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Esl Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

ESL Instructor

River Grove, IL · On-site

$48.42/hr

Posting Details Posting Summary Posting Number S00035P Position Title ESL Instructor Position Type Adjunct Faculty Department Adult Education Essential Function Directly responsible to the Department ...

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Esl Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$24.2K

$58.4K

$101K

How much do esl instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for esl instructor in Chicago, IL is $58,407.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,800.00 and $64,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are ESL instructors?

ESL instructors are educators who teach English as a Second Language to non-native speakers. Their role involves helping students improve their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in English, often in classroom or one-on-one settings. ESL instructors tailor lessons to students' proficiency levels and cultural backgrounds, using specialized teaching methods and materials. They may work in schools, language institutes, community programs, or online platforms.

What is the difference between Esl Instructor vs Esl Teacher?

AspectEsl InstructorEsl Teacher
CredentialsTypically requires a TEFL/TESOL certification and a bachelor's degreeUsually requires a TEFL/TESOL certification and a bachelor's degree
Work EnvironmentLanguage schools, online platforms, private tutoringLanguage schools, public schools, private institutions
Employer & IndustryLanguage training centers, online education companiesPublic and private educational institutions
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for interchangeably with Esl Teacher, focusing on teaching rolesMore formal teaching roles, often in schools or institutions

Both Esl Instructors and Esl Teachers typically require similar certifications and work in language education settings. The main difference lies in the context: Esl Instructors often work in private or online settings, while Esl Teachers are more commonly employed in schools or formal educational institutions. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers target their search more effectively.

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

To thrive as an ESL Instructor, you need a solid understanding of English grammar, language acquisition theory, and a recognized teaching qualification such as TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA. Familiarity with digital learning platforms, classroom technology, and assessment tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability help instructors connect with diverse learners and address varying needs. These skills ensure effective teaching, foster student engagement, and support language development in multicultural classroom settings.

How does an ESL Instructor typically collaborate with other educators and staff in a language school setting?

ESL Instructors often work closely with fellow teachers, academic coordinators, and administrative staff to ensure a cohesive learning experience for students. Collaboration may include sharing lesson plans, participating in curriculum development meetings, and coordinating assessments or student progress reviews. Instructors also communicate regularly with support staff to address student needs and may participate in workshops or training sessions to align teaching methods with school standards. This teamwork helps create a supportive and dynamic environment for both teachers and learners.
What are the most commonly searched types of Esl Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Esl Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Esl Instructor jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Esl Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Esl Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,407 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Instructor - ESL Intensive Program

Instructor - ESL Intensive Program

Computer Systems Institute Inc

Chicago, IL • On-site

$25/hr

Part-time

Vision, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Adjunct Intensive English Program Instructor for CSI

Supervisor's Title: Academic Dean

Department: Academics

General Summary: The English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor will teach courses within the ESL Programs. The instructor will be responsible for planning and delivering ESL curriculum. Along with the classroom hours, there will be a strong focus on using a learning management system and collaborative learning.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Teaches courses in Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced ESL
  • Prepares lesson plans as part of administrative tasks per class assignment
  • Delivers lectures and facilitates project-based learning (PBL)
  • Evaluates and monitors students’ progress
  • Maintains necessary records to report student academic progress (SAP) to the Academic Dean
  • Attends quarterly ESL instructor in-service meetings
  • Stays abreast with the trends and developments in ESL studies by attending professional development activities outside of CSI and completing a minimum of two professional development activities annually
  • Organizes and leads field trips for students
  • Actively contributes to program improvement
  • Provides academic advising and support to students

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of pedagogical methods teaching ESL
  • Native or near-native ability to speak English

Education and Experience: The position requires a Bachelor or Master degree in ESL/EFL, two years prior teaching experience required. In Cases where the Bachelor or Master Degree is not in ESL/EFL, language teaching faculty must have a specific knowledge base and skill set that includes, at a minimum, the following:

  • Language teaching methodology
  • The nature of language/languages (e.g., introduction to linguistics
  • The structure of English ( e.g., syntax, phonology, morphology, discourse)
  • Second language acquisition
  • Intercultural communication ( e.g., sociolinguistics, crosscultural studies)
  • Practicum experience

Physical Requirements: While performing the duties of this job, the instructor is regularly required to stand; walk and sit. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: Normal office working conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Benefits Offered:

  • Paid Time Off