Teaching Assistant – ESL & Digital Literacy

Menlo Park, CA
Part Time
Entry Level

About JobTrain

JobTrain is a nonprofit organization on the move.  We are delivering best in class outcomes, increasing our reach by expanding regionally, and we have committed to an ambitious new expanded mission to help our community to advance beyond the initial job placement, providing career advancement programming to help them achieve “full economic mobility.”

Born out of the civil rights movement in 1965, we now serve those in need of job training or other services that will advance their economic mobility at one of our Bay Area career or training centers.  We create an environment and workspace where our staff reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, fostering a safe and welcoming place for our clients.  We deliver on some of the best outcomes in the workforce development field, with a vision to provide our clients with the long-term support they need to achieve full economic mobility. 

We are growing, and we need your help!
 

Overview 

We are seeking a dedicated and student-centered Teaching Assistant to support our English as a Second Language (ESL) and Digital Literacy program. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with adult learners, values cultural diversity, and is passionate about helping individuals build confidence in both language and technology skills. The Teaching Assistant will work closely with the lead instructor to create an engaging, supportive, and inclusive learning environment. 

Key Responsibilities 

Classroom Support 

  • Assist the lead instructor in delivering ESL and digital literacy lessons, activities, and demonstrations. 

  • Provide one-on-one or small-group support to learners who need additional help with language comprehension, reading, writing, speaking, or basic computer skills. 

  • Help facilitate classroom discussions, practice activities, and hands-on digital exercises. 

Technology & Digital Skills Assistance 

  • Support learners in navigating essential digital tools such as email, word processing, online forms, and web browsing. (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Google Workspace) 

  • Troubleshoot basic technical issues that arise during class (e.g., logging in, using a mouse/keyboard, accessing online platforms, Zoom breakout rooms). 

  • Guide students through digital learning platforms and online assignments. 

Classroom Operations 

  • Prepare instructional materials, handouts, and digital resources as directed by the instructor. 

  • Assist with classroom setup & organization.  

  • Track attendance and help maintain accurate student records when needed. 

Learner Engagement 

  • Encourage a welcoming, patient, and culturally responsive classroom atmosphere. 

  • Provide positive reinforcement and help build learners’ confidence in both language and technology. 

  • Support learners with varying English proficiency levels and digital skill backgrounds. 

Program Collaboration 

  • Communicate regularly with the lead instructor about student progress, challenges, and classroom needs. 

  • Participate in team meetings, training sessions, or professional development opportunities as required. 

  • Contribute ideas to improve instruction, materials, and learner engagement. 
     

Qualifications 

Required 

  • Strong communication skills and the ability to explain concepts clearly and patiently. 

  • Comfort working with adults from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. 

  • Basic proficiency with computers, common software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Google equivalents required)and online tools.  

  • Ability to work collaboratively with instructors and staff. 

  • Reliability, professionalism, and a supportive attitude. 

Preferred 

  • Experience in ESL instruction, tutoring, adult education, or community-based learning environments. 

  • Familiarity with digital literacy instruction or assisting learners with technology. 

  • Multilingual skills (especially languages commonly spoken by local immigrant communities). 

  • Experience working in nonprofit, community college, or workforce development settings. 

Work Environment & Schedule 

  • Part-time position (10 to 15 hours per week): schedule may include daytime or evening classes depending on program needs. 

  • Hybrid role (unless otherwise specified), working directly with learners in a classroom or virtual computer lab setting. 

  • Training and ongoing support provided. 

Why Join Us 

  • Make a meaningful impact in the lives of adult learners building new skills and opportunities. 

  • Work in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. 

  • Gain hands-on experience in adult education, ESL instruction, and digital literacy training.

Compensation and Benefits

JobTrain offers a competitive pay and benefits package including sick pay, matching 401k, EAP (employee assistance).

The anticipated hiring range is $25.00

Additional Information

We want applicants who are interested in JobTrain’s mission, and we encourage you to attach a cover letter to explain why you are interested in JobTrain and how your experience matches with our needs.

At JobTrain, we take the interview process very seriously. If you are selected to move through the process you should expect a couple of telephone screen calls and one or two Zoom / on-site interviews as part of the interview process.

JobTrain is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Additionally, JobTrain does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, ethnic background, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, physical or mental disability or national origin.

Also, please note:

  • Our focus is on local candidates, we do not offer relocation benefits.
  • Successful candidates must have legal residency and work eligibility in the United States (per INS Form I-9 instructions).
  • JobTrain will require the successful candidate to undergo a background check.
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