About the Opportunity
Northeastern Universitys 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: MondayThursday 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 bachelors 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:
Position Type
TemporaryAdditional 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 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:
$17/hourRequired Experience:
Junior IC
Founded in 1898, Northeastern is a global, experiential, research university built on a tradition of engagement with the world.