Job Description

Job Location: Dushanbe, Tajikistan - Dushanbe, Tajikistan,

Position Type: Contractor, Consultant/Contractor

Compensation for the duration of the assignment: $5,000 - 8,000 depending on program type and length.

ANTICIPATED CONTRACT DATES

May - August 2027 (exact dates vary by program specifics). Resident Director training dates will be announced separately.

Position SUMMARY

American Councils seeks qualified individuals to serve as Persian-speaking Resident Directors to work on a variety of summer Persian language programs approximately eight weeks in length. Programs are designed for undergraduate and graduate students. All programs offer intensive Persian language instruction and structured cultural enrichment experiences designed to promote rapid language gains. The degree to which the program focuses on Farsi or Tajiki varies by program. Programs are expected to be held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Resident Directors represent American Councils on programs overseas and serve as the primary liaison between the host institution, American Councils, and program participants. Resident Directors advise participants, facilitate medical care, and work with local and American Councils DC staff to troubleshoot issues.

Resident Directors must be available to program participants daily and maintain daily communication with American Councils DC staff. Resident Directors regularly observe classes at the host institution; meet regularly with teachers, administrators, and participants; chaperone and/or arrange group travel and cultural programs; and coordinate other events and activities focused on the immersion experience. Personal travel outside the program site or group excursions is not permitted.

Resident Directors oversee a small program budget and are responsible for proper documentation of program expenditures and timely completion of an expense report at the end of each month. Other reporting requirements may apply.

Prior to departure, Resident Directors are required to complete a multi-day virtual Resident Director training. Resident Directors may be asked to travel to program site in advance of the students’ arrival or with their respective participant groups at the beginning of their programs and return to Washington, DC, with the group at the end of the program. Resident Directors report to the DC-based Program Manager and staff. Completion of a successful background check is required. All offers are contingent upon the candidate's ability to receive and maintain a visa to the host country where applicable.

Position Responsibilities

• Be responsible for and available to a group of American undergraduate and graduate students at all times during the program;
• Respond to participant emergencies 24/7, including assisting participants with securing medical care and navigating local clinics and hospitals;
• Advise program participants as needed on a variety of language-learning, cultural, adjustment and logistical aspects of the program, including on issues such as group dynamics and interpersonal relationships, among others;
• Report on program activities to program staff in Washington, DC and/or staff in the host country;
• Provide support to students from a range of backgrounds, including those who have never traveled abroad before;
• Work closely with the host institution and local program staff daily;
• Observe language classes weekly;
• Chaperone and/or arrange group travel and cultural programs, as well as volunteer opportunities and other program events (varies by program);
• Maintain adherence to program rules and policies among participants – for some programs, this includes a language policy;
• Manage a small budget of program funds and maintain detailed financial documentation, including monthly reports;
• Collect and submit photographs and videos from students and local staff and create newsletters (varies by program);
• Complete pre-departure orientation and training;
• Work with host families as needed, which may include selection and monitoring of host families, conducting site visits, maintaining weekly communication, and conflict resolution (varies by program);
• Resolve other program-related issues as necessary; and
• Perform other program-related tasks as directed.

Qualifications

• Advanced written and oral language skills in Persian (minimum 2/2+ on DLPT scale, Advanced on ACTFL scale) – knowledge of Farsi or Tajiki is required;
• Study, work, or extensive travel experience in Tajikistan or the region;
• Experience working in a position of authority with high school, undergraduate, or graduate students;
• Experience overseeing and guiding groups;
• Demonstrated skills in academic and personal counseling preferred; and
• Demonstrated skills in general financial accountability.

Additional Information about the Position

Position contingent upon funding and upon the approval of overseas travel for participants. Program location is subject to change prior to program start.

Applicants should provide a description of previous experience in Tajikistan or other Persian-speaking countries, including familiarity with additional regional languages and the length of time spent in any specific location, in their cover letter. Resumes will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

American Councils is committed to providing employment opportunities for all individuals, in accordance with current federal regulations. Our focus is on ensuring that all individuals have equal access to employment and advancement opportunities based on merit.

American Councils’ commitment to employment opportunity is driven by federal requirements, including Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act (supporting individuals with disabilities) and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) (protecting covered veterans). We also ensure our employment practices comply with all applicable regulations, including E-Verify requirements for work eligibility. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace where all individuals have the opportunity to succeed and grow, in full compliance with federal law.