Postsecondary ASL Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of education, the role of Postsecondary ASL (American Sign Language) Instructors is becoming increasingly critical.

As the push for inclusivity and diversity grows, the demand for skilled educators who can teach, support, and shape the field of ASL education continues to rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Postsecondary ASL Instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the realm of ASL instruction,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Postsecondary ASL Instructor job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Postsecondary ASL Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Postsecondary ASL (American Sign Language) Instructors are responsible for teaching students the language and culture of the American Deaf community.

Their role involves not only imparting language skills but also fostering understanding and respect for Deaf culture.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Preparing lesson plans and instructional materials for ASL courses
• Teaching students to understand and communicate in ASL
• Evaluating students’ progress and providing constructive feedback
• Organizing and conducting lectures, discussions, and demonstrations in ASL
• Staying updated on the latest research and developments in ASL pedagogy
• Facilitating understanding of Deaf culture and fostering respect for the Deaf community
• Advising students on academic and career goals
• Participating in department meetings and contributing to curriculum development
• Ensuring accessibility for Deaf and hard-of-hearing students in the classroom
• Maintaining records of student attendance, participation, and progress

 

Postsecondary ASL Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced and passionate Postsecondary ASL Instructor to join our educational team.

The ASL Instructor will be responsible for developing curriculum, teaching courses in American Sign Language (ASL), and mentoring students in their ASL skills development.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in ASL, is fluent in the language, and has experience teaching at the postsecondary level.

Experience working with the Deaf community is highly desirable.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement engaging lesson plans that cover all aspects of ASL.
• Conduct lectures and demonstrations in ASL and Deaf culture.
• Assess student performance and provide feedback and assistance to improve their ASL skills.
• Prepare students for real-world applications of ASL.
• Maintain accurate records of students’ progress and report these to the administration in a timely manner.
• Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in ASL instruction and Deaf culture.
• Participate in departmental and college activities and serve on committees.

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in ASL, Deaf Studies, or a related field is required.
• Experience teaching ASL at the postsecondary level.
• Fluency in American Sign Language.
• Knowledge of Deaf culture and the Deaf community.
• Strong classroom management skills.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey information to students in an clear, engaging manner.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Postsecondary ASL Instructor
• Work Environment: Classroom setting at a higher education institution. Some travel may be required for seminars, conferences, or professional development.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair or Dean of the College.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Postsecondary ASL Instructor Do?

A Postsecondary American Sign Language (ASL) Instructor typically works in higher education institutions such as community colleges, universities, and vocational schools.

They may also provide instruction in adult education programs or online learning platforms.

Their primary responsibility is to teach students the American Sign Language (ASL), the third most commonly used language in the United States.

They do this through a combination of lectures, discussions, and practical exercises to help students understand and become proficient in ASL.

Postsecondary ASL instructors also work to develop course syllabi, lesson plans, and instructional materials, ensuring that the curriculum aligns with educational standards.

They may incorporate the cultural aspects of the Deaf community into their teachings to give students a broader understanding of the language.

In addition to teaching, they are also responsible for grading student work, providing feedback, and tracking student progress.

They may also conduct academic research or write scholarly articles about ASL or Deaf culture.

ASL instructors often serve as a bridge between the Deaf community and hearing individuals, fostering a greater understanding and respect for Deaf culture and the use of sign language.

 

Postsecondary ASL Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Postsecondary ASL Instructor should have the qualifications and skills that correspond with the job description, such as:

• Proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) to effectively teach and communicate with students who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Teaching skills, including the ability to develop and implement lesson plans that cater to various learning styles and levels of proficiency
• Interpersonal skills to connect and engage with students, fostering an inclusive and positive learning environment
• Cultural competency to understand and respect the Deaf community and Deaf culture, and to infuse this understanding into the curriculum
• Communication skills to provide clear instructions, offer constructive feedback, and address student inquiries
• Patient and empathetic nature to support students who may struggle with learning a new language and to accommodate individual learning needs
• Organization and time management skills for balancing teaching, grading, curriculum development, and any administrative responsibilities
• Continuous learning mindset to keep abreast of the latest developments in ASL teaching methodologies, language evolutions, and advancements in Deaf culture studies

 

Postsecondary ASL Instructor Experience Requirements

Postsecondary American Sign Language (ASL) Instructors are generally required to have a significant amount of practical and theoretical experience in the field.

This can be gained through a degree program related to sign language, linguistics, or special education.

For entry-level positions, a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience in teaching or tutoring ASL is usually required.

This experience can often be acquired through student teaching assignments, internships, or part-time teaching positions while studying.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their teaching skills and have a deeper understanding of ASL and Deaf culture.

They may have also gained experience in course development and instructional design.

For those with over 5 years of teaching experience, they may be considered for more advanced roles, such as department chair or program director.

This level of experience often indicates a strong background in curriculum development, student assessment, and educational leadership.

In addition to teaching experience, ASL instructors often need to have a strong proficiency in ASL, typically evidenced by certification from organizations such as the American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA) or the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID).

Some positions may also require a state-specific teaching certification.

 

Postsecondary ASL Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Postsecondary American Sign Language (ASL) instructors typically require a master’s degree in ASL or Deaf studies, ASL education, linguistics, or a related field.

In these programs, individuals gain in-depth knowledge of American Sign Language, Deaf Culture, and teaching strategies.

This knowledge is essential for teaching ASL effectively in postsecondary settings.

Some universities might prefer candidates with a doctoral degree, especially for tenure-track positions.

Those with a Ph.D. in fields such as linguistics, education, or related fields are considered highly competitive.

In addition to formal education, practical experience in using ASL and interacting with the Deaf community is crucial.

This can be gained through internships, volunteer positions, or work experience.

Many institutions also require ASL instructors to have teaching experience, preferably at the postsecondary level.

This experience should demonstrate the ability to create and implement lesson plans, assess student progress, and adapt teaching methods to meet student needs.

ASL instructors may also choose to get certified by the American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA).

While not always required, ASLTA certification can demonstrate a commitment to professional standards and continuous learning, making candidates more attractive to employers.

Lastly, ASL instructors must have strong communication skills, patience, and cultural sensitivity to ensure that all students feel included and can learn effectively.

 

Postsecondary ASL Instructor Salary Expectations

A Postsecondary ASL (American Sign Language) Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $61,410 (USD) per year.

The actual income may fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience, educational qualifications, the institution of employment, and the geographical location.

 

Postsecondary ASL Instructor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications should a Postsecondary ASL Instructor have?

An ASL Instructor should have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in sign language education, deaf studies, or a related field.

Some institutions may prefer candidates with a master’s degree.

Additionally, they should have fluency in American Sign Language and prior teaching experience.

Certain certifications, like the American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA) certification, might also be required.

 

What skills are important for a Postsecondary ASL Instructor?

A Postsecondary ASL Instructor should be proficient in American Sign Language and have a comprehensive understanding of deaf culture.

They should also have excellent communication skills, both in ASL and English.

Instructors should be able to adapt teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles, and should have strong organizational skills to plan and manage lessons.

Patience and empathy are also essential qualities to help students overcome learning challenges.

 

What is the role of a Postsecondary ASL Instructor?

A Postsecondary ASL Instructor is responsible for teaching American Sign Language to students at a postsecondary level, which includes colleges, universities, and vocational schools.

They plan and deliver lessons, assess students’ progress, provide feedback, and help students develop their sign language skills.

They may also conduct research in their field and contribute to the development of ASL teaching materials and resources.

 

What should you look for in an ASL Instructor’s resume?

Look for a strong educational background in a related field and proficiency in ASL.

Prior teaching experience, especially at the postsecondary level, is crucial.

Certifications, such as ASLTA, are also significant.

Additionally, any experience or involvement in deaf culture, like participation in deaf community events, can be a plus.

Check for references that can attest to the candidate’s teaching abilities and proficiency in ASL.

 

How can a Postsecondary ASL Instructor stay updated in their field?

ASL Instructors can participate in professional development programs and attend workshops, seminars, or conferences related to sign language education.

Joining professional associations like the ASLTA can provide opportunities for networking and professional growth.

Staying informed about research and advancements in deaf studies and education technology can also help them incorporate new teaching methods and resources in their classes.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we unfolded the captivating reality of being a Postsecondary ASL Instructor.

Guess what?

It’s not just about signing words.

It’s about bridging the gap between the hearing and the deaf, one sign at a time.

With our comprehensive Postsecondary ASL Instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to make your next career move.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every sign contributes to a larger conversation.

Let’s foster this communication. Together.