Vocation English as a Second Language Instructor at International Rescue Committee (IRC) – United States

International Rescue Committee (IRC) Full-time Deadline: May 11, 2026 Posted: Apr 12, 2026


Vocation English as a Second Language Instructor at International Rescue Committee (IRC) – United States

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Vocation English as a Second Language Instructor at International Rescue Committee (IRC) – United States

Recruiter: International Rescue Committee (IRC)

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About International Rescue Committee (IRC)

The International Rescue Committee responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein, the IRC now works in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities helping people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster, including the climate crisis, to survive, recover, and gain control of their future.

Job Summary

This Vocation English as a Second Language Instructor position at International Rescue Committee (IRC) in United States offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to international development. Join a diverse team working on critical global challenges. The role supports International Rescue Committee (IRC)’s work in international cooperation and sustainable development and offers valuable exposure to international cooperation in a multicultural environment.

Full Job Description

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world’s largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), at work in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity and hope to millions. If you’re a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people world-wide for a better future.

The Economic Empowerment program in Louisville supports refugees and other humanitarian immigrants in achieving economic independence through employment services, career development, and financial capability building. The Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) Instructor delivers industry focused English instruction that equips clients with the workplace language skills needed to access, retain, and advance in employment.

Major Responsibilities

Job Requirements

Plan and teach full-time VESL classes to refugee adults with a focus on vocational English acquisition.

Develop VESL lesson plans that enable clients to gain real-life skills and fully participate in their new communities.

Collaborate with the Economic Empowerment Manager to enroll, track, and update clients participation in the VESL program in accordance with contractual obligations.

Maintain case file documents for clients participation and outcomes.

Implement basic computer skills training using the IRC computer lab, focusing on VESL instruction and Microsoft Office.

Tailor lesson plans to meet the needs of varying language levels and cultural backgrounds of the refugee students.

Administer initial client intake English exam and regular assessments to ensure the clients English progress.

Maintain case file documentation for individual clients activities and outcomes for reporting purposes.

Monitor classroom participation and maintain attendance records.

Implement evaluation to determine the success and usefulness of training and programming.

Participate in IRC Communities of Practice, staff meetings, and other networking/learning opportunities in the network.

Other duties as assigned.

Education & Certifications:

Undergraduate degree in Adult Education or related field preferred. ESL certification, such as TESOL, TEFL, or CELTA, is required.

Work Experience:

Experience teaching ESL/EFL, adult education, or vocational English required.

Experience working with refugee, immigrant, or culturally diverse adult learners strongly preferred.

Experience developing curriculum or instructional materials is a plus.

Demonstrated Skills &Competencies:

Strong intercultural communication skills and ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.

Strong organizational, classroom management, and instructional planning skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Proficiency in English (spoken and written).

Commitment to IRCs core values of Integrity, Service, and Accountability.

Compensation: ( Pay Range: $21.00 – $23.00 ) Posted pay ranges apply to US-based candidates. Ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget. Exact offers are calibrated by work location, individual candidate experience and skills relative to the defined job requirements.

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

All International Rescue Committee workers must adhere to the core values and principles outlined in IRC Way – Standards for Professional Conduct . Our Standards are Integrity, Service, Equality and Accountability. In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Safeguarding , Conflicts of Interest, Fiscal Integrity, and Reporting Wrongdoing and Protection from Retaliation. IRC is committed to take all necessary preventive measures and create an environment where people feel safe, and to take all necessary actions and corrective measures when harm occurs. IRC builds teams of professionals who promote critical reflection, power sharing, debate, and objectivity to deliver the best possible services to our clients.

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US Benefits: We offer a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. In the US, these include: 10 sick days, 10 US holidays, 20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure, medical insurance starting at $163 per month, dental starting at $6.50 per month, and vision starting at $5 per month, FSA for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching, disability & life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support counseling and care in times of crisis and mental health struggles.

Equal Opportunity Employer: IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Key Details

  • Job Title: Vocation English as a Second Language Instructor
  • Grade: N/A
  • Location: Louisville, United States
  • Department: International Rescue Committee (IRC)
  • Contract Type: Professional Staff
  • Estimated Salary Range:$84,000 – $144,000 USD annually

Qualifications

  • Undergraduate degree in Adult Education or related field preferred. ESL certification, such as TESOL, TEFL, or CELTA, is required.

Skills

  • Not specified in the official posting

Benefits

  • Competitive compensation package
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
  • Inclusive and collaborative work environment

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the official UN careers portal. Female candidates and candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.