deliver dynamic, student-centered English language lessons for diverse, multilingual learners, incorporating a variety of instructional techniques to accommodate different learning styles and proficiency levels.
  • Develop and implement comprehensive, level-appropriate lesson plans that align with the institution's curriculum framework and learning objectives.
  • Create a vibrant, interactive, and inclusive classroom environment that encourages student participation, fosters confidence, and promotes cross-cultural understanding.
  • Assess student learning and proficiency through a variety of formal and informal methods, including quizzes, examinations, project-based assignments, and presentations.
  • Provide timely, constructive, and individualized feedback to students on their language skills, academic progress, and overall performance.
  • Maintain accurate and organized records of student attendance, grades, and academic progress using the designated Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Integrate modern educational technology, digital media, and online resources into the curriculum to enhance the learning experience and develop students' digital literacy.
  • Advise and mentor students on academic pathways, language learning strategies, and cultural adjustment, providing support and guidance to ensure their success.
  • Participate actively in curriculum review, materials development, and program improvement initiatives to ensure our offerings remain current and effective.
  • Administer and score student placement tests to ensure accurate assignment to appropriate course levels.
  • Collaborate with faculty and academic staff on departmental projects, assessment norming sessions, and student-centered events.
  • Hold regular office hours to provide one-on-one academic support and extra help to students.
  • Manage classroom dynamics and behavior effectively, ensuring a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment for all.
  • Stay current with emerging trends, methodologies, and best practices in the field of second language acquisition and teaching through ongoing professional development.
  • Contribute to student retention and success by identifying at-risk students and collaborating with support services to implement intervention strategies.
  • Prepare students for standardized language proficiency exams such as TOEFL or IELTS, where applicable.
  • Assist in the planning and execution of co-curricular activities, workshops, and conversation clubs that provide students with opportunities for authentic language practice.
  • Uphold all institutional policies and procedures, demonstrating professionalism in all interactions with students, colleagues, and the wider community.
  • Participate in faculty meetings, professional development workshops, and institutional committees as required.
  • Develop supplementary instructional materials, such as handouts, study guides, and multimedia aids, to support core lesson content.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist with new student orientation, placement testing, and proficiency assessment processes as needed.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of the curriculum and instructional materials by providing feedback and suggestions.
  • Collaborate with academic advisors and student support services to ensure a holistic approach to student success and retention.
  • Participate in regular faculty meetings, professional development workshops, and institutional events to foster a collaborative academic community.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Curriculum and Syllabus Design
  • TESOL/TEFL/CELTA Methodologies
  • Classroom Management Techniques
  • Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Canvas, Moodle, or Blackboard
  • Second Language Acquisition (SLA) Theory and Application
  • Language Proficiency Assessment and Evaluation (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, CEFR)
  • Instructional Technology Integration (e.g., SmartBoards, educational apps, online collaboration tools)
  • Differentiated Instruction Strategies
  • Advanced Knowledge of English Grammar, Syntax, and Phonology
  • Lesson Planning and Material Development

Soft Skills

  • Cross-Cultural Communication and Sensitivity
  • Patience and Empathy
  • Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
  • Adaptability and Flexibility
  • Active Listening and Questioning
  • Student Mentoring and Advising
  • Strong Interpersonal and Relationship-Building Skills
  • Exceptional Organizational and Time-Management Skills
  • Creative Problem-Solving
  • Enthusiasm and a Motivational Presence

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in English, Linguistics, Education, or a closely related field, combined with a TESOL/TEFL/CELTA certificate.

Preferred Education:

  • Master's degree in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, or a closely related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
  • Applied Linguistics
  • Education (with a focus on language or literacy)
  • English Language and Literature

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5 years of direct classroom teaching experience, preferably instructing adult or university-level English Language Learners.

Preferred:

  • Experience teaching in a higher education or intensive English program (IEP) setting.
  • Prior experience living or teaching abroad is highly valued.
  • Demonstrated success in teaching multiple skill areas (e.g., Reading, Writing, Listening/Speaking, Grammar) across various proficiency levels.
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