Part-time Learning Network Lead - Education in Crisis and Conflict Network

Job Description

The Leading through Learning Global Platform (LTLGP) project in the EDC International Development Division has an opening for a Learning Network Leader (International Technical Advisor II) of the Education in Crisis and Conflict Network, reporting to the Learning Network Development Director. The Learning Network Leader may be based out of one of EDC’s offices in Waltham, MA, Washington, D.C., New York, NY, or Chicago, IL, and is open to telecommuters.

The Leading through Learning Global Platform (LTLGP) is designed to produce high-quality technical knowledge products that help to address the USAID Center for Education’s learning agendas in the areas of Foundational Skills, Higher Education, and Education in Crisis and Conflict. It does so through the establishment and expansion of a global education learning system for USAID and its partners. In this way, LTLGP not only enhances education program quality; it further positions USAID as a thought leader in knowledge management for development.

To accomplish these goals, LTLGP is structured as a system of three global education learning networks: Education in Crisis and Conflict Network (ECCN), Global Reading Network (GRN), and Higher Education Learning Network (HELN). Learning Networks’ reach is broadened and deepened through chapters supported by two regional teams, one in Latin American and the Caribbean and one in Africa.

The ECCN Learning Network Leader (LNL), in collaboration with the USAID counterpart based in USAID’s Education in Crisis and Conflict technical team, will provide facilitation and technical leadership of the Education in Crisis and Conflict Learning Network. In this role s/he will guide the ECCN Steering Group to set topical priorities and a work plan for the Learning Network; oversee ECCN’s annual portfolio of activities related to knowledge products, professional development and member engagement and collaboration; work with LTLGP’s regional, communications and data teams to grow and understand ECCN membership; represent ECCN at external forums; and, in general, nurture ECCN toward a deep, collaborative, and diverse learning space for practitioners working in the education in crisis and conflict space.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The person in this position is expected to collaboratively innovate and solve problems, to develop and maintain positive relationships with USAID counterparts, Steering Group Members, and the project team. The job requires adherence to EDC policies & procedures.

LNL ECCN Functions (75% time):

• Lead facilitation and meaningful engagement of the Steering Group to establish topical priorities and ideas for membership recruitment and engagement. Manage recruitment and rotation of Steering Group members.
• Manage, coordinate and facilitate a portfolio of Learning Network activities, such as webinars, webcasts, consultations, virtual and in-person training workshops, and knowledge product creation as per the project activity cycle.
• Oversee the technical aspects of content creation for ECCN communication products, including quarterly newsletters, LinkedIn posts, ad hoc emails, replication of other announcements, and linkages with the other Networks and Hubs.
• Contribute proactively to a wide range of working groups and functional project teams towards the delivery of timely and quality events and knowledge products;
• Support the Regional Coordinators in supporting the development and functioning of regional Learning Network chapters (recruiting and communicating with members, growing membership, connecting with relevant local/regional stakeholder groups);
• Support the Regional Coordinators and ECCN Regional chapters in identifying learning needs and knowledge and crafting a work plan;
• Liaise with other multi-stakeholder groups in the ECCN global community to assure coordination, learning and sharing with these groups;
• Represent the Network and the Project at internal and external fora such as CIES;
• Support colleagues in the wider Network and Hub Development team to create a proactive culture towards equitable and inclusive participation of all.

The role requires educational achievement and a strategic mind set; demonstrated technical expertise in ECCN; writing skills, creativity, and flexibility; the ability to work independently and effectively; and strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Specific requirements:

Education:

• Master’s degree, or equivalent, with 7 – 10 years related experience, including technical experience with USAID-funded projects

Skills & Experience:

• Knowledge of promising practices and current themes in education in conflict and crisis contexts;
• Knowledge of and affiliation with education-related networks and stakeholders;
• Experience in field-based education programming is required;
• Passion for Learning Networks and bringing people together to co-create and share knowledge;
• Experience managing an external advisory committee, board or other group of volunteers;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills;
• Strong project management skills, including some experience managing the production of deliverables in a matrixed team environment

Preferred Education & Experience:

• PhD with 5–7 years related experience (as above)
• Familiarity with USAID Center for Education
• Professional proficiency in English and at least one other language desired. French, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, or local languages of EDC implementing contexts preferred.

About the Organization

EDC is one of the world’s leading nonprofit research and development firms. EDC designs, implements, and evaluates programs to improve education, health, and economic opportunity worldwide. Collaborating with both public and private partners, we strive for a world where all people are empowered to live healthy, productive lives. 

EDC’s approach to equity, diversity, and inclusion is grounded in EDC’s commitment to respect the dignity of each individual. EDC has a commitment to promoting equity and access to high quality education and health services that contribute to thriving communities where people from diverse backgrounds learn, live, and work together. EDC expresses its commitment to increasing equity through its strategies, services and products, which contribute to building capacity and transforming lives.  

EDC is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to enhancing the diversity of its workforce and ensuring an equitable and highly inclusive work environment. EDC is a smoke-free workplace, and offers a supportive work environment, competitive salary, and excellent benefits. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Research shows that individuals from historically marginalized groups find themselves meeting many of the criteria of a job posting, yet doubting if they should apply. At EDC, we value and strive for a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. Equity and excellence are inseparable. If you meet some of the preferred requirements but not all of them, and feel aligned with our vision and mission, we encourage you to apply.

Total Rewards:

EDC offers the following comprehensive benefits package for all eligible employees:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 12 paid holidays
• Generous vacation benefits for full- and part-time employees
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Tuition and transportation reimbursement
• Robust retirement plan with TIAA/CREF (Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association/College Retirement Equities Fund)
• Paid sick time and up to 16 hours of personal time annually
• Parental leave
• Employee assistance program

This position offers an anticipated annual, full-time equivalent salary range of approximately $87,000 to $110,000. Salary offers are made based on market analysis and internal equity.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access the EDC job opportunities website as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by e-mailing Liz Christensen or by calling her at 800-225-4276 or 617-618-2329.