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Esl Program Director Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Esl Program Director information

What does an ESL Program Director do?

An ESL (English as a Second Language) Program Director oversees the development, implementation, and administration of ESL programs within educational institutions or organizations. Their responsibilities include curriculum planning, staff recruitment and training, budgeting, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards. They also assess program effectiveness, support instructors, and facilitate communication between students, teachers, and administrators. Ultimately, their goal is to ensure high-quality English language instruction for non-native speakers.

What are some common challenges ESL Program Directors face when managing diverse instructional teams?

ESL Program Directors often lead teams comprised of instructors from various cultural and educational backgrounds, which can present challenges in aligning teaching methods, communication styles, and program goals. Managing these differences requires strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative environment. Regular training, open communication channels, and clear expectations are essential for ensuring that all team members work effectively toward student success.

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

To thrive as an ESL Program Director, you need expertise in language education, curriculum development, and program management, often supported by a master's degree in TESOL, education, or a related field. Familiarity with student information systems, learning management platforms, and assessment tools is typically required. Strong leadership, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for guiding staff and engaging diverse student populations. These skills ensure the successful design and administration of programs that meet learners' needs and maintain high educational standards.

What is the difference between Esl Program Director vs Esl Instructor?

AspectEsl Program DirectorEsl Instructor
CredentialsBachelor's degree, TESOL/TEFL certification, experience in program managementBachelor's degree, TESOL/TEFL certification, teaching experience
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, program planning, staff supervisionClassrooms, language labs, teaching settings
Employer & IndustryLanguage schools, universities, educational organizationsLanguage schools, colleges, private institutions
Primary FocusManaging and developing ESL programs, overseeing staffTeaching English to students, curriculum delivery

The main difference is that an Esl Program Director focuses on managing ESL programs, overseeing staff, and curriculum development, while an Esl Instructor primarily teaches students in classroom settings. Both roles require TESOL/TEFL certification and relevant experience, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Esl Program Director jobs in Maine?

For Esl Program Director jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Esl Program Director job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Adult Ed English,Literacy and ESL Teacher

Kittery Schools

Kittery, ME • On-site

$3.8K - $44K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develops and implements lesson plans using CCRS Standards and Benchmarks for adult education and ESL learners.

  • Provides direct small group instruction and support to students using research-based materials and strategies.

  • Creates and maintains curriculum, lesson plans, and Individual Learning Plans to support students' academic and career goals.


Job description

Position:  Adult Ed English, Literacy and ESL Teacher

Location: Kittery School District

Reports To: Director of Adult Education

Start Date: July 1, 2026

Required Certification: Maine Credential in K-12 or Adult Ed English, Social Studies or ESOL and CHRC

Application Deadline:  Open until suitable candidate is found 

Schedule and Benefits:

Work days 184 ( 7.5 hour) that follow flexible year round program's schedules, in person teaching Mon. - Thur. at both the Kittery and Marshwood Adult Education programs. Individualized instruction with small student load, often 1:3 ratio, motivated mature students with opportunity for long term learning relationships. Minimal curriculum preparation, use of published text and digital contextualized, work-related curriculum (real world connections).

Primary employment is with Kittery working 60% of total hours and 40% will be at Marshwood. The position requires working 3-4 evenings until 8 PM per week including limited summer hours when students are scheduled. A single Kittery health benefit plan will be offered. Salary $38,00- $44,000 depending on education, certification and experience.

Primary Duties:

         The primary duties are to provide instruction to adults who wish to earn a high school diploma or to further their education and career opportunities by taking ESL, HiSET, or literacy studies.

Qualifications, Education/Certification :

?Bachelor's Degree

?Maine Department of Education teacher or adult education endorsement for English/Social Studies eligibility required.

?Master's Degrees or specialized training with an emphasis on literacy education are highly desirable and preferred.

Duties and Responsibilities:

         The responsibilities outlined below are representative and do not encompass all tasks that may be required by this position.

?Develops and implements lesson plans using CCRS Standards and Benchmarks for ABE/ASE and ESL learners as needed.

?Demonstrates knowledge, understanding and skill in the subject matter.

?Provides direct small group instruction and support to students using research based materials, resources, and strategies.

?Develops and maintains curriculum that assist students in identifying short and long term goals as a component of student proficiency necessary to function effectively in adult life, focussing on further education, employment-related training, and/or employment.

?Creates and develops curriculum, lesson plans, teaching materials, and Individual Learning Plans to aid students in developing skills and confidence in basic academic areas.

?Incorporates the four strands of language: reading, writing, speaking, and listening when designing curriculum.

?Designs and implements contextual ABE/HiSET curriculum, instructional materials and activities including testing strategies and study skills.

?Provides literacy instruction that reflects multiple perspectives and multi-cultural education using  appropriate texts and resources including fiction and non-fiction.

?Integrates computer-aided instruction into lessons as appropriate.

?Uses instructional strategies and techniques to meet the needs of individual students in multi-level classes which incorporate learning styles and modes to accelerate learning and growth for each learner.

?Modifies instruction and manages instructional time effectively to maximize each student's potential including students with special needs (IEP).

?Collects individual student achievement and growth data that is periodically shared with the student and other staff.

?Organizes and maintains written documentation of classroom and student activities in case notes and disseminates according to program requirements.

?Maintains attendance records, academic progression, and student HiSET files.

?Manages student behavior in the classroom.

?Administers pre assessments. 

?Participates in staff meetings.

?Facilitates collaboration among  staff on literacy practices.

?Participates in professional development as appropriate to the position.

?Provides guidance to volunteer tutors who will work with students  one on one or in small group settings.

Candidates must submit to a Criminal History Record Check through the Maine Department of Education.  

Required Application Materials:

Completed Applitrack Application

Resume

Cover Letter

A copy of current certification (if applicable)

3 current letters of reference

Letters of reference must be dated, signed, and written within the last 3 years