Materials Development Specialist

FHI 360 is a global development organization with a rigorous, evidence-based approach to human development. Our professional staff includes experts in health, nutrition, education, economic development, civil society, environment and research. FHI 360 operates from 60 offices with 4,400 staff in the U.S. and around the world. Our commitment to partnerships at every level and our multidisciplinary approach enable us to have a lasting impact on the individuals, communities and countries we serve–improving lives for millions. We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of Materials Development Specialist for a forthcoming USAID-funded early grade reading project in Bangladesh.

Project Description

The primary purpose of the Shekhar Jonno Pori “Read to Learn” activity is to provide technical assistance to the Government of Bangladesh and its sector-wide Fourth Primary Education Development Program (PEDP4), as well as to schools and teachers. The activity aligns with the USAID Education Strategy to improve the reading skills of students in primary grades. Technical assistance will take the form of training services, provision and dissemination of goods such as teaching and learning materials, national and sub-national assessment design and implementation. The activity will foster partnerships between schools and families to enhance opportunities for children to read outside of school and in the home.

Position Description

The Materials Development Specialist is responsible for providing technical oversight and leadership in materials revision, materials creation and capacity building for partner institutions in materials development. The Materials Development Specialist must assure alignment between the materials required, and other program elements such as relevant government policies and programs, detailed literacy structures and content, and the overall approach to teacher professional development.  Materials will be for teacher and student use, and may also include materials for community members. He or she monitors and provides ongoing technical and logistical support on material production, including uniformity of templates, pedagogical coherence and alignment with objectives, cultural and gender sensitivity of illustrations, graphic design, timeliness of production across all partners and consultants (such as illustrators or printers). The Materials Development Specialist is also responsible for overseeing ongoing review and revision of the materials throughout the life of the project.

Minimum Requirements

  • At least a Master’s degree in education, literacy, linguistics, or a related field.
  • At least 5 years of experience in the design and implementation of curriculum and materials development, targeting children in low-resource environments, and ensuring gender sensitivity and inclusiveness of children with special needs.  
  • Knowledge of the Bangladeshi literacy context and Ministry structures at the national and regional levels.
  • Knowledge of international best practices in reading and writing content and instructional practices
  • Experience with research, monitoring, and evaluation and the application of findings to improve reading and writing programs
  • Demonstrated management and leadership skills working on large and complex donor-funded programs, preferably with USAID
  • Experience reporting on large donor-funded programs, preferably with USAID contracts
  • Demonstrated ability to work with and gain the respect and confidence of country counterparts, staff, and clients
  • Ability to mentor, motivate and empower the performance of team members and counterparts
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Experience with InDesign desirable.
  • Proficiency in oral and written communication in English preferred.
  • Must be a fluent or native Bangla speaker.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work and are subject to modification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job.

We offer competitive compensation and an outstanding benefit package. Please visit FHI 360's Career Center at http://www.fhi360.org/careers for a list of all open positions. Interested and qualified candidates can apply through FHI 360 career at https://www.fhi360.org/careers or send the resume to APROProposal@fhi360.org

FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. FHI 360 is committed to providing equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or status as a veteran with respect to policies, programs, or activities.