Language Testing Specialist

The Language Testing Specialist plays a critical role in developing, reviewing, and revising test items for WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Screener, large-scale English language proficiency assessments for multilingual learners in grades 1-12.

This position involves development of test items (linguistic content, graphics descriptions, scripts) that align to the WIDA English Language Development Standards Framework; implementing stakeholder feedback on the items; conducting qualitative analyses of student responses to items; conducting internal reviews, proofing, and mock administrations of test materials; selecting training responses for use in scoring; and quality control checks of test items prior to delivery and live administration.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

- Research and write test items aligned to item specifications and revise based on feedback from test development content managers

- Evaluate, review, and revise test materials and documents, including providing feedback to both external consultants and fellow team members on test item development

- Write and refine graphics descriptions to support student comprehension of test items

- Evaluate and track changes to graphics for content accuracy and grade-level appropriateness

- Prepare materials for internal and external reviews of test materials

- Coordinate item development tasks of external consultants (theme generators, item writers, standards experts, etc.) to ensure timely delivery of test items

- Incorporate item feedback from project managers, clients, and other subject matter experts (standards experts, bias/sensitivity & content reviewers, etc.) at multiple stages of development

- Analyze data from small scale pilot activities with new items; use teacher and student feedback to make revisions

- Analyze and interpret field test data to inform revisions to items or new item development

- Communicate and collaborate within and across teams throughout the test development process

- Adhere to quality control procedures for print and computer-delivered items

- Prepare and maintain files and records (summary reports, electronic notes, spreadsheets, etc.)

- Write and revise test item specifications

• Maintain test item database

- Prepare training samples, annotations, and scoring notes for raters of speaking and writing responses

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

A Language Testing Specialist must have:

- A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, in a relevant field, with at least two years of relevant experience; OR

- A Master’s degree from an accredited college or university, in a relevant field.

The ideal candidate for this role has:

- Experience working with K-12 English learners (ELs) in U.S. school contexts, particularly in grades K-5.

- Experience teaching English to speakers of other languages (e.g., ESL, ESOL, ELD).

- Experience developing multiple choice and constructed response test items for K-12 students.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

A Language Testing Specialist must be able to:

- Apply their understanding of English language development and K-12 education standards and practices to the development of language proficiency test items and tasks

- Work independently with minimal support/supervision

- Prioritize tasks appropriately, meet deadlines, and work well within a collaborative team

- Attend closely to details without losing sight of the bigger picture

- Demonstrate flexibility in responding to feedback and evolving project priorities

The ideal candidate for this role has:

- Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills in English

- Excellent organization, planning, and time management skills

- Strong oral and interpersonal communication skills

- Proficiency in a language other than English

- Proficiency with Adobe InDesign and Microsoft Office

Travel Requirements

- This position may require occasional travel (1-2 times per year).

COMPENSATION:

Minimum Salary: $61,285.00; Benefits eligible
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