[Hiring] Literacy Technical Assistance Specialist @WestEd Career

Role Description

WestEd is seeking an experienced technical assistance provider who is deeply committed to literacy education. The candidate will join a team that partners with states and districts to implement evidence-based literacy instruction and drive systemic improvements in learning outcomes.

• The successful candidate will bring expertise in K–5 literacy instruction, grounded in a strong understanding of the science of reading and its implications for classroom practice.
• Knowledge of the intersection of language and literacy, particularly as it relates to multilingual learners.
• Approach this work with curiosity, rigor, and a commitment to co-creating solutions with partners.
• This position may support work across a range of funding contexts, including federally funded technical assistance centers and state and district contracts.
• The Literacy Technical Assistance Specialist will lead projects focused on literacy improvement, educator effectiveness, and implementation of evidence-based literacy practices aligned with state and local priorities.
• The ideal candidate will have a successful track record working with state and/or local education agencies.
• Demonstrated ability to ask the right questions, generate and use evidence, and translate research into actionable guidance for educators and leaders.

Responsibilities

• Design and provide technical assistance to state and local education agency partners, focusing on PreK–5 literacy instruction and the needs of multilingual learners.
• Develop resources and tools in partnership with clients to advance their literacy goals and build local capacity.
• Provide expert consultation and strategic planning services for state and local education agencies.
• Design and manage technical assistance projects aimed at improving literacy outcomes for all students.
• Build and sustain authentic relationships with clients, partners, educators, and communities.
• Plan and facilitate professional learning events, workshops, and site visits that translate research into practice.
• Gather and analyze data to evaluate the impact of services and inform continuous improvement recommendations for clients.
• Represent WestEd at national and regional conferences.
• Contribute to proposal development for small- to mid-size projects.

Qualifications

• Deep expertise in K–5 literacy development and the science of reading as it applies to classroom instruction, coaching, professional learning, and state policy.
• Knowledge of the intersection of language and literacy, with demonstrated experience designing and delivering support for multilingual learners.
• Managing small to mid-size projects with attention to quality, budget, and team coordination.
• Communicating with clarity, empathy, and integrity.
• Building and sustaining relationships with clients, colleagues, partners, and funders.
• At least ten years of experience in technical assistance and/or roles working with district, regional, and/or state education agencies.

Other Skills, Abilities, and Experiences of Interest

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• High level of organizational and time management skills.
• Independence with monitoring calendar and collaborating virtually and in-person.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities under time-restricted conditions.
• Ability to run virtual meetings and presentations with large and small groups.

Education

• Master’s or Doctorate in education, literacy, curriculum and instruction, or a related field preferred.

Salary and Benefits

• The full salary range for this position is $106,000 to $165,000, with a typical hiring range of $106,000 to $132,500.
• 15% contribution toward retirement effective day 1 of employment and immediately 100% vested.
• Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Account option.
• All health/welfare benefits are effective the first of the month following the hire date.
• PTO: 19 days (increases to 21 days beginning the third year of employment), 12 paid holidays.
• Life Insurance: value of 3x gross salary, max of 500k.
• Opportunities for annual merit-based performance increases + annual incentives.
• Professional development opportunities & mentorship program.