Cowichan Intercultural Society is an immigrant and refugee aid society that supports the integration of newcomers into our community. We have been operating since 1981.

The LINC program, offering free language classes to eligible newcomers, is one of the foundational pillars of the Cowichan Intercultural Society. It is essential to our work ensuring that newcomers flourish in our community. We are seeking a qualified instructor to teach classes in-person, accommodating hybrid requests when asked. Content, using the LINC curriculum guidelines, should focus on developing linguistic competence, as well as cultural understanding (work environments, Canadian customs, etc.). The role requires some technological ability and familiarity with online platforms, learning management systems, and resources (i.e.,Teams, OWL, Moodle, EduLink, EdModo, ESL Library).

The ideal candidate would have:

• TESL Canada teaching Certification
• minimum of 1 year teaching experience in adult ESL settings
• demonstrated familiarity with Portfolio Based Language Assessment (PBLA) and the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) is an asset or the willingness to complete the free PBLA training and implement in the classroom.
• competency using technology in the classroom (including basic instructional equipment, such as printer and projector) and online teaching experience (familiar with online platforms such as Zoom).
• a sensitivity for intercultural and inclusive communities.
• excellence in verbal, written and interpersonal communications.
• demonstrated success in relationship building.
• the ability to work as a team and support colleagues.
• the ability to stay focused with a positive attitude in a busy environment.
• the ability to multi-task and juggle multiple, moving parts.
• adeptness at skill liaising between students, teachers, assistants, Childcare Coordinator, upper management, and CIS staff in general.
• excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to client needs.
• attention to detail.
• strong organizational skills, including managing multiple classes, teachers and schedules.
• computer literacy, including email, Word processing, Excel, and internet research.
• willingness to embrace new ideas/systems as the landscape of our work changes and evolves.
• ability to share our vision and mission and engage others in support of Cowichan Intercultural Society.

Part-Time, Evening OR Full-Time (20 hours teaching and 20 hours of prep/admin time). Instructional hours are for an in-person/hybrid evening class 4 evenings a week and an afternoon class 4 times per week. We would also be happy to consider two part-time candidates but most immediately need someone to teach evenings. The hourly wage is $30.00/hour and includes holiday pay and sick/wellness leave. After successful completion of the probationary period, this position includes extended health benefits, RRSP contribution, and professional development funds. This position ends March 31, 2025, subject to renewal with funding. All positions funded by IRCC are subject to the terms of the five-year (2025-2030) Contribution Agreement currently under review

We thank all applicants; however, only those shortlisted will be contacted for an interview.

Job posting open until June 26, 2024 at 4:00 pm. Interviews will be conducted throughout application period and concluded June 28th, with start date dependent on whether or not the successful candidate has already completed PBLA training. If training has been completed prior to hiring the position will start at the beginning of July. If PBLA training is required, CIS will fund the training to take place before class instruction starts at the beginning of July. Our English language programming runs throughout the year and student intake is continuous.

Interested candidates should provide resume and cover letter in PDF format to: Amanda Vance, Executive Director, at

Job Description – Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) Instructor

ACCOUNTABILITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

In-Classroom/Online – Estimated time 50%

• Provide direct language support and guidance to students, as per LINC curriculum guidelines.

• Apply professional, appropriate and innovative lesson plans consistent with best-practice teaching methods and the level-appropriate needs of students.
• Develop and maintain an inclusive & equitable classroom atmosphere where participants are welcomed and engaged in learning.
• Work towards high level of student attendance (80%+) and active participation.
• Work with, utilize and guide classroom assistants and volunteers, when applicable.

• Provide direct support to students regarding online learning, when applicable.
• Provide PBLA Assessments in class.
• Hold Learner Conferences at the end of December, when applicable, and June when students are progressing in a skill(s).
• Support clients in connecting with other CIS staff and services if needs arise in LINC environment
• Offer a kind, welcoming presence

Prep, Admin, and Training – Estimated 50%

• Design professional, appropriate and innovative lesson plans consistent with best-practice teaching methods and the level-appropriate needs of students.
• Plan appropriate activities/outings/presenters to complement curriculum activities, in cooperation with the LINC coordinator.
• Assist in developing methodology and tools to effectively support student success, including curricula, which promote civic engagement & human rights learning outcomes.
• Meet with students to provide guidance and support and CIS staff as required.

• Attend team meetings and activities (monthly LINC Team and PBLA Meetings and CIS Staff Meetings).

• Perform admin duties including email correspondence, photocopying, filing, and preparation of materials as required.
• Receive training in, and implement, Portfolio-Based Language Assessment (PBLA), and related subjects.
• Work closely with the LINC coordinator and the Settlement (Immigrant Resource and Support Services, IRSS) Team.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies and protocols.
• Assist in the integration and cross promotion of other CIS programs.