FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

SUMMARY:

American Councils for International Education is seeking an Academic Director (AD) for the Russian Overseas Flagship (ROF) Capstone Program, hosted by al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The Academic Director has primary responsibility for the quality of instruction, curriculum oversight, and faculty support, working closely with both U.S.-based and in-country program staff to ensure successful student outcomes and compliance with Flagship Program requirements.

This position is based in Washington, DC, with one in-country visit during the academic year. The AD reports to the ROF Senior Program Manager.

EMPLOYMENT DATE: June 2025 to May 2026.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide academic oversight of the ROF curriculum, ensuring its alignment with Flagship standards and benchmarks;
• Monitor student progress and performance, responding to academic difficulties in coordination with instructional staff
• Offer feedback and support to onsite faculty, including through direct observation and on-line conferencing;
• Maintain close coordination with the onsite Academic Director and Academic Coordinator to ensure program and curricular standards;
• Collaborate with KazNU and American Councils staff to ensure quality instruction and address general curricular challenges
• Maintain regular communication with the Resident Director, Assistant Resident Director, the Articulation Coordinator, and Senior Program Manager regarding student academic development;
• Conduct one site visit to Almaty to observe classes, meet with faculty and students, and review the program;
• Review weekly Language Utilization Reports (LURs) submitted by students, offering guidance on communication strategies and individualized learning goals;
• Participate in weekly meetings with the Senior Program Manager and relevant staff;
• Conduct one-on-one virtual intake interviews in summer with upcoming participants;
• Present program updates at quarterly meetings with program funders and domestic Flagship directors and coordinators

• Advanced degree in Russian, language pedagogy, second language acquisition, or a related field;
• Demonstrated expertise in curriculum development, instructional design, or faculty mentoring in a language-learning context;
• Significant experience with language immersion programs or overseas language instruction;
• Near-native Russian; knowledge of Kazakh is highly desirable;
• Familiarity with The Language Flagship or federally funded overseas programs preferred;
• Strong communication and organizational skills

BENEFITS

This position is not eligible for healthcare benefits.

American Councils is committed to providing employment opportunities for all individuals, in accordance with current federal regulations. Our focus is on ensuring that all individuals have equal access to employment and advancement opportunities based on merit. American Councils’ commitment to employment opportunity is driven by federal requirements, including Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act (supporting individuals with disabilities) and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) (protecting covered veterans). We also ensure our employment practices comply with all applicable regulations, including E-Verify requirements for work eligibility. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace where all individuals have the opportunity to succeed and grow, in full compliance with federal law.

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