Instructor-Area Studies

About This Role

This position is for an Instructor in Area Studies within the Department of State’s School of Professional and Area Studies (SPAS). The role involves designing, delivering, and evaluating training courses using adult learning principles, aligning with DOS standards. The instructor will facilitate interactive sessions for in-person and/or virtual classrooms.

Responsibilities

• Maintain communication with Course Chairs/Coordinators for content guidance and the Contractor for technical guidance.
• Review and update existing course guidance, design/lesson plan, syllabus, and schedule to incorporate adult learning principles.
• Create or update course materials based on research and expertise, ensuring compliance with NFATC and U.S. Government standards.
• Coordinate with SPAS division staff to send welcome emails to students with pre-reading materials and the final course schedule.
• Identify and invite guest subject matter experts, preparing them to facilitate discussions and ensure they cover learning objectives.
• Ensure appropriate classroom set-up, working audiovisual equipment, and necessary materials for in-person classes.
• Teach and engage students in a variety of sessions including lectures, discussions, and interactive activities.
• Manage the classroom to ensure a safe and effective learning environment and address any deviations from norms.
• Ensure students complete end-of-course evaluations and explain how to access their course completion records.
• Meet with the CPM and Course Chairs/Coordinators to provide initial observations and recommendations for course improvement.

Requirements

• Master’s degree
• 5+ years experience and expertise in Area Studies
• 5+ years experience with instructional design, professional training, or academic teaching
• Ability to work independently and with diverse teams
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Word, Excel)
• Understanding of the United States Government, U.S. Department of State, and U.S. foreign affairs
• Fluent English
• Public Trust Security Clearance

Qualifications

• Master's degree required
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience and substantive expertise and recognition as an expert in their area of expertise. Minimum of 5 years of experience with instructional design, professional training, or academic teaching and delivery of engaging training for experienced, adult learners.

Nice to Have

• PhD preferred
• Experience designing and delivering online courses
• Time living overseas in the region or significant academic work focused on that region
• Fluency in a language of the region

Skills

* Required skills

Benefits