Company Description
The Center for Applied Linguistics is a nonprofit organization promoting access, equity and mutual understanding for linguistically and culturally diverse people around the world.
The mission of the Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL) is to promote language learning and cultural understanding by serving as a trusted source for research, resources, and policy analysis. Through its work, CAL seeks solutions to issues involving language and culture as they relate to access and equity in education and society around the globe.
Job Description
Contract duration: Through June 30, 2024. Continued employment past June 2024 is contingent on securing additional funding from other sources.
**Applicants must submit a Résumé and Cover Letter to be considered for this position.**
The Center for Applied Linguistics is located in Washington DC. While our physical location is currently closed, we are transitioning to a hybrid workplace where staff may work in person at the office or may work from home. Staff may work from locations outside of Washington DC, Maryland, or Virginia if approved for telework. However, this position is not open to candidates residing in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, California, or the U.S. Territories.
POSITION SUMMARY
Lead the development and delivery of paper-based, large-scale English language proficiency assessments for kindergarten English learners; supervise one test development staff member.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Supervise and manage one kindergarten language testing specialist
Review and approve item specifications, test maps, and blueprints
Review and approve test items during all phases of the item development process using a deep understanding of developmentally appropriate educational practices for kindergarteners and the language development of young multilingual learners
Monitor the relationship between the tests and the standards upon which they are based
Ensure all quality control procedures are followed in test development processes
Develop and ensure adherence to timelines for test development
Coordinate stakeholder reviews, cognitive labs, and pilot testing of test materials in development
Refine, develop, and implement new procedures as needed
Solicit, evaluate, and oversee implementation of feedback from funder, external reviewers, and stakeholders
Coordinate work with CAL’s Production Team to produce draft and camera-ready copy of test and ancillary materials
Communicate with internal functional teams and external project partners about progress on tasks
Document decisions and processes
Write reports, memos, and other documentation as needed
Other responsibilities as assigned
Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Required
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university, in a relevant field, and 4 or more years of relevant experience, including supervisory experience
Experience with kindergarten education or young multilingual learner education
Preferred
Experience coordinating across functional teams and managing the development of language proficiency test items (preferably for large-scale, standardized assessments.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES
Knowledge of developmentally appropriate educational practices for kindergarteners and the language development of young multilingual learners
Ability to coordinate staff across multiple tasks to meet deadlines and quality control expectations
Ability to understand highly complex test designs with multiple interconnected parts
Highly motivated, flexible, and able to show leadership to attain team goals
Ability to work independently as well as cooperatively in a fast-paced team environment
Strong attention to detail while maintaining sight of the big picture
Ability to bring an analytical as well as a creative approach to problem solving
Strong organization, planning, and time management skills
Strong oral and interpersonal communication
Experience using style manuals
Proficiency using Microsoft Office software
Proficiency using Adobe CS6 InDesign preferred
This job description summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires occasional U.S. domestic travel (1-2 times per year).
COMPENSATION
Minimum Salary: $64,745 Annually
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
CAL adheres to ADA compliance and guidelines as a common practice. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee:
Is regularly required to communicate effectively.
Must be able to remain in a stationary position sitting or standing 50% of the time.
Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity equipment.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT STATEMENT
The Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL) provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, CAL complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
CAL expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of CAL employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.
Department of Psychology & Neuroscience