Consulting Opportunity: Summer Portuguese-Speaking Resident Director

CONSULTANT/CONTRACTOR

Compensation for the duration of the assignment: $8,000.00

ANTICIPATED CONTRACT DATES

May - August 2027 (exact dates will vary by program specifics). Resident Director training dates will be announced separately.

 

Position SUMMARY

American Councils seeks a qualified individual to serve as a Portuguese-speaking Resident Director for a summer Portuguese language program approximately eight weeks in length. The language program offers intensive Portuguese language instruction and structured cultural enrichment experiences designed to promote rapid language gains in undergraduate and graduate students.

The Resident Director represents American Councils on the program overseas and serves as the primary liaison between the host institution, American Councils, and program participants. The Resident Director advises participants, facilitates medical care, and works with local and American Councils DC staff to troubleshoot issues.

The Resident Director must be available to program participants daily and maintain daily communication with American Councils DC staff. The Resident Director regularly observes classes at the host institution; meets regularly with teachers, administrators, and participants; and chaperones program-arranged events and activities focused on the immersion experience. Personal travel outside the program site or group excursions is not permitted.

The Resident Director oversees a small program budget and is responsible for proper documentation of program expenditures and timely completion of an expense report at the end of each month. The Resident Director is also required to submit a daily summary email and formal weekly report. Other reporting requirements may apply.

Prior to departure, the Resident Director will be required to complete a multi-day virtual Resident Director training. The Resident Director may be asked to travel to the program site in advance of the students’ arrival. The Resident Director reports to the DC-based Program Manager and staff. Completion of a successful background check is required. All offers are contingent upon the candidate’s ability to receive and maintain a visa to the host country where applicable.

 

Position Responsibilities

• Be responsible for and available to a group of American college and graduate students at all times during the program;
• Respond to participant emergencies 24/7, including assisting participants with securing medical care and navigating local clinics and hospitals;
• Advise program participants as needed on a variety of language-learning, cultural, adjustment and logistical aspects of the program, including on issues such as group dynamics and interpersonal relationships, among others;
• Report on program activities to program staff in Washington, DC, and/or staff in the host country;
• Provide support to students from a range of backgrounds, including those who have never traveled abroad before;
• Work closely with the host institution and local program staff daily;
• Observe language classes weekly;
• Assist the host institution in managing group travel and cultural programs;
• Maintain adherence to program rules and policies among participants, including a language policy;
• Manage a small budget of program funds and maintain detailed financial documentation, including monthly reports; 
• Collect and submit photographs and videos from students and local staff;
• Complete the Resident Director training in May;
• Work with housing staff, and host families as needed, which may include monitoring of participant host family experiences, conducting family visits, and assisting with conflict resolution; 
• Resolve other program-related issues as necessary; and
• Perform other program-related tasks as directed.

Qualifications

• Advanced written and oral language skills (minimum 2/2+ on DLPT scale, Advanced on ACTFL scale) in Portuguese;
• Study, work, or extensive travel experience in Brazil;
• Experience working in a position of authority with undergraduate or graduate students;
• Experience overseeing and guiding groups;
• Demonstrated skills in academic and personal counseling preferred; and
• Demonstrated skills in general financial accountability.

 

Additional Information about the Position

Position contingent upon funding and upon the approval of overseas travel for participants. Program location is subject to change prior to program start.

Applicants should provide a description of previous experience in Brazil in their cover letter. Resumes will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

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.