Description

JOB CLASS; PAY GRADE: Coordinator 2 / Specialist 3

WAGE: Starts at $56,687 per year.

FTE; FT/PT; STATUS: 1.0 FTE; Hourly/ On-Call without Benefits; Casual

(Position is limited duration through June 30, 2024)

FLSA; EEO; WC: Exempt; Professionals; 8864

PROGRAM(S): Community Works Project (CWP)

OPENING DATE: March 21, 2024

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled.

REQUIREMENTS: Valid driver's license and have full use of automobile during work hours.

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

The Community Works Project (CWP) is a 3-agency collaborative project dedicated to offering job preparation and placement services to Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) participants who are participating in Job Opportunities Basic Skills (JOBS) program. CWP serves Department of Human Services (DHS) locations. 

This position is expected to serve these DHS locations, during the DHS hours of business. As the Curriculum Developer Specialist, you will work collaboratively with our dedicated staff to strengthen the effectiveness of our curriculum and materials. You will analyze the existing workshops, resources, and tools used by the ESL Instructor, Life Skills Navigators, Child Services Navigator and LSCC navigator, gathering feedback from both staff and members. Based on your analysis, you will develop and recommend improvements to enhance the learning experience and maximize program impact.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Curriculum Review and Analysis:

• Review and apply curriculum quality frameworks to evaluate and recommend improvements for certification purposes.
• Conduct a comprehensive review of existing CWP curriculum materials, workshops, and resources used by various staff members.
• Gather feedback from staff and members to identify areas for improvement.
• Analyze learner needs and program goals to ensure alignment with curriculum content.

Curriculum Development and Improvement:

• Develop and recommend revisions to existing curriculum materials, ensuring clarity, cultural sensitivity, and effectiveness.
• Create new learning modules, workshops, or resources as needed, aligned with program goals and member needs.
• Utilize adult learning best practices and incorporate diverse learning styles in curriculum development.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with the ESL Instructor, Life Skills Navigators, Child Services Navigator, and other CWP staff to understand their needs and curriculum challenges and needs.
• Present recommendations and updates to the program leadership.
• Provide clear and concise communication of curriculum changes to relevant stakeholders.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, committees, and volunteer activities to support CWP and agency’s goals.

Requirements

JOB SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in education, instructional design, curriculum development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience developing ESL curriculum and materials for adult learners in a social service setting.
• Certification in curriculum development or instructional design from a recognized institution.
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
• Ability to demonstrate a combination of the following characteristics: patience, open-mindedness; high level of responsibility; non-judgment; willingness to grow, change and learn; courage; motivation; empathy; compassion; flexibility; persistence; creativity.
• Listening and empathy skills (i.e. compassionate communication) and assisting with problem solving and resolving conflict. 
• Self-starter, independent worker with the ability to work remotely with minimal supervision. 
• Ability to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.
• Ability to communicate with a variety of personality types and levels of the organization as well as with people outside of the organization.
• Be punctual, maintain good attendance, and be able to work flexible hours as needed.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in using a curriculum quality framework to evaluate and certify curriculum for external entities.
• Strong understanding of adult learning principles and best practices.
• Previous experience/Familiarity with ESL instruction, life skills development, and/child services navigation (preferred).

Skills:

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; and use of educational technology and software for curriculum development.
• Commitment to equity and inclusion.

KNOWLEDGE:

Education: Bachelor's Degree (4)

Experience: 5-6 years of experience is required (5)

Licensure, Certification:  N/A

Additional Language Required: Proficiency in a second language other than English, preferred.

Computers: Require use of a computer and experience working with Microsoft Products including but not limited to Microsoft 365, Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint. In addition, this position specifically requires Intermediate to Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite.

 In addition, this position specifically requires a reliable internet connection with the ability to handle video calls and databases, and reliable cell phone coverage.

SKILLS:

Communication:

Regular communication inside the organization to exchange ideas and gather information (4)

Creativity:

Minimal need for the redesign of single focus process or procedure is needed (2)

EFFORT:

Mental:

There is regular variation in tasks and the job holder must decide which tasks to complete as well as the order in which tasks are completed (3)

Physical:

Positions at this level require minimal physical effort such as light lifting, carrying or movement, etc. Physical capability involves use of office or equipment where some agility and hand eye coordination are needed (2)

RESPONSIBILITY:

Impact and Influence:

Minimal need or ability to analyze problem or concepts or make decisions on the information. Dollar amounts influenced would be considered small. Responsibility for the prudent use of assets does not extend beyond own work responsibilities. (2)

Work Independence:

Positions at this level are expected to work under minimal supervision. Positions regularly contribute ideas and decisions or actions which commit the organization, or which are outside established policy/procedure are expected to be referred to others (4)

Planning:

Positions at this level must be able to foresee issues associated with own work and identify future needs for supplies, equipment, resources which would stall operations or activities. (2)

Supervision:

Positions at this level are not responsible for any supervisory functions or responsibilities but may occasionally be asked to orient and/or train new employees or volunteers. (1)

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Environment:

This level has a work environment that is usually well protected, free from hazards or obstacles. There is little element of personal risk or hazard Job conditions are usually comfortable, with only occasional issues, temperature change (2)

Schedule:

The work schedule is mostly stable and does not fluctuate without prior notice. (2)

HOW TO APPLY:

1. Complete the IRCO application in our Careers Portal: 

2. Upload your resume and cover letter addressing your qualifications for this position. 

3. Email jobs@irco.org with questions about this position. 

Please note that physical applications are accessible from IRCO’s main office, 10301 NE Glisan, Portland, OR 97220. Due to the high volume of applications received, we will not be able to contact applicants or return calls regarding applications. Applications without both a cover letter and email will be dismissed as incomplete.

ABOUT IRCO: 

IRCO's mission is to welcome, serve, and empower refugees, immigrants and people across cultures and generations to reach their full potential. Our vision is a future where all refugees and immigrants belong, our staff are nurtured, and all communities thrive.

Founded in 1976 by refugees for refugees, IRCO has over 40 years of experience working with refugee and immigrant communities in the Portland metropolitan area, and over five years in Eastern Oregon. IRCO is the largest provider of employment services and job training for newly arrived refugees in Oregon; and we support families at every stage of their lives from the time they arrive in Oregon. Find out more at www.irco.org.