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Tefl Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Tefl information

See Iowa salary details

$22.1K

$53.3K

$92K

How much do tefl jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for tefl in Iowa is $53,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,000.00 and $59,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the TEFL position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) instructor, you need strong English language proficiency, lesson planning abilities, and a recognized TEFL certification. Familiarity with digital teaching platforms, classroom management tools, and assessment software is often required. Excellent cross-cultural communication, patience, and adaptability are crucial soft skills in this field. These qualities are vital for effectively teaching diverse learners, creating engaging lessons, and fostering a positive, productive classroom environment.

What are some typical challenges TEFL teachers face, and how can they overcome them?

TEFL teachers often face challenges such as language barriers, diverse classroom abilities, and adapting to unfamiliar cultural environments. Overcoming these challenges usually involves using visual aids, interactive activities, and differentiated instruction to meet varying needs. Building strong relationships with students and local colleagues can also help ease cultural transitions and improve communication. Many teachers find that ongoing professional development and networking with other educators support their growth and success in this dynamic role.

What is a TEFL?

A TEFL job involves teaching English as a foreign language to non-native speakers. These jobs can be found in schools, language institutes, online platforms, or as private tutoring positions. TEFL teachers work in various countries, helping students improve their English skills for academic, professional, or personal purposes. Most positions require a TEFL certification, which provides training in lesson planning, classroom management, and teaching methods.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tefl jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Tefl jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Tefl job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 33% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 56% Physical, and 44% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,254 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

We are seeking compassionate, culturally responsive Substitute Teachers to support our Adult English Language Learner (ELL) classes serving immigrant and refugee communities. As a substitute, you will provide instruction based on prepared lesson plans or adapt materials as needed to maintain a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment. Your role is essential in helping adult learners develop practical English language skills for everyday life, work, and community integration.

This is an on-call substitute position. Days and times vary based on program needs. Classes may be scheduled in the mornings, afternoons, or evenings, either in-person or virtually (if applicable).

What You'll Do

  • Deliver English language instruction to adult learners at varying proficiency levels (Pre-literacy to Advanced), using provided lesson plans or approved curriculum materials.
  • Foster a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment that reflects the diverse cultural backgrounds of students.
  • Support learners in developing skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing English for real-life contexts such as employment, healthcare, transportation, and civic engagement.
  • Manage classroom dynamics effectively, ensuring student participation and engagement.
  • Communicate with program staff regarding student progress, classroom needs, and any concerns that arise during your teaching assignment.
  • Maintain accurate attendance records and follow program procedures.

What You'll Need

  • Cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the immigrant and refugee experience.
  • Strong communication skills and classroom management abilities.
  • Ability to adapt instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners with varying English proficiency levels.
  • High school diploma or equivalent (some positions may require a bachelor's degree or TESOL certification).

Preferred:

  • Bachelor's degree in Education, TESOL, Linguistics, or related field.
  • Experience teaching or tutoring ELL/ESL students, preferably in adult education settings.
  • TESOL/TEFL certification or adult education credential.
  • Bilingual or multilingual skills.
  • Prior experience working with refugee or immigrant populations.

At LSI, competitive compensation goes far beyond an hourly rate. For eligible employees, LSI pays for a portion of employee health premiums, offers a monthly wellness discount on health insurance premiums, and contributes to your health savings account each pay check. LSI will reimburse you for mileage, offer a 401k match contribution, and provide ongoing professional development training. In addition LSI offers a generous paid time off package. As a non-profit employer many employees also can qualify for student loan forgiveness programs.

It's their life. It's your career.

Make a difference in both at LSI!


This position requires a valid driver's license, auto insurance, a good driving record and the ability to pass an extensive background check including checks of the Dependent Adult and Child Abuse registries, Sex Offender registry and a criminal history check.