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.

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. This is a hybrid position, and the employee may choose to work in their preferred combination of in person at the office in a hoteling capacity, or remotely. 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

Develop test items and ancillary materials for paper-based, large-scale English language proficiency assessments for kindergarten English learners.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Write, review, and revise test item content and ancillary test documents for accuracy, accessibility, and appropriateness using a deep understanding of developmentally appropriate educational practices for kindergarteners and the language development of young multilingual learners
• Write and refine graphics descriptions to support student comprehension of test items
• Evaluate graphical content and track changes to graphics for content accuracy, accessibility, and appropriateness
• Revise test materials based on item feedback from project managers, clients, and other subject matter experts at multiple stages of development
• Assemble items and ancillary materials for cognitive labs and pilot testing according to print and test specifications
• Coordinate item development tasks of external consultants, e.g., copyeditors, to ensure timely delivery of test items
• Collaborate with manager to plan for and oversee the implementation of cognitive labs and pilot testing 
• Pilot test new items and materials with students and teachers to evaluate effectiveness
• Analyze and interpret quantitative and qualitative test data to inform revisions to items
• Communicate and collaborate within and across teams throughout the test development process
• Adhere to quality control procedures to produce draft and camera-ready copy
• Prepare and maintain files and records (summary reports, electronic notes, spreadsheets, etc.)
• Maintain test item database
• Prepare training samples, annotations, and scoring notes for Kindergarten ACCESS for ELLs
• Speaking and Writing rater training and scoring materials
• Other responsibilities as assigned

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required

• Experience with kindergarten education or young multilingual learner education
• 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 developing English language proficiency tests for PreK-12 students

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the language development of kindergarten multilingual learners
• Knowledge of how oracy, literacy, and numeracy develop in kindergarten
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate educational practices for kindergarteners
• 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
• Ability to be a quick-learner and initiative-taker with flexibility and a can-do mindset
• 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: $52,485 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.