EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT CENTER (EDC)

EDC is one of the world’s leading nonprofit research and development firms. EDC designs, implements, and evaluates programs to improve education, health, and economic opportunity worldwide. Collaborating with both public and private partners, we strive for a world where all people are empowered to live healthy, productive lives.

EDC is committed to diversity in the workplace.

USAID/NIGERIA'S NORTHERN EDUCATION INITIATIVE PLUS PROJECT

The USAID/Nigeria's Northern Education Initiative Plus project (NEI+), being implemented by Creative Associates and EDC, works to improve the quality of and access to education in Nigeria's Northern states.

The English Reading and Standards Specialist is expected to: (1) communicate clearly, accurately, efficiently, and courteously; (2) develop and maintain positive relationships with clients, consultants, collaborators, co-workers, and funders; and (3) work collaboratively with colleagues to produce high quality products in a timely manner, demonstrating leadership and initiative. The position requires adherence to EDC's policies and procedures. 

This position is based in Abuja, Nigeria, and will report to the Reading Specialist.

The English Reading and Standards Specialist will:

•  Coordinate the development of English early literacy standards with government stakeholders and international STTA, ensuring alignment with Hausa standards and with overall literacy expectations for Nigeria;
• Provide leadership for the development and/or adaptation of English-language curricula and instructional materials, in coordination with the ICT and materials development specialist;
• Develop, implement, and support teacher, school leader, and local government authority staff training in English early literacy methods and materials, in coordination with the teacher training specialist;
• Coordinate with staff in 3 state offices to ensure the fidelity and quality of English program implementation at the school level;
• Coordinate with the M&E team to develop knowledge-sharing efforts related to English early literacy, including communication briefs and presentations on achievements and lessons learned;
• Coordinate with ED's project director and home office technical team to share lessons learned problem-solve, and ensure that work in the field meets the highest standards of quality and is consistent with the state of the art in early grade literacy. 

The English Reading and Standards Specialist:

• Effectively interacts with diverse staff, colleagues, and clients;
• Facilitates project teamwork and feedback exchanges;
• Collaborates on troubleshooting complex problems, proposing initiatives and recommending or negotiating solutions;
• Adapts readily and demonstrates flexibility and willingness to learn;
• Seeks and incorporates feedback;
• Coordinates quality assurance;
• Supports innovation that benefits project activities.

This position requires educational achievement; excellent writing skills; demonstrable initiative, creativity, and flexibility; ability to effectively work independently as well as in groups; and strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Specific requirements:

• Master’s degree and 5+ years of related experience in standards development, teacher training and materials development in early grade reading and writing in English;
• Experience working with complex projects and collaborating with professional peers on joint products;
• Knowledge of and experience with primary school context
• Knowledge of and experience with English language curriculum
• Teacher training and teacher coaching experience
• Teaching/learning materials development experience
• Team player and willingness to learn
• Experience working with Nigerian government counterparts (at national, state, and LGEA levels) to design, implement, support, and monitor education programming
• Travel to project states required
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
• Proficiency in Hausa is a plus
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Prior experience with USAID-funded projects preferred

Only candidates who are invited for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please. 

VACANCY DEADLINE: September18, 2020

EDC is committed to enhancing the diversity of its workforce and ensuring an equitable and highly inclusive work environment. EDC is a smoke-free workplace, and offers a supportive work environment, competitive salary, and excellent benefits. Women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.