Volunteer Literacy Tutor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description

Reports To: Community Impact Manager

Status: Part-time, Non-exempt

Dates: Academic School Year & Summer Program

About United Way of Santa Barbara County:

Since 1923, United Way of Santa Barbara County has been a key leader in local efforts to empower children, families, and communities through its own unique collaborative programs and initiatives, partnership convening efforts, volunteer development, and funding. United Way's mission is to enrich the lives of children and families and build resilient communities by leading local programs and partnerships that improve academic achievement, financial security, and community resiliency. To learn more, please visit unitedwaysb.org

Position Overview

United Learning Center Tutors provide high-quality, evidence-based literacy instruction designed to accelerate student reading achievement. This role requires a solid foundation in literacy development and a strong commitment to supporting diverse learners. Tutors administer diagnostic assessments to create individualized tutoring plans using the Orton Gillingham approach. Through structured, supportive, and student-centered sessions, tutors build learner confidence, promote engagement, and contribute directly to measurable literacy gains, as demonstrated through post-assessments and ongoing progress monitoring.

Responsibilities

Instructional Delivery

• Provide small-group literacy tutoring sessions using the evidence-based Orton-Gillingham approach-a structured, sequential, and multi-sensory method for teaching literacy.
• Align all lessons with individualized student learning plans to ensure targeted skill development.
• Incorporate approved supplemental materials as appropriate to reinforce and enhance Orton-Gillingham-based instruction.

Learning Environment

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where all students feel safe, encouraged, and engaged.
• Uphold all safety guidelines and program protocols to ensure a structured and nurturing learning space.

Lesson Planning

• Develop, adapt, and implement weekly lesson plans that reflect each student's learning objectives and needs.

Data-Driven Instruction

• Administer and analyze assessments to guide instructional strategies and ensure they remain responsive to student progress.
• Monitor academic growth and make timely, data-informed recommendations for instructional adjustments.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date student records, including attendance, progress notes, and assessment outcomes.

Family Engagement & Reporting

• Prepare and submit comprehensive student progress reports to United Way within required timelines.
• Participate in meetings with families to share updates, celebrate progress, and plan for continued academic growth.

Program Support

• Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the program, team, and participants.

Professional Conduct and Staff Participation

• Model professionalism and integrity in all interactions with students, families, staff, volunteers, and community stakeholders. 
• Attend and actively participate in all required staff trainings, meetings, and professional development sessions. 

Requirements

Education and Experience

• Associate or bachelor's degree preferred; coursework in education, child development, or a related field is desirable.
• At least 2 years of experience working with children in structured settings such as classrooms, afterschool programs, or camps.
• Proficiency in the language of instruction, strong reading and writing abilities, and effective communication skills.
• Knowledge of phonics and phonological awareness, the ability to assess and analyze literacy skills, familiarity with evidence-based instructional strategies.
• Adaptability to diverse learners, culturally responsive teaching practices, and a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. 
• Certification in Orton-Gillingham or similar literacy instruction methods preferred.
• Strong background in youth development and classroom management.
• Ability to engage effectively with children and families from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Valid driver's license preferred.
• Technologically proficient and comfortable using learning platforms and data tools. 
• Bilingual in English and Spanish strongly preferred.
• First Aid, CPR, and Mandated Reporter certifications required prior to the program start date.
• Negative TB test within the past four years, in compliance with Education Code 49406.
• Must successfully complete Live Scan fingerprinting, DOJ background check, and Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) clearance per Education Code 45125.01.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

United Way of Santa Barbara County provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.