English Linguistics Advisor

WHO WE ARE
The Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks (CCLB)/Centre des niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (CNCLC) is an Ottawa-based, national, non-profit organization. Since 1998, CCLB has been the centre of expertise in support of the Canadian Language Benchmarks and Niveaux de compétence linguistiques canadiens, the national standards for describing, measuring, and recognizing the second- language proficiency of immigrants and prospective immigrants for living and working in Canada. For more information about CCLB/CNCLC, visit www.language.ca.

WHY CCLB/CNCLC?

  • Interesting projects
  • Canada-wide resources and connections
  • Contribute to the field of ESL/FSL
  • Supportive CCLB staff
  • Professional growth and networking
  • Credibility in the field
  • Flexibility
  • Well-paid

APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested individuals are asked to submit the following documents:

  • A resume and cover letter that clearly outlines previous experience aligned with the requirements for the role and establishes expertise required of an English Linguistics Advisor to a national language project.

Please submit your application package to Krista Walsh-Murray, kwalsh-murray@language.ca.

Please ensure that the Subject Line reads: English Linguistics Advisor.

Open until filled.

We thank all applicants for their interest in this position; however, please note that we will contact only those selected for an interview.

ABOUT
Funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks is undertaking a three-year project to modernize its national frameworks: CLB: ESL for Adults, NCLC : Français langue seconde pour adultes, CLB: ESL for ALL, NCLC : FLS pour AMA and relevant supports, including the CLB Bootcamp and the Camp de formation aux NCLC.

The CCLB is inviting Expressions of Interest from qualified individuals with expertise in English linguistics to support and contribute to the modernization of the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB). This work will build on recommendations from national consultations conducted in 2025–2026 and will be guided by the CCLB Project Team.

CONSULTANT CONTRACT

100% Remote Work

TERM: October 19, 2026 to March 31, 2027 (with possibility of renewal)

RATE: $95.00 per hour plus applicable taxes

ROLE

The English Linguistics Advisor will provide expert guidance on the integration of current linguistic knowledge and research into the CLB modernization process and contribute framework content related to grammar, syntax, morphology, discourse, pragmatics, language progression, and authentic language. The advisor will work collaboratively with the modernization project team to ensure that linguistic concepts are accurate, evidence-based, accessible, and relevant to contemporary adult second-language learning, teaching, and assessment.

The English Linguistics Advisor will:

  • Apply current and emerging linguistic research and evidence-based practices to support the modernization of the CLB, including advising on language progression and language features across proficiency levels, and translating linguistic concepts into practical framework content.
  • Collaborate with writers, expert advisors, and project staff to translate complex linguistic concepts into practical guidance for framework users.
  • Contribute to the development of linguistic rationales, supporting documentation, and recommendations that inform framework revisions.
  • Participate in consultations, working groups, and review processes to provide expert feedback on proposed framework content and modernizations.

REQUIREMENTS
The ideal candidate will bring:

  • Advanced academic qualifications in Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, TESL/TESOL, Second Language Acquisition, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated expertise in English grammar, syntax, morphology, semantics, pragmatics, discourse analysis, and language variation.
  • Strong knowledge of principles and practices of adult ESL education in Canada.
  • Demonstrated expertise applying linguistic theory to educational frameworks, curriculum development, assessment design, language standards, or adult language education programs.
  • Experience working collaboratively and virtually with interdisciplinary teams and translating theoretical concepts into practical tools and resources.
  • Knowledge of and/or prior experience with the CLB is strongly preferred.
  • Excellent written communication and reporting skills.
  • While work for this position will be completed in English, English/French bilingualism is an asset.
  • Consultants are required to have a safe remote working environment and technology necessary for the project. This includes but is not limited to reliable, secure Wi-Fi, laptop, and software (Microsoft Office). The CCLB does not provide technology to consultants or contractors.

ESTIMATED TIME COMMITMENT

  • Part-time, casual contract. Up to 25 days (200 hours) between October 19, 2026 and March 31, 2027. Specific hours of work will vary depending on project needs.
  • Must have flexible availability between 9:00am and 5:00pm ET for collaborating with various CCLB internal and project teams, who may be located across Canada.