ESL​/EFL Lead Instructor & Curriculum Developer

Position overview

Salary range:
The salary range for this position is $65,000-$70,000. Off-scale salaries, i.e., a salary that is higher than the published system-wide salary at the designated rank and step, are offered when necessary to meet competitive conditions, qualifications, and experience.

Open date: November 4, 2025

Most recent review date: Wednesday, Dec 3, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

Final date: Friday, Jan 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) is the lifelong learning arm of the university. The division maintains the most diverse portfolio on the campus, with programs spanning pre-college, professional continuing education, workforce development, international academic and cultural exchange, and training services for corporate and agency partners. As a global leader in continuing education, CPE serves learners regionally, nationally and globally, and posts more than 55K enrollments annually making it the third largest UC Extension by enrollment.

Beyond its community-facing role, CPE serves as the internal hub for online education in support of other academic units on the campus. CPE employs approximately 180 employees and draws on the expertise of approximately 1,700 instructors.

Overview of the position: The Lead Instructor & Curriculum Developer role reflects our commitment to academic excellence and strategic growth. This position will serve as a key partner in instruction and curriculum development, working closely with the director and assistant director to ensure academic quality and continuous improvement. The Lead Instructor will be closely involved in the hiring and training process for new instructors and support all instructors in optimizing their teaching techniques as needed by our international students.

Their main role is to serve as lead instructor for designated courses and programs, as well as contribute to strategic, academic initiatives aligned with our goals and current educational trends.

Specific responsibilities associated with this position are:

Teaching and Preparation (70%)

Teaches courses for a wide range of language skills including reading comprehension, writing, grammar, listening comprehension, speaking, American culture, and pronunciation from elementary to advanced levels of proficiency. Uses current teaching methodologies, styles, and techniques and employs instructional media, e-learning, and educational technology to enhance the quality of instruction. Works with students with different learning styles, cultures, and language proficiencies and assesses and adapts appropriate materials to meet student needs.

Identifies and responds to student problems in class and advises students regarding academic goals and plans. Teaches in a wide variety of ESL and related programs, in a variety of settings. Possesses knowledge of linguistics, foreign language education, education, TESOL, international education, or related fields.

Curriculum Development and Academic Standards (20%)

Develops new courses and/or curriculum for a wide range of language skills in alignment with divisional goals and initiatives. Develops course syllabi and special purpose classes in conjunction with content experts. Prepares course materials for approval of academic credit and selects appropriate review processes for a variety of courses. Assists with interviewing, recruiting, and mentoring new teachers. Attends all instructor and unit meetings, as well as student events.

Develops and leads professional development workshops for instructors. Keeps abreast of current technologies, evaluation tools, and performance standards.

Professional Competence and Activity (5%)

Continue professional growth through scholarly activity in an appropriate discipline (e.g., teaching, research, publications, leadership in professional or academic associations) and/or membership in related professional, community, and governmental organizations. Participation in professional development activities that enhance effectiveness and teaching and/or administrative abilities.

University and Public Service (5%)

Substantive contributions as leader or participant on departmental and campus committees and projects. External recognition as a professional ESL instructor through seminars, workshops, leadership, consultancy, advisory groups, publications, or service to professional groups.

Appointment:

This is a full-time academic term appointment with an initial 1-year appointment, eligible for continued reappointment. The University will not offer sponsorship for this position. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate that they are legally…