Program Associate

To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to programspositions@qfi.org with the subject line “Program Associate – QFI”. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

About the Organization

QFI is a US-based organization committed to advancing the value of teaching and learning Arabic as a global language. QFI works to increase access to research-informed Arabic instruction for educators and students.

QFI works to foster and encourage the study of Arabic as a global language by supporting the professionalization of Arabic teaching and research-informed methodology and practices. With more than a decade of experience working in the Americas, the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe, QFI has established networks of educators, administrators, students, researchers, and other experts in language learning. With Arabic language programs more prominent at the university level, the number of Arabic education programs offered at the primary and secondary level has not changed much, providing an opportunity for QFI to position Arabic as a global language that is taught at an earlier age.

Position Summary

The Program Associate (PA) works to administer and support a portfolio of grants and programs related to the teaching and learning of the Arabic language. The PA is responsible for the announcement, application, review, award, monitoring, and closing processes of certain QFI grant programs. The Program Associate also supports domestic and international programmatic activities such as teacher professional development workshops, trainings, and conferences, working in an efficient and time-sensitive manner and interacting with a range of QFI beneficiaries, consultants, and other stakeholders. The Program Associate also supports the Programs team by performing a wide range of key administrative tasks, including events management as well as managing submissions in QFI’s grants management portal.

Position Functions and Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, each essential duty and responsibility must be performed satisfactorily. Periodic travel (domestic and international) is a requirement of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may be assigned to meet business needs.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Process grants related to the teaching and learning of the Arabic language, overseeing all aspects of the grant lifecycle.
• Provide logistical and administrative support for the development and implementation of QFI educator programming. Responsibilities include:
  • Coordinate and serve as the primary point of contact for event participants, including on-site for trainings, workshops, and conferences in the various geographies where QFI works.
  • Coordinate work with consultants, contractors, advisors, and event participants, including drafting contracts and processing invoices and reimbursements.
  • Monitor programs for programmatic impact - gather and organize relevant programmatic data for monitoring and evaluation purposes.
• Coordinate QFI’s presence at educator workshops, and conferences, including developing and managing an implementation plan and timeline, overseeing logistical arrangements for participants, and coordinating with the Operations, Research and Communications teams as necessary.
• Support test assessment coordination, including serving as point of contact, billing, and monitoring.
• Answer questions about QFI and its programs, when appropriate. Direct QFI beneficiaries and general community members to the correct information, resources, and fellow staff members.
• Work collaboratively in dynamic, diverse, and inclusive environments.
• Manage multiple tasks with attention to detail, independence, and initiative.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated interest in and knowledge of Arabic language and culture.
• Knowledge of and willingness to learn about subject matter areas, including education policies, teacher training pathways, inclusive classroom practices, etc.
• Demonstrated skills in problem-solving, creative thinking, and critical reflection.

Requirements

Experience

• Minimum of six months’ experience in administrative roles related to educational programs or in K-12 education.
• Previous experience in logistical planning and coordination of meetings and/or events.
• Previous study and working proficiency of both written and spoken Arabic language.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in a field of study such as Arabic, Middle Eastern Studies, Education, or other relevant field.

Working Conditions

• QFI currently operates on a Hybrid Work Policy with in-person work required two days per week (The department lead requires Thursdays to be one of the two days). Employees may be required to travel to QFI offices or third-party sites to attend meetings, events, or for other situations as deemed necessary by their supervisor.
• Mostly sedentary; must be able to lift up to 20 lbs.
• Up to 20% travel required (international and domestic) following QFI’s Travel Policy

This position description should not be construed to imply that the requirements are the sole standards for the position. Incumbents are expected to perform all other duties as required.

To be considered for this position you must reside in the Washington, DC metro area. All applicants must be able to provide proof of authorization to work in the US if hired.

To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to programspositions@qfi.org with the subject line “Program Associate – QFI”. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.