Senior Reading 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: Senior Reading 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 Senior Reading Specialist (SRS) is responsible for technical leadership in assuring high quality literacy programming in Bangladesh.  He or she will collaborate closely with government counterparts to assure integration with current education activities. The post requires expertise in instruction, assessment, coaching, training and materials development and supervising technical personnel.  Working closely with the COP, DCOP and the Project’s technical staff, the SRS ensures effective planning, delivery and documentation of basic education interventions. This individual shall participate and engage in technical meetings and maintain positive relationships with officials, partners, and implementing partners.

Minimum Requirements: 

  • Advanced degree in education with a concentration in early grade reading, literacy, language acquisition or related field
  • At least ten years’ experience of which at least five is within a developing country context, with a focus on primary education sector work in childhood reading or literacy, and/or language acquisition.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with host government and other relevant partners in central and/or local government settings.
  • Proven expertise in mother tongue (L1), early grade reading instruction and assessment
  • Leadership skills, including ability to collaborate and to guide professional and support staff
  • Management experience including oversight and evaluation of staff performance and deliverables, and engagement with other areas of operation such as contracts and finance to assure high quality products and services
  • Experience working in Bangladesh or South Asia preferred
  • Significant experience required in, a) developing, organizing and conducting professional development workshops for literacy, b) design of lesson plans and other instructional materials, c) pupil materials development
  • A strong understanding of monitoring, evaluation and learning
  • Demonstrated experience scaling up activities of similar scope, in a context similar to Bangladesh
  • Strong writing and communication abilities are essential. This includes the comfort in the use of common software, such as MS Word and Excel.

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.