Department: DGE – Center for Applied Second Language Studies

Rank: Research Assistant

Annual Basis: 12 Month

Review of Applications Begins

January 2, 2025; position open until filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

To ensure consideration, a complete application must include:

• A current resume/CV.
• A cover letter demonstrating how your skills and experience meet the minimum and preferred qualifications for the position.
• Three (3) professional references with contact information. References will not be contacted until you are notified.

Department Summary

Creating Innovative Approaches to Language Learning Since 1994

The Center for Applied Second Language Studies (CASLS) at the University of Oregon supports innovative world language teaching and learning. We develop research-based curricula, professional development resources, and assessments to support infrastructure and innovation.

We are one of sixteen National Foreign Language Resource Centers that work to increase the nation’s capacity for language education. Our resources incorporate best practices in pedagogy, the latest in second language acquisition research, and technology that’s usable in the classroom.

Position Summary

As the Curriculum and Support Specialist, you will be managing the execution of various pedagogical projects centered around world language education in K-16 and communality contexts. Your management responsibilities may either be pedagogically or administratively focused. Pedagogically, these processes may include the design, piloting, and revision of curricular materials for learners and educators. Design work may include the creation of materials including scopes and sequences, timelines of instructional activities, instructional manuals, learning materials, in-class assessments and rubrics, and educator support materials up to and including the delivery of training related to best practices in world language education. Administratively, your responsibilities may also include setting and enforcing timelines and coordinating the delivery of pedagogical or instructional services.

As the Curriculum and Support Specialist, you will provide ongoing project management of CASLS’ language learning programs, often utilizing emerging technologies and taking advantage of digital and hybrid contexts. You may also work with language experts who will provide input and guidance on language-specific issues. Curriculum should be aligned with national standards.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in second language acquisition, applied linguistics, teacher education, second/foreign language methods, or related field
• Three (3) years teaching language in K-16 or community contexts or equivalent experience

Professional Competencies

• Ability to think critically in unique situations and problem-solve.
• Ability to adapt to dynamic needs and project timelines.
• Ability to self-motivate, realize, and independently initiate self-directed work.
• Ability to work effectively and successfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures in a team environment as well as individually.
• Ability to work in multilingual and multicultural team environment.
• Ability to work in face-to-face, hybrid, and remote contexts.
• Knowledge of proficiency benchmarks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or Doctoral degree in second language acquisition, applied linguistics, teacher education, second/foreign language methods, or related field.
• Proficiency in a language other than English, especially a less commonly taught language (LCTL).
• Four (4) years teaching world languages including English at the high school or college level.
• Familiarity with the use of digital tools for second/foreign language teaching and learning.
• Experience in online course design and/or online instructional experience.

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information about benefits, visit https://hr.uoregon.edu/about-benefits .

The University of Oregon is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the ADA. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation in connection with the application process, please contact us at uocareers@uoregon.edu or 541-346-5112.

UO prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy (including pregnancy-related conditions), age, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including family medical history), ancestry, familial status, citizenship, service in the uniformed services (as defined in federal and state law), veteran status, expunged juvenile record, and/or the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by UO policy. Questions may be referred to the Office of Investigations and Civil Rights Compliance. Contact information, related policies, and complaint procedures are listed here .

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About Organization

Nestled in the lush Willamette Valley, with an easy drive to both the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, the University of Oregon is renowned for its research prowess and commitment to teaching. The UO is one of just two Pacific Northwest members of the prestigious Association of American Universities, a consortium of 62 leading public and private research institutions in the United States and Canada.