Temporary Program Assistant

About the Opportunity

Northeastern University’s Speech-Language and Hearing Center (SLHC) is seeking an innovative, collaborative, and flexible Program Assistant to support the operations of the summer 2026 Word Detectives reading program.

Program Logistics:

Word Detectives is offered in-person for 16 days in July: Monday–Thursday, July 6-July 30 + Friday, July 31. The program consists of instruction from 9:00am – 1:00pm, with early drop off from 8:00-9:00, a supervised recess from 10:30 – 11:30am, and weekly staff meetings one day/week from 1:15 – 2:15pm. Pre-program training & orientation and 2 post-program wrap up days required.

Role & Responsibilities:

The Program Assistant will have responsibilities related to, but not limited to the following operational tasks:

• providing assistance to the SLHC Clinical Operations Manager with regards to client files and documents, and related SLHC front desk tasks (e.g., copying, delivery of materials to classrooms, filing documents, etc.);

• data entry related to program assessments

• management of student drop-off, pick-up, and attendance;

• planning and overseeing activity time, snack/breaks, and lunch;

• assisting with teacher and graduate student classroom preparation and curriculum planning;

• assisting with classroom instruction with established plans as needed

• responding to unexpected needs as they arise

• working collaboratively with graduate student clinicians, Head Teachers, and Program Directors

Emphasis on Motivation:

Word Detectives also specializes in facilitating motivation and engagement among participating students. Rather than relying on incentives, the Program integrates research-based motivational strategies designed to encourage persistence, engagement, and independent learning. Motivational strategies are centered around four themes – autonomy, belonging, competence, and meaning. Many of the academic activities that reinforce these themes are borrowed from the Responsive Classroom program. Through participation in a program orientation session in June, the Program Assistant Intern will receive additional training in this area if unfamiliar with these concepts.

Qualifications:

• High school students in good standing with a GPA of >3.0 and an interest in working with children; or college students in pursuit of a bachelor’s or higher degree in education, Speech-Language Pathology, or a related field with a GPA of >3.0

• Experience in summer program/camp settings that include an instructional component and overseeing groups of children engaged in activities preferred

• Experience interacting with children in any capacity; experience with behavior management a plus

• Training in reading instruction a plus

Interested individuals should send their resumes to Caren McDonough: [email protected].

Position Type

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

This job is for a current or anticipated job vacancy.

Pay Rate: