Summary:

Curriculum Developer I for The School of Language Studies (SLS) at the U.S. Department of State’s (DOS) Foreign Service Institute (FSI) provides language training and testing to DOS employees and other government agencies in over 70 foreign languages. Enrollments in the School surpass 2000 students annually including up to 1000 distance learning enrollments.

General Requirements, but are not limited to:

• Collaborate with the COR, ACOR, or GTM on and perform assigned tasks or execute single-handedly, the development of language training materials or SLS-relevant reference materials, including but not limited to text, audio, video, and technology-based media. All materials become the property of the United States Government, and the Contractor may not copy or reproduce them in any way for use outside of an FSI class, share them by any means outside of FSI, or publish them in any way without the express permission of the Government.

• Adhere to all copyright guidelines and restrictions, follow FSI and SLS procedures regarding copyright, and track compliance for assigned development project(s).

• Collaborate with the COR, ACOR, or GTM and others to review and edit foreign language and/or English in instructional materials.

• Collaborate with the COR, ACOR, or GTM to perform assigned tasks or execute single-handedly the development of SLS-relevant research and development projects, including but not limited to instructional research and development.

• Collaborate with the COR, ACOR, or GTM in the development and implementation of new specialized language training programs for domestic and overseas use. Assist with developing models that reflect "best practices" experience in Washington and around the world and encourage the wider use of innovative training models, e.g., distance learning, multimedia learning systems, guided self-study, coaching, exploiting a local language environment, and tutoring.

• Collaborate with the COR, ACOR, to incorporate innovative materials and practices to address various learning styles and needs, build skills in learning strategies, and promote continual learning after language training.

• Assist the COR, ACOR, or GTM and others with the development and delivery of SLS-relevant in-service staff development, orientation activities, and training projects designed to build skills in effective materials development and classroom implementation.

• Collaborate with the COR, ACOR, or GTM and the Division of Curriculum, Student and Staff Development to assist with drafting all required documents in the curriculum development project approval process as well as provide status updates on approved projects on request.

Required Qualifications:

• Be eligible to work in the United States and must have a minimum of one year remaining in U.S. employment eligibility.

• Follow all policies of the Language Section, the Administrative Unit, SLS, FSI, and DOS.

• Follow the guidance provided in the FSI Language and Culture Instructor Guide.

• Follow all administrative processes and procedures as detailed in the SLS Guide to FSI Administrative Procedures.

• Work in a harmonious and professional manner with colleagues who represent cultures from around the world.

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience developing materials or courses for adult learners of foreign languages taught at FSI preferred.

• Experience teaching adult learners of foreign languages preferred.

• BA/BS, MA/MS, or Ph.D. or foreign equivalent degree in a relevant language education field preferred.

• Experience incorporating a variety of educational technology in instructional materials preferred.

• Experience designing materials for proficiency-based instruction preferred.

• Experience designing task-based language learning materials valued.

• Experience designing vocabulary-based language learning materials valued.

• Experience designing courses utilizing blended learning models valued.

• Experience integrating social media applications for educational purposes valued.

• Experience designing and delivering training for language educators valued.

• Experience designing and delivering training targeted to needs of diplomatic community valued.

Clearance: National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI), background check

Location: The School of Language Studies (SLS) at the U.S. Department of State’s (DOS) Foreign Service Institute (FSI), Arlington, Virginia 

Travel: Some Travel will be required