Job Description

Literacy Specialist

FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Benefits Eligibility – This position is eligible for a full benefits package.
Salary – $44.47 - $49.74 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – Hybrid

Recruiter – Elida Barrera | ebarrera@utah.gov | 385-295-7911
Application Deadline – 9/2/2026*

*This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Key Responsibilities

The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) is looking for a Literacy Specialist with strong experience in both instructional practice and leadership. In this role, you will lead statewide initiatives to advance the science of reading by working collaboratively with Local Education Agencies (LEAs) and university-based teacher preparation programs to advance the science of reading in Utah. Additionally, you will work with a team to support improving literacy outcomes, build the capacity of educators, and ensure alignment between pre-service teacher training and in-service classroom instruction.

Principal Duties

As a Literacy Specialist working with LEAs and Universities, you will:

• Provide leadership as a statewide expert in the development and implementation of the science of reading for elementary schools and university teacher preparation programs.
• Partner with university-based teacher preparation programs to integrate the science of reading into their courses and clinical experiences.
• Collaborate with colleges, universities, and other education institutions to improve the pre-service and in-service education of teachers, administrators, and school personnel.
• Monitor university programs for newly defined content and pedagogical competencies and support the implementation of state-wide foundations of reading assessments.
• Develop and provide professional learning in the science of reading for teachers, coaches, administrators, LEA leaders, and paraprofessionals.
• Use evidence-based adult learning principles to support the work with educators to integrate professional learning into classroom practice.
• Analyze literacy data to develop comprehensive reports for schools, the USBE, and the Legislature as required and interpret, clarify, explain, and apply USBE policy and procedures.
• Facilitate meetings with small and large decision-making groups.
• Travel to various locations in and out of state for professional learning, school monitoring, and/or professional meetings.
• Take initiative on special projects and emerging literacy priorities as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

All applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications:

• LETRS Certified or has completed LETRS 3rd edition
• Training in adult learning theory
• Data analysis training and experience, including in benchmark reading assessments (e.g., Acadience Reading)
• Experience providing professional learning to adults
• A minimum of five years of elementary teaching experience (preferred)
• At least three years of instructional coaching, leadership, or equivalent experience
• A current Utah Professional Educator License or equivalent from another jurisdiction
  
  

The Ideal Candidate

In addition to the minimum qualifications, the ideal candidate will possess the following preferred qualifications:

• A master’s degree in education, literacy, reading, administration, or a related field (preferred)
• LETRS Facilitator completion
• Teaching experience at an institution of higher education
• A USBE Instructional Coaching Endorsement
• Strong professional learning facilitation skills and deep mentoring/collaboration skills

About the Role

Location –
250 East 500 South
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84111
United States
Background Check Required – Yes
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – AE - Employees of the State Board of Edu. This is a career service exempt at will position.

Why You Should Join Our Team
In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The Agency
For more information please visit schools.utah.gov

EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.