ASL Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

asl instructor job description

In the world of education, the demand for skilled American Sign Language (ASL) instructors is growing.

As communication and inclusivity are increasingly valued, the call for proficient educators who can teach, inspire, and contribute to the world of sign language education grows louder.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an ASL instructor?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker keen to understand the intricacies of this role,
  • A hiring manager trying to outline the perfect candidate,
  • Or simply fascinated by the realm of ASL teaching,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made ASL instructor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

ASL Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

American Sign Language (ASL) Instructors teach students how to communicate effectively using sign language.

They utilize a range of teaching methods and materials to ensure students understand the intricacies of ASL, including its grammar, syntax and cultural nuances.

ASL Instructors have the following duties and responsibilities:

  • Plan, prepare and deliver instructional activities that facilitate active learning in ASL
  • Develop a curriculum that takes into account the different needs and abilities of students
  • Assess the language skills and progress of students
  • Introduce students to deaf culture and the history of ASL
  • Teach students proper sign language etiquette and techniques
  • Use multimedia instructional tools and methods to enhance the learning experience
  • Organize and facilitate ASL-related activities and events
  • Keep parents and guardians informed of student progress and any changes to curriculum or teaching methods
  • Stay up-to-date with developments in sign language interpretation and deaf culture
  • Guide and mentor students who are interested in pursuing careers related to sign language interpretation

 

ASL Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated ASL (American Sign Language) Instructor to teach students in a range of different settings.

The successful candidate will help students understand ASL and broaden their knowledge of deaf culture.

The ASL Instructor responsibilities will include creating lesson plans, teaching students to communicate fluently in ASL, and evaluating student performance.

Our ideal candidate has a solid understanding of the ASL curriculum and possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

 

Responsibilities

  • Teaching ASL to students of various age groups and skill levels
  • Developing and implementing a curriculum that meets learning objectives
  • Preparing classroom activities and homework assignments
  • Evaluating student progress and providing feedback
  • Creating an inclusive learning environment for all students
  • Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of deaf culture and ASL
  • Participating in professional development opportunities

 

Qualifications

  • Proven work experience as an ASL Instructor
  • Fluency in American Sign Language
  • Strong understanding of deaf culture and history
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to create and implement effective lesson plans
  • Experience working with students of different age groups
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Linguistics, or related field
  • Certification from the American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA) is a plus

 

Benefits

  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Continuing education assistance
  • Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: ASL Instructor
  • Work Environment: Classroom setting. Some evening or weekend hours may be required depending on course schedules.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Head or Program Director.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
  • Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
  • Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, certification details, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an ASL Instructor Do?

An ASL (American Sign Language) Instructor primarily works in educational settings such as schools, colleges, and language learning centers.

They may also offer private lessons or work for organizations that serve the deaf community.

ASL Instructors are responsible for teaching students how to communicate using American Sign Language.

They design lesson plans, conduct classes, and assess students’ progress.

They teach the grammatical rules of ASL, as well as the cultural aspects associated with the language.

They utilize a variety of instructional methods to cater to different learning styles, including visual aids, interactive activities, and group projects.

They also use technology to enhance learning, such as video clips showing sign language in use.

ASL Instructors also play a key role in promoting awareness and understanding of the deaf community and its culture.

They educate students about deaf culture, its history, and the issues faced by the deaf and hard of hearing individuals in society.

Moreover, they may also work with students who are deaf or hard of hearing, helping them improve their sign language skills, and assisting them in their overall communication skills.

 

ASL Instructor Qualifications and Skills

An ASL Instructor should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that make them effective in teaching American Sign Language, including:

  • Fluency in American Sign Language: The ability to communicate fluently in ASL is a fundamental requirement for this role.
  • Teaching skills: Ability to develop lesson plans, prepare teaching materials, and use a variety of teaching strategies to help students learn ASL.
  • Communication skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills for explaining complex concepts in a way that students can understand.
  • Interpersonal skills: Capability to build strong relationships with students, understanding their learning needs and adapting teaching methods accordingly.
  • Patience and empathy: Ability to understand the challenges students may face in learning a new language, and patience to help them overcome these challenges.
  • Cultural sensitivity: Understanding and respect for Deaf culture, and the ability to teach students about it.
  • Educational background: A degree in Deaf studies, linguistics, or a related field, or a certification in ASL teaching may be required.
  • Technical skills: Proficiency in using educational technology tools and platforms to facilitate remote learning, if necessary.

 

ASL Instructor Experience Requirements

Prospective ASL instructors often begin their journey with a Bachelor’s degree in deaf studies, sign language, or a related field, where they gain a comprehensive understanding of the language and deaf culture.

Most entry-level ASL Instructor roles require at least 1-2 years of experience teaching or tutoring ASL, often gained through internships, volunteering, or part-time teaching positions.

This allows potential instructors to familiarize themselves with lesson planning and classroom management in a practical setting.

Instructors with 3-5 years of experience usually have developed their skills and teaching methodologies in roles such as ASL Tutor, Teaching Assistant, or even as an ASL Instructor in smaller settings.

Those with more than 5 years of experience likely have a strong foundation in curriculum development and classroom instruction.

They may have specialized in a particular area of ASL education, such as teaching children or adults, or deaf education.

These seasoned professionals are typically ready for more advanced roles such as a Senior ASL Instructor or Department Head.

Many institutions also require ASL Instructors to have specific certification, such as the American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA) certification.

This certification validates the Instructor’s expertise and commitment to the profession, and often requires a significant amount of practical teaching experience.

 

ASL Instructor Education and Training Requirements

An ASL (American Sign Language) Instructor typically has a bachelor’s degree in American Sign Language, Deaf Studies, or a related field such as education or linguistics.

In addition to fluency in American Sign Language, they should possess a comprehensive understanding of Deaf culture and history, as this is often incorporated into the curriculum.

A master’s degree in Deaf Studies, Linguistics, or Education can be beneficial for ASL Instructors who wish to advance in their careers or teach at a university level.

Many states require ASL Instructors to have a teaching certification specifically in American Sign Language.

Certification can be obtained through programs accredited by the American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA).

On top of formal education and certification, ASL Instructors should have excellent communication skills, both in ASL and English, and the ability to adapt teaching methods to accommodate students’ varying learning styles and abilities.

Continued education and professional development are encouraged, as the field of sign language instruction continues to evolve.

This can be done through workshops, seminars, or additional coursework.

 

ASL Instructor Salary Expectations

An ASL (American Sign Language) Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $46,930 (USD) per year.

This salary may fluctuate based on factors such as years of teaching experience, certifications, the institution where they are employed, and the geographical location.

 

ASL Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does an ASL Instructor need?

ASL Instructors need to have fluency in American Sign Language and deep understanding of Deaf culture.

They need strong communication skills, both in sign language and spoken/written English.

Good ASL Instructors are patient, empathetic, and have the ability to translate complex language concepts into easy-to-understand lessons.

An ASL Instructor also needs to have strong classroom management skills and be able to work with students of different ages, backgrounds, and learning styles.

 

Do ASL Instructors need a degree?

ASL Instructors typically hold a bachelor’s degree in Deaf Education, Sign Language Interpretation, or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or a specific teaching certification.

However, practical experience in the field of sign language education is often highly valued.

 

What should you look for in an ASL Instructor resume?

An ASL Instructor’s resume should showcase their fluency in American Sign Language and their experience in teaching, ideally with a focus on ASL instruction.

Any certifications related to ASL or Deaf Education should be highlighted.

Experience working with the Deaf community or individuals with hearing impairments can be a strong asset.

Also, look for examples of flexibility, creativity, and adaptability in their teaching methods.

 

What qualities make a good ASL Instructor?

A good ASL Instructor is passionate about language education and the Deaf community.

They should demonstrate patience, empathy, and creativity in their teaching methods.

Additionally, they should be able to adapt their teaching style to suit different learning abilities and styles.

Strong communication skills, both in ASL and English, are a must.

They should also be committed to continuous learning to stay updated with new teaching methods, technologies, and developments in ASL and Deaf culture.

 

Is it difficult to hire an ASL Instructor?

Hiring an ASL Instructor can be challenging due to the specific skills and experience required for the role.

It requires someone who is not only fluent in ASL, but also has the teaching skills and cultural sensitivity to work effectively with students and potentially the Deaf community.

Therefore, recruitment may take longer than for more general teaching roles.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the true essence of being an ASL instructor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about teaching signs.

It’s about building bridges of communication, one sign at a time.

With our comprehensive ASL instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to forge ahead.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every sign taught is a step towards a more inclusive world.

Let’s build that world. Together.

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