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American Sign Language Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Tutor Me Education

Virtual ASL Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$40/hr

We are seeking a passionate and knowledgeable American Sign Language (ASL) Instructor to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for teaching ASL to students at varying levels of ...

Varsity Tutors

American Sign Language Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online American Sign Language tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have ...

Varsity Tutors

American Sign Language Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online American Sign Language tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have ...

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All JobsAmerican Sign Language Instructor JobsAmerican Sign Language Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

American Sign Language Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$23.7K

$60.3K

$101K

How much do american sign language instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for american sign language instructor in Chicago, IL is $60,261.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,400.00 and $65,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between American Sign Language Instructor vs Sign Language Interpreter?

AspectAmerican Sign Language InstructorSign Language Interpreter
CredentialsASL teaching certification, sometimes a degree in education or ASLCertification such as NIC (National Interpreter Certification), ASL proficiency
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, educational settings, community centersConferences, medical appointments, legal settings
Employer & IndustrySchools, universities, community programsHealthcare, legal, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentLearning ASL, teaching careersFacilitating communication, interpretation services

While both roles involve American Sign Language, an American Sign Language Instructor primarily teaches ASL in educational or community settings, focusing on language acquisition. In contrast, a Sign Language Interpreter facilitates real-time communication between deaf and hearing individuals across various professional environments. The credentials overlap but differ in certification focus, and their work environments and employer types vary accordingly.

What does an American Sign Language (ASL) Instructor do?

An American Sign Language Instructor teaches students how to communicate using ASL, which is a complete, visual language used by the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. They design and deliver lessons on ASL grammar, vocabulary, and culture, often working with individuals or groups in schools, colleges, or community centers. ASL Instructors also help students develop signing fluency and understanding of Deaf culture, preparing them for practical communication in real-life situations.

How does an American Sign Language Instructor typically collaborate with other educators and staff in a school or community program setting?

An American Sign Language (ASL) Instructor often works closely with other language teachers, support staff, and program coordinators to align curriculum and ensure an inclusive learning environment. Collaboration may involve developing interdisciplinary lessons, coordinating accessibility services, and participating in staff meetings to discuss student progress. In community programs, ASL Instructors may also partner with outreach coordinators to design workshops and events that promote Deaf culture awareness. Effective teamwork helps maximize student engagement and ensures that ASL instruction meets diverse learner needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an American Sign Language Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an American Sign Language Instructor, you need advanced ASL fluency, a strong understanding of Deaf culture, and typically a bachelor's degree in Deaf Studies, Education, or a related field. Familiarity with educational technology, video conferencing platforms, and ASL certification (such as from the American Sign Language Teachers Association) is highly valuable. Strong communication, patience, and cultural sensitivity are crucial soft skills that help build trust and effective learning environments. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate instruction, foster student engagement, and support inclusive education for diverse learners.
What are popular job titles related to American Sign Language Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL? For American Sign Language Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching American Sign Language Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for American Sign Language Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
American Sign Language Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various American Sign Language Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,261 per year, or $29 per hour.
American Sign Language Instructor

American Sign Language Instructor

After School Matters

Chicago, IL • On-site

$32/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

After School Matters rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 193 rated education and training

Job description

Summary of Position: After School Matters is seeking committed, part-time instructors to teach its American Sign Language program during the summer, fall, and spring for 15 high school participants between the ages of 14 to 20.
American Sign Language is an advanced apprenticeship. Students learn the essential vocabulary, basic grammar, and facial expressions/body language used in ASL. Instructors will supervise and lead students in understanding and expose teens to the importance of Deaf Culture and ASL basics.
The typical schedule for program sessions are as follows:
  • Summer: 6 to 7 weeks, daily Monday through Friday, four instructional hours per day. Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
  • Fall: 10 weeks, Monday through Friday (after school hours) and/or Saturday, 60-90 instructional hours (based upon the program model). Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
  • Spring: 10 weeks, Monday through Friday (after school hours) and/or Saturday, 60-90 instructional hours (based upon the program model). Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
  • Limited opportunities for Saturday only programs are available.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Expose a diverse group of teen participants to various facets of the education, linguistics, and communication industries while fostering a positive, safe, and collaborative atmosphere for all teen participants.
  • Maintain knowledge of current education, linguistics, and communication, technology and concepts
  • Prepare, organize, and supervise the weekly lessons on Deaf culture, ASL vocabulary/grammar, or ASL body language and facial expressions.
  • Develop, plan, and implement high-quality related field trips, master classes, events, and guest visits to enhance instruction and training
  • Provide supervision during program field trips and other youth engagement opportunities
  • Report all problems or concerns and program updates to After School Matters Program Specialist to maintain consistent lines of communication throughout the program session
  • Attend all planning and program dates, including: Instructor orientation, professional development workshops, meetings and other required sessions
  • Participate in the recruitment, interview, and selection process of teen program participants
  • Manage and track program activities such as attendance, interview outcomes, enrollment, evaluation surveys, and pertinent student records in an online data tracking system (CitySpan).
  • Supervise teens at an average of 15:1, instructor: teen ratio

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Proficiency in ASL: Must have a deep understanding and fluency in American Sign Language. This includes mastery of ASL grammar, vocabulary, syntax, and fingerspelling. Must be able to sign clearly and effectively communicate complex ideas in ASL.
  • Knowledge of Deaf Culture: Knowledge of cultural norms, values, history, and traditions within the Deaf community. Cultural sensitivity and respect are essential.
  • Teaching Skills: Possess effective teaching skills, including lesson planning, classroom management, and instructional design. Must be able to adapt teaching methods to meet the needs of diverse learners and create an inclusive learning environment.
  • Communication Skills: Strong communication skills are essential to effectively convey information to teens. This includes both signing fluently to explain concepts, provide feedback, and facilitate discussions.
  • Patience and Empathy: An ideal instructor is supportive, encouraging, able to provide constructive feedback, and is understanding that learning a new language requires patience and practice.
  • Customer Service Skills: Able to effectively communicate with a variety of stakeholders (teen participants, parents, ASM programs staff, vendors, etc.)

Qualifications:
  • Experience teaching, specifically teenagers, is highly preferred.
  • Culturally competent in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Commitment to diversity and inclusion is required.

Compensation: $32 / hour
About Us: After School Matters is a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that annually offers after-school and summer programs to nearly 19,000 Chicago high school teens to explore and develop their talents while gaining critical skills that will set them up for success in college and beyond.
ASM has engaged more than 450,000 Chicago teens and is the nation's largest and most successful provider of after-school and summer programs for high school teens.
ASM offers paid apprenticeships led by professionals in the fields of arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Our nationally respected youth development model has been replicated in cities across the country and earned us the City Livability Award from the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
Programs take place at community locations throughout the city, including four ASM buildings: downtown at Gallery 37 Center for the Arts and Orleans, the Michael and Karyn Lutz Center in Belmont Cragin, and the Pullman community at Gately Park. Currently, After School Matters' annual operating budget is approximately $48M and employs approximately 500 staff across the organization.
EEO: After School Matters is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, military discharge status, age, marital status, parental status, or source of income.

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