Director, Stanford Language Center

Stanford University; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 149,247 - 255,852; Full time

Job summary

Stanford University is seeking a Director for the Stanford Language Center (SLC). This position requires a Ph.D. and a proven record in language teaching and leadership. The role includes providing strategic leadership, monitoring language instruction, and advocating for language education.

The successful candidate will ensure the development of innovative programs and represent the SLC in university initiatives. The anticipated salary range is $149,247 - $255,852, with applications reviewed starting October 1, 2026.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in applied linguistics, language pedagogy, or related field required.
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching and leadership.
• Record of scholarly contributions in language acquisition.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the SLC.
• Monitor language instruction and faculty development.
• Advocate for language education at Stanford.

Skills

Leadership in language education

Excellence in teaching

Administrative experience

Knowledge of ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in relevant field

Job description

Position Overview:

Stanford University invites applications for the position of Director of the Stanford Language Center (SLC), a faculty position as Associate or Full Professor (Teaching) within one of the language and literature departments in the School of Humanities & Sciences. Founded in 1995, the SLC oversees the development, implementation, and assessment of language instruction at Stanford. Stanford is seeking an experienced and innovative leader to shape the future of second language acquisition education at one of the world’s premier research institutions. The initial appointment will be for a fixed term, but a reappointment could be a continuing term.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the SLC at a moment of dramatic change in language teaching globally, ensuring the continued development of its programs and initiatives.
• Monitor language instruction in over 40 languages, including program assessment, faculty development, student proficiency ratings, and instructor evaluations.
• Provide leadership in the training and development of lecturers and Teaching Assistants.
• Represent the SLC in university-wide initiatives and advocate for language education in Stanford’s broader academic mission.
• Coordinate with key constituencies, especially faculty in the Division of Literatures, Cultures and Languages and the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in a relevant field, such as applied linguistics, language pedagogy, literary studies, or second language acquisition.
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching and leadership in language education.
• A record of scholarly contributions to language acquisition, pedagogy, or related areas.
• Well-versed in ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines and World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages.
• Administrative experience in language instruction in higher education.

Application Process

Candidates should submit the following:

1. A cover letter addressing their vision for the SLC and qualifications for the position.
2. A curriculum vitae.
3. Contact information for three references.

Finalists will be asked to submit a syllabus for a course to train PhD students in second language pedagogy, a writing sample and teaching evaluations.

Applications will be reviewed starting October 1, 2026, and the position will remain open until filled. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2027.

The salary range for this position is $149,247 - $255,852.

Further information about the Stanford Language Center can be found at https://language.stanford.edu/.

Inquiries may be directed to [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Statement

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University’s research, teaching, and clinical missions.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact [e-mail].