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Adult Literacy Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Adult Literacy Instructor information

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$61.5K

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How much do adult literacy instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for adult literacy instructor in the United States is $61,538.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $67,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an adult literacy instructor do?

An Adult Literacy Instructor teaches reading, writing, and basic math skills to adults who want to improve their literacy. They assess each student's skill level and create tailored lesson plans to help learners achieve their educational goals. Instructors often work in community centers, schools, or non-profit organizations, and may also help students prepare for high school equivalency exams or improve their English language skills. Their work empowers adults to gain confidence, pursue further education, or improve their job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an adult literacy instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Adult Literacy Instructor, you need expertise in literacy instruction, curriculum development, and assessment, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with educational software, assessment tools, and learning management systems (LMS) is often required. Patience, cultural sensitivity, and strong interpersonal communication are essential soft skills for engaging adult learners and addressing diverse learning needs. These skills are crucial for effectively supporting adult students in achieving literacy goals and fostering a positive, inclusive learning environment.

What is the difference between Adult Literacy Instructor vs ESL Teacher?

AspectAdult Literacy InstructorESL Teacher
CredentialsGED, TESOL/TEFL certification often preferredTESOL/TEFL certification, sometimes ESL teaching credentials
Work EnvironmentAdult education centers, community colleges, nonprofitsLanguage schools, community colleges, adult education programs
Employer & IndustryAdult education, nonprofit, governmentLanguage education, international or local language schools
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on adult literacy and basic skillsFocus on teaching English as a second language

Adult Literacy Instructors primarily teach basic reading, writing, and math skills to adults, often in community settings. ESL Teachers focus on teaching English language skills to non-native speakers. While both roles involve adult education and may require similar certifications, their target populations and teaching goals differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right fit based on their skills and interests.

What are some common challenges adult literacy instructors face when working with adult learners, and how are they addressed?

Adult Literacy Instructors often encounter diverse learning needs, varying literacy levels, and learners who may have had negative educational experiences in the past. Building trust and creating a supportive, respectful classroom environment is crucial. Instructors typically use differentiated instruction, real-life materials, and flexible pacing to address these challenges, ensuring that each student can progress at their own speed and feel motivated. Collaboration with colleagues and access to professional development also help instructors stay equipped with effective teaching strategies.
More about Adult Literacy Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Adult Literacy Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Adult Literacy Instructor job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Adult Literacy Instructor jobs? The top employers for Adult Literacy Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Adult Literacy Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Adult Literacy Instructor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Adult Literacy Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Adult Literacy Instructor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Adult Literacy Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,538 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Adult Literacy Coordinator, English Language Learner

Indian Hills Community College

Ottumwa, IA • On-site

$37K - $44K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Salary: $37,290.00 - $44,561.00 Annually
Location : Ottumwa Main Campus, IA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 202400182
Department: Adult Basic Education-Learning
Opening Date: 07/22/2026
FLSA: Exempt
Description
Under the general supervision of the Director of Adult Education and Literacy, the Adult Literacy Coordinator, English Language Learner (ELL) is responsible for coordinating the planning, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of the non-credit English Language Learner program throughout the Indian Hills Community College service area. Responsibilities include supervising and supporting ELL instructors, ensuring compliance with federal and state Adult Education and Literacy (AEFLA/WIOA Title II) requirements, coordinating curriculum and assessment practices, supporting student recruitment and retention, and assisting with state and federal reporting. Based on program needs, the coordinator may also provide direct classroom instruction.
Vision:
Indian Hills Community College will transform the future through education and empowerment.
Mission:
Indian Hills Community College changes lives by inspiring learning, diversity, social enrichment, and regional economic advancement.
Core Values:
Indian Hills Community College is committed to belonging, community, diversity, excellence, innovation, integrity, service and success.
Minimum Job Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Education, English, TESOL, Applied Linguistics, Communications, or a related field required; master's degree preferred.
  • Experience teaching English language learners or multilingual adult learners required.
  • Supervisory or instructional leadership experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of adult education principles and second language acquisition.
  • Ability to supervise and support instructors located throughout the IHCC service area.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Experience with curriculum development, instructional improvement, and assessment.
  • Ability to analyze data and maintain accurate program records.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, employers, and community partners.
  • Ability to obtain required Adult Education and Literacy certifications.

Work Performed
  • Coordinate the day-to-day operation of the non-credit English Language Learner program throughout the IHCC service area.
  • Recruit, supervise, mentor, and evaluate ELL instructors and instructional staff.
  • Support instructors through onboarding, coaching, professional development, curriculum alignment, and instructional best practices.
  • Coordinate curriculum development and instructional resources to ensure alignment with Adult Education and Literacy standards, College and Career Readiness Standards, and program goals.
  • Assist with student recruitment, orientation, assessment, placement, persistence, and transition to postsecondary education, workforce training, and employment.
  • Monitor program quality through classroom observations, instructional support, and continuous improvement activities.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies, including AEFLA/WIOA Title II requirements.
  • Coordinate and monitor student assessment, data collection, documentation, and reporting to support state and federal accountability requirements.
  • Assist with preparation of grant applications, budgets, performance reports, monitoring activities, and program audits.
  • Develop and maintain collaborative partnerships with employers, community organizations, school districts, government agencies, and other stakeholders to expand access to English language learning services.
  • Analyze program data to identify trends, improve student outcomes, and support strategic planning.
  • Teach non-credit English Language Learner classes as needed to meet program or staffing needs.
  • Maintain regular and consistent attendance.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding students, personnel matters, and program information.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Supplemental Information
Responsible To:
Director, Adult Literacy
Position Level:
Paraprofessional - I - Exempt - Grand Funded, at-will employment on a letter of employment
*This position is dependent on grant funding and subject to change based on availability of funds.
Employment Length:
4 Term, Full Time, Benefits
Schedule:9/hrs day, Monday-Thursday
Indian Hills Community College offers a complete benefits package to full-time employees including group health insurance, dental, vision, retirement (IPERS/TIAA), deferred compensation plans (403B/457), flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
View our complete list of Employee Benefits.