NSLI-Y Chinese (Mandarin) Summer Program Resident Director

OVERVIEW

iEARN-USA is currently seeking a qualified Resident Director to work in Taiwan on a summer language program for U.S. high school students. The program, the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y), is focused on Chinese (Mandarin) language acquisition and takes place in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

ANTICIPATED EMPLOYMENT DATES

Early May – Mid-August, 2025

• Mid-May – Mid-June 2025: (part-time, remote)
• Mid-June – Early August, 2025 (full-time, in-person in U.S. at brief pre-departure orientation and on program in Kaohsiung, Taiwan)
  • Includes round-trip travel between gateway city and program location.
• Early – Mid August 2025 (part-time, remote)

Please note that exact dates will vary by program specifics. The program may be canceled or moved to a virtual format.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Resident Director (RD) represents iEARN-USA and Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages in their activities during the tenure of the appointment. The RD works with iEARN-USA staff, another Resident Director, the Local Coordinator, and the Wenzao team in Kaohsiung. The RD serves as a cultural and academic liaison for around 28 students aged 15–19 during their overseas program. The RD is responsible for the ongoing monitoring of the safety and well-being of students. The RD must be available to students on a daily basis and be available to students 24/7 in case of emergency. The RD also plays a key role in supporting participant learning and encouraging the use of the target language as much as possible. The RD may be expected to provide support to the Local Coordinator and local team in observing students’ classes and implementing host family visits.

Prior to departure, the RD will be required to attend online and/or in-person training sessions, as well as take part as a staff member at a pre-departure orientation organized by iEARN-USA. In May, RDs will begin part-time, remote work in coordination with iEARN-USA on pre-program webinars, orientation planning and implementation, and logistical support. RDs are required to travel internationally with their respective student groups at the beginning and end of their NSLI-Y programs. RDs may be required to stay an extra night in the international gateway city after the end of the program to support student travelers. RDs will also complete post-program part-time work, including final reports and debriefs with iEARN-USA. This is a term position.

RDs report to iEARN-USA.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Be responsible for and available to support a group of American high school students during their program, including chaperoning students during program activities and being on-call 24/7 for emergencies;
• Respond to participant emergencies, including but not limited to: assisting participants with securing medical care and navigating local clinics and hospitals, submitting medical reports for each clinic visit within one business day, and informing and updating colleagues on students, as needed;
• Lead weekly group sessions and regular individual check-ins with students to enhance language learning experience, cultural understanding, and well-being on program;
• Advise program participants as needed on diverse issues related to their study abroad experience including, but not limited to: language learning, host family adjustment, culture shock, program logistics, homesickness, interpersonal and group dynamics, etc.;
• Enforce iEARN-USA, NSLI-Y, and organizational policies, including policies related to COVID-19;
• Participate in pre-program webinars and monitor student participation in online pre-departure orientation modules;
• Co-facilitate and plan in-person student pre-departure orientation sessions;
• Review student information and other program materials to facilitate on-program support;
• Submit comprehensive and detailed student contact reports by weekly deadlines;
• Submit final program report and individual student evaluations at conclusion of program;
• Assist Wenzao with classroom observations, conducting visits to students’ host families, and resolving potential interpersonal conflicts or misunderstandings, as needed;
• Meet regularly with iEARN-USA and Wenzao, including virtually, to share and discuss student and program updates;
• Submit weekly program highlights to iEARN-USA and collect high-quality, dynamic photos and videos from students and staff to demonstrate program impact; and,
• Perform any related duties or special projects as directed by iEARN-USA or Wenzao.

CAPABILITIES AND PERSONALITY TRAITS

• Exceptional drive and passion for international education;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, conversant to fluent Mandarin Chinese language ability;
• High emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills; ability to listen and to engage a wide range of partners;
• Flexibility and willingness to work outside primary job description and traditional work hours; and,
• An appreciation for and eagerness to work with a diverse, innovative, and trailblazing youth community.

EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Chinese, international or area studies, Education, Social Work, or related field;
• Study, work, or extensive life experience in China or Taiwan and the United States, and with Chinese or Taiwanese and American culture;
• Proven ability to work with and lead high school students;
• Demonstrated skills in academic and personal counseling or Residential Life;
• Must be able to pass a criminal background check;
• Must have a passport that is valid through at least 6 months after the program dates;
• Prior experience as a participant on a U.S. Government-sponsored exchange program is preferable, but not required.

Resident Directors are responsible for securing their own housing for the duration of the full-time, in-person work.

iEARN-USA is not able to sponsor a work visa for this position.

iEARN-USA is an equal-opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion. Interested applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply for this position. iEARN-USA does not discriminate on the basis of ethnicity, race, color, national origin, age, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability.