Vocational ESL Intern

International Rescue Committee•Salt Lake, UT

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) Intern will play a crucial role in supporting community-based VESL program with adult students at varying levels of English proficiencies including preliterate beginners. The classes aim to empower students by gaining the literacy, language, and confidence needed to navigate everyday life in the US. These skills expand resource accessibility, employment opportunities, and self-sufficiency. Tasks may include setting up the classroom, making copies, answering clients’ questions regarding language and culture, assisting with classroom activities, data entry, and administering placement assessments during student registration appointments.

Requirements

Currently pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree or recent graduate (TESOL, TEFL, or related field and/or working towards receiving TESOL/TEFL certification is a plus)
An interest in or experience with teaching generally and teaching ESL specifically
Cultural awareness of and sensitivity to vulnerable populations, and a desire to help refugees adjust to life in the U.S.
Ability to adapt to different learning skills and environments, has a passion for education
Patience, understanding, and flexibility
Exposure to global environments and languages is a plus
Fluent in spoken and written English
Effective communication skills, especially in a multicultural environment
Engaged in learning about the IRC (mission, philosophy, global work, and local efforts) and willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies

Nice To Haves

TESOL, TEFL, or related field and/or working towards receiving TESOL/TEFL certification is a plus
Exposure to global environments and languages is a plus

Responsibilities

Attend and observe classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays
Assist VESL Instructor with the enrollment, coordination, and implementation of classes, including: Attend registration appointments and provide support with assessments and data entry
Contacting students to confirm their availability to attend classes.
Navigating client barriers to education
Communicating with local adult education services to connect students to appropriate classes
Support instructor in the preparation of the student materials for the classes
Collect data to support educational initiatives and encourage student success
Arrive a few minutes early to check in with instructor about the day’s classroom activities
Assist students with class assignments and help integrate digital literacy in the classroom
Help create a welcoming environment that fosters community and learning among program participants while interacting with diverse populations
Occasionally provide supervision when needed for young children when present during registration appointments
Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy, and practice sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of clients by respecting their beliefs and values
Other duties as assigned

Benefits

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
vision starting at $5 per month
FSA for healthcare and commuter costs
a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching
disability & life insurance
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