Homestay & Housing Coordinator - Language and Culture Facilitator (HHC-LCF)
U.S. PEACE CORPS MALAWI
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
FULL ANOUNCEMENT
Language and Cross Culture Facilitator (LCF)
Homestay and Housing Coordinator (HHC)
(LCF/HHC)
(Personal Services Contractor)
Background:
In 1961, the United States established the Peace Corps, an independent US Government Agency, to promote world peace and friendship through the service of American Volunteers abroad. The Peace Corps has three goals: To help the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women; To help promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served, and; To help promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.
At the invitation of the Government of Malawi, the first Peace Corps Volunteers arrived in 1963. Since then, more than 3,000 US Volunteers have served across the country. Peace Corps Volunteers partner with Malawian community members and organizations to meet the country’s most pressing development needs in three program sectors prioritized by Malawian governmental partners: Education and Health. Climate-related activities as well as HIV programming are integrated into all programs. Volunteers actively take part in the lives of the community members they serve, promoting a better understanding of Americans in Malawi and a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.
Under the limited supervision of the Training Manager (TM) and/or the Language and Cross Culture Coordinator (LCC), the LCF/HHC is assigned yearly as either an LCF or HHC.
LCF: The LCF is responsible for assisting the training staff in all phases of the successful implementation of Pre Service Training to ensure that trainees meet the established Language, Technical, and Cross-Culture criteria for service. Language and Cross-Culture Training is the primary responsibility of the LCF.
HHC: The HHC is responsible for the homestay component of the Peace Corps/Malawi Community Based Training experience. HHC coordinates with program, training, medical, security, and administrative staff to ensure a successful homestay experience for the trainees. Partnering with homestay families in a rural setting and ensuring they embrace Peace Corps philosophy is the primary responsibility of the HHC.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Language and Cross-Culture Facilitator (LCF)
The LCF is responsible for language and cross culture training for Peace Corps Trainees which is an essential component for Trainee success. The LCF reviews, leads, develops, plans, and ensures effective implementation of all language and cross culture related training events and activities included in PST. The LCF reviews and assesses the results of the language and cross culture training and uses this information to further develop an effective training program.
PREPARATION AND PRESENTATION OF TRAINING SESSIONS:
- Design and implement lesson plans based on acquisition of specific language competencies that trainees should achieve.
- Develop Lesson Plans using the Peace Corps' lesson plan format and incorporating language, cultural and technical language objectives.
- Submit lesson plans one week in advance for review by the Language and Cross-Culture Coordinator (LCC).
- Conduct lessons making appropriate changes based on feedback received and learning needs of the trainees.
- Maintain a record book containing all lesson plans. Submit this to the LCC for review during training and submit the final record book to the LCC at the end of training.
- Within each lesson, demonstrate a variety of teaching techniques.
- Make and effectively use visual and other teaching aids in class.
- Assign, evaluate, and revise homework.
- Show a willingness to be creative, trying new approaches regularly.
- Give trainees opportunities to practice new information/skills in class and home stay.
- Adapt lessons to meet the learning needs of trainees.
- Demonstrate an ability to explain all grammar and cross-culture questions asked by trainees
- Help in developing, gathering, and storing language and cross-culture resource materials; make suggestions to Coordinators as to the material needs of the two programs. All materials developed under this contract are the sole property of the United States Peace Corps.
LANGUAGE:
- Prepare and present structured language lessons as needed.
- Demonstrate consistent use of strategies for teaching students who are learning a second language.
- Help organize and oversee unstructured language activities such as independent study.
- Act as a tutor for any trainees who need help.
CROSS-CULTURE
- Under the guidance of the LCC, organize and facilitate cultural activities, including cultural discussions based on Culture Matters, community contact assignments, PACA 2.0, field trips, and so on.
- Develop trainees’ cross-culture skills by acting as a culture resource inside and outside the classroom.
- Integrate host families into cross-cultural training, by meeting with them to organize events in line with cross-culture competencies.
- During village stay, reside in the village with your trainees. Provide language, culture, and technical instruction as appropriate and assist PCTs with their community contact assignments.
MONITORING AND EVALUATION
- Conduct weekly tests with each assigned trainee.
- Assist the LCC in completing competency checklists for each trainee.
- Document each trainee's progress in short weekly reports which cover strengths and suggestions for improvement in both language and cross-culture.
- Give weekly feedback (in language and cross-culture) to trainees based on the above reports; these sessions need to last only approximately 10 minutes/trainee.
- Conduct on-going informal assessment of one's teaching, asking trainees what has worked well and what needs to be changed.
- Evaluate the success of a lesson, including these notes at the end of the lesson plan.
- Complete self-assessment forms and receive feedback on one's performance at scheduled points during training.
- Meet with the LCC and other language staff as planned to evaluate trainees' progress and make recommendations for appropriate acquisition, while maintaining professional confidentiality.
Homestay & Housing Coordinator (HHC)
The HHC reviews, leads, develops, plans, and ensures effective implementation of all homestay related training events and activities included in PST. During PST they visits homestay families to observe the family and trainee interactions, organizes and conducts regular meetings to provide timely and appropriate feedback to both. The HHC reviews and assesses the results of the homestay experiences and uses this information to further develop an effective homestay program.
Pre-Service Training (PST) preparation
- If requested, assists with the identification and development of a PST site, meeting with local officials and community members to introduce Peace Corps/Malawi and explain Peace Corps’ intentions and expectations related to Community Based Training (CBT).
- Responsible for identification of appropriate homestay families to host PCTs according to Peace Corps/Malawi safety and security and medical requirements.
- Assists TM to identify, plan, budget, obtain, and deliver any CBT training site needs in a timely manner, including equipping and improving a “Hub” training venue.
- Assesses conditions of all housing, including PCT homestay homes and oversees any repairs or improvements required to meet the approved safety & security and medical standards.
- Recommends any homestay equipment or supply needs that may be required.
- Coordinates with the TM to ensure that all training activities, including field experiences, trips, and activities with homestay families are conducted in a safe and secure environment and under safe conditions.
- Participates in the recruitment of local labor for training site improvement or to support training activities.
- Sets up a system for family provisions and/or compensation in collaboration with Peace Corps/Malawi’s Administrative Unit.
- Prepares homestay family guidelines (responsibilities, housing, food, hygiene, safety and security, etc.); explains and executes written agreements with appropriate representative of each host family and conducts any related training.
- Designs, plans and coordinates training activities to be implemented in homestay families with other staff/departments to ensure an integrated training approach.
- Monitors and evaluates the homestay family program and makes recommendations for improvements to the training team.
- Attends and participates in all pre-PST planning meetings and activities, including Training Design and Evaluation (TDE) process.
- Participates with training unit in the planning and facilitation of sessions in Training of Trainers (TOT) Workshops.
- Design a learning curriculum for homestay program.
- Assists in preparation and presentation of Pre-Service Training (PST) modules to promote effective community entry and integration in Malawi.
- Assists in preparation and presentation of Volunteer and counterpart trainings throughout the Volunteer training continuum.
Training
- In collaboration with the other trainers, introduces the homestay program and the PCT assessment criteria to PCTs at the beginning of PST.
- Collaborates with the training staff to assign PCTs to families.
- Notifies TM and coordinates with training staff and Safety and Security Manager (SSM) to respond appropriately to any safety or security related issues and/or incidents affecting or involving PCTs.
- Monitors homestay family activities and experiences, and works with TM and PCTs, and families to manage and/or resolve issues or concerns that arise.
- Assists all training staff in the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of any PST activities (e.g. logistical, administrative, technical, personal health and safety, etc.) as requested by the TM or as needed by colleagues.
- Attends and/or participates in all PST “core” sessions, as available.
- Facilitates weekly debriefings and topic discussions with host families, and PCTs; providing timely feedback and guidance, as required.
- Under the guidance of the TM, upholds, explains, clarifies, and exemplifies Peace Corps policies and procedures that serve as guidance for PCTs and PCVs during their Peace Corps service.
- Provides individualized feedback to PCTs regarding behavior, integration progress, and/or adjustment when necessary and appropriate.
- Meets regularly with the TM to evaluate PCT progress and homestay program, in general conducts periodic visits to homestay families to ensure that PCT needs are responded to.
- Actively participates in all staff meetings by making constructive comments, sharing observations, and contributing recommendations for training improvements, including staff morale and on-going staff development.
- Provides documentation which supports decisions to recommend or not recommend each PCT to become a PCV.
- Assists training staff to identify and recruit guest speakers to facilitate specific sessions and supervises guest speakers in preparing participatory presentations and activities for adults.
- Submits to the TM periodic-weekly reports on homestay program progress and concerns with accompanying recommendations.
- Participate in all performance reviews and final appraisals with the TM providing self-assessments and making changes where and when needed.
- Writes and submits a soft copy final training report, assessing the homestay program results with recommendations for improvements.
- Attends a one-day final PST review/debriefing in the PC office to present PC staff with evaluation findings and any recommendations for future training.
- Works as a member of the training unit to plan, implement, and evaluate all PST training events.
LCF/HHC OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES
- Actively participate in the LTOT & GTOT workshops prior to PST.
- Attend all training activities as directed by the LCC and TM.
- Participate actively in all training activities, sharing experiences, contributing comments, and interacting with trainees in a visible, active manner.
- Assist with the integration of language and technical training and other activities outside the scope of the Language and Cross-Culture programs as needed.
- Demonstrate a willingness to supplement areas of knowledge and expertise in which you are weak or lacking (for example, asking LCC or other LCFs for help with grammar, seeking advice on a lesson plan, etc.).
- Design activities which allow trainees the opportunity to apply new information/skills outside of class.
- Appear and act in a professional manner in and outside of class and follow the "norms" of training established in the GTOT workshop.
- Demonstrate flexibility in adapting to the changing needs of training and a willingness to take on new challenges as they arise.
- Act as a counselor and resource to all trainees (not just to those within one's language cluster).
- Maintain professional confidentiality with Volunteers and Staff.
LCF/HHC SAFETY AND SECURITY
All staff members are responsible to know, contribute to, and adhere to PC Global and Post-safety and security policies and procedures.
- Identifies and immediately communicates Trainee/Volunteer safety and security concerns or issues to the TM/LCC.
- Monitors Trainee/Volunteer compliance with Peace Corps policies, especially related to safety and security, and initiates corrective action as necessary.
- Knowledgeable and supportive of Peace Corps safety and security policies and procedures, including the timely reporting of suspicious incidents, persons or articles.
- Per MS 270, all members of the Peace Corps staff must be familiar with the Emergency Action Plan and their responsibilities in the event of an emergency.
- Participates in the implementation of the Emergency Action Plan (EAP).
- Immediately communicate Trainee/Volunteer safety and security concerns and issues to the TM/LCC.
- Immediately report anything contrary to or in violation of Peace Corps policy to the TM/LCC.
- As per MS 243, maintain all confidentiality as necessary in circumstances where that is required.
- Supports the safety and security systems that are in place for pre-service training including reinforcing trainee roles and responsibilities related to personal safety and security.
- Evaluates and reports volunteer/trainee acquisition of safety and security competencies.
- Evaluates homestay sites to ensure conformity to established standards.
- Ensures host families and local officials are willing and able to provide appropriate support to trainees.
- Coordinates orientation of host families including safety and security matters related to trainees.
LCF/HHC OTHER PEACE CORPS RESPONSIBILITIES
- Act as an Occasional Money Handler, as assigned, to perform work within the scope of duties. The PSC may be required to courier cash and/or purchase orders to various vendors who furnish supplies and/or services to PST/IST training sites, or other locations as directed by the Contracting Officer. The PSC may also be required to courier cash to PC trainees or volunteers. The PSC will not be functioning as a procurement or disbursing official but will only be acting as an intermediary between the Contracting or Disbursing Officer and the recipient. In the case of dealing with vendors, the PSC will not exercise any procurement discretion concerning the supplies or services to be purchased or the cost limits of these purchases; these will be determined by the Contracting Officer.
- Be proactive to identify and address concerns before they become problems for the Peace Corps
- Performs other duties or assignments, when deemed necessary by the Country Director, Director of Management and Operations, General Services Manager, or Motorpool and Facilities Coordinator, Training Manager, Language and Culture Coordinator for the successful implementation of Peace Corps programs and/or operations in Malawi.
- Other Flexibilities: If there is a time at post, due to a pandemic or for any other reason, when there are limited or no Peace Corps Trainees and/or Volunteers (jointly referred to as “Volunteers”) at Peace Corps/Malawi, the PSC may be temporarily assigned during that period, as determined by the Peace Corps Country Director, to carry out additional duties and responsibilities in furtherance of the goals of the Peace Corps in order to enhance the ability of Peace Corps Volunteers to perform functions under the Peace Corps Act, including facilitating a safe environment in order for the successful return or increase of Volunteers.
This temporary assignment may require the PSC to provide services and/or support beyond what is listed in their current Statement of Work (SOW). The services and/or support may take many forms, examples of which may include but are not limited to, training, providing administrative, technical, medical, and/or operational assistance, building on host country programs, etc. This temporary assignment also may require the PSC to provide these services and/or support to individuals/organizations other than those listed in their current SOW such as host country government, partner organization(s), community member(s), staff, and/or contractors.
LOGISTICS
The position is based at the PST Village in Mkanda, Mchinji. There may be periods of work at the Peace Corps office in Lilongwe and other locations around the country. Travel in official vehicles and working with standard office equipment (computers, phones, printers, etc.) is required.
LEVEL OF EFFORT
The normal hours of work are 7:00am – 5:00pm from Monday to Thursday, and 7:00am – 2:00pm on Fridays with exceptions on Fridays that often extend to 5:00pm. Occasional extended hours (nights, weekends, holidays) are required as requested by the Training Manager or LCC.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Diploma/Degree in Education, Community Development, Social Work or related field.
- Ability to relocate, live and work in a rural area for a minimum of four months
- English Proficiency (Spoken and written)
- High proficiency in Chichewa
- High proficiency in Tumbuka
- High proficiency in either Tonga or Lambya
- At least 3 years of knowledge and experience with adult learning and participatory methods, including a demonstrated ability to design, deliver, and assess training programs, particularly in volunteer support, community engagement.
- At least 3 years working within communities, in roles that promote language and cultural integration and an understanding of local dynamics. Ability to interpret and teach local and cultural nuances.
- Strong computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Windows operating system. Beginner level proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook, and Teams.
- Willing to work extended hours, holidays, and weekends
- At least 1 year experience working in a multi-cultural setting
- Strong interpersonal skills allowing success in establishing strong links between the host families, Trainees/Volunteers, and Peace Corps staff
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team member to include prioritizing multiple tasks, paying attention to details, and follow-up on duties.
- Professional, courteous, and punctual.
Preferred Requirements
- At least 1 year of experience working with volunteer organizations, including the unique challenges of placing and supporting volunteers in communities.
- More than 1 year living or working in multicultural environments, demonstrating adaptability, respect, and the ability to navigate complex cultural contexts.
- At least 1 year of experience managing initiatives, coordinating logistics, or managing projects to successful implementation
- Demonstrated ability to assess risks, mediate conflicts, and provide immediate and long-term support for volunteers and communities
- Demonstrated ability to provide compassionate, nonjudgmental support to a person in crisis, including those who have experienced trauma, crime, or safety concerns.
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DATES/LENGTH OF CONTRACT:
- The anticipated contract will be for a period of up to five months from April – August with occasional working days in other periods of the year. This contract may be renewed for multiple years.
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COMPENSATION:
Based on salary history and experience. The Salary Range of the Position is $13,357 to $20,487
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ADDITIONAL
- Peace Corps reserves the right to not evaluate or to withhold an offer of a personal services contract to an individual that has a history of poor past performance or
- Conduct as a Peace Corps Trainee, Volunteer, or staff member (USDH, PSC, or FSN).
- Peace Corps reserves the right to withhold an offer of a personal services contract to an individual that is a relative or household member of a current Peace Corps staff member.
- The contract is contingent on the availability of funds and reference and background checks.
- Individuals who have current or prior connections with intelligence activities or agencies through employment, related work, or even family relations may be ineligible for a personal services contract.
- The successful candidate will be required to follow any workplace health and/or safety rules indicated for their position – including complying with any medical and/or training requirements specified for their position in accordance with public health and/or occupational health or safety policies.
- Peace Corps will not discriminate against an applicant because of that person's race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.
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HOW TO APPLY:
Candidates who meet the required minimum qualifications listed above should send the following to mw-jobs@peacecorps.gov
- Current curriculum vitae
- Cover letter
- Application Form on this link PSC_Application_Form-LCFHHC.docx
- The title of the position LCF/HHC must be clearly marked in the subject line of the email message
To be considered, the documentation submitted must clearly demonstrate how the candidate has met the stated minimum qualifications.
Applications must be received no later than 17:00, 7 February 2026. Only candidates invited to an interview will be contacted.
Deadline: February 7, 2026