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.

**Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this position.**

There are currently two (2) openings for this position at CAL. 

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.

SUMMARY

The Language Testing Specialist develops test items for large-scale English language assessments for K–12 English language learners (ELLs).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Evaluate, review, and write test materials and documents, including providing feedback to team members on test item development
• Review and revise items for accuracy and appropriateness
• Write and refine graphics descriptions to support student comprehension of test items
• Evaluate and track changes to graphics for content accuracy and grade-level appropriateness
• Assist with and prepare materials for internal and external reviews of test materials
• Coordinate item development tasks of external consultants (theme generators, item writers, standards experts, etc.) to ensure timely delivery of test items
• Incorporate item feedback from project managers, clients, and other subject matter experts (standards experts, bias/sensitivity & content reviewers, etc.) at multiple stages of development
• Try out new items with students to evaluate item effectiveness; use teacher and student feedback to make revisions
• Analyze and interpret field test data to inform revisions to items or new item development
• Communicate and collaborate within and across teams throughout the test development process
• Adhere to quality control procedures for print and computer-delivered items
• Prepare and maintain files and records (summary reports, electronic notes, spreadsheets, etc.)
• Write and revise test item specifications
• Maintain test item database
• Prepare training samples, annotations, and scoring notes for ACCESS for ELLs Speaking and Writing rater training and scoring materials

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, in a relevant field, with at least two years of relevant experience; or
• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university, in a relevant field.

Preferred

• Experience working with K-12 English Language Learners (ELLs).
• Experience teaching English as a Second Language (ESL).
• Experience developing English as a Second Language (ESL)/English as a Foreign Language (EFL) tests for K-12 students.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills
• Excellent organization, planning, and time management skills
• Attention to detail with strong oral and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines and work well within a team
• Knowledge of a language other than English preferred
• Knowledge of Adobe CS6 InDesign and Microsoft Office software preferred

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires occasional travel (1-2 times per year).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position sitting or standing 50% of the time
• Constantly operates a computer and other office equipment

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.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

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 effectively communicate. The employee may be required to sit or stand in a stationary position 50% of the time. This position constantly operates a computer and other office productivity equipment. The employee must be able to observe details at close range, including color on a computer screen. CAL adheres to ADA compliance and guidelines as a common practice.

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.