Applications are invited for following post in the Examination and Assessment Administration Services Branch, Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information Youth: Academic Assessments Officer (GMG/EO 2) – (5 posts) (2 Vacant & 3 Not Vacant)

Salary range $11,175,811 – $14,305,983 per annum.

Job Purpose

Under the general direction of the Manager, Academic Assessments, the Academic Assessments Officer is responsible for the development, construction and reviews. The incumbent will construct diagnostic tools and test instruments of sound psychometrics quality to assess students at the national level.

Key Responsibilities

Technical/Professional:

• Develops assessment instruments to test students for national exams;
• Maintains the security of the developed assessment tools for exams;
• Co-ordinates the facilitation of analysis and technical reviews of national assessments;
• Manages the development of assessment item banks to include, writing, editing and pre-testing;
• Facilitates standard-setting activities by providing psychometric support;
• Supports training activities on test writing and development for national exams;
• Conducts marking and reviews of exam scripts in post-assessment operations;
• Conducts post-assessment e-marking activities for national exams;
• Supports the development of assessment policies and guidelines for national exams;
• Supports the training of school stakeholders in the development of assessment policies;
• Liaises with the Data Management and Analysis Section to prepare qualitative and quantitative analysis reports on test results;
• Assists with empirical studies on various issues related to quality and performance criteria of tests;
• Assists with the preparation of instruction for administering tests;
• Prepares materials to enhance the administration, scoring and reporting of test results;
• Ensures the security of tests and other assessment materials during the test development phase;
• Supports the supervision of the marking of test papers to maintain validity of result.

Management/Administrative:

• Encourages innovation and a culture of continuous improvement within the Branch;
• Leverages technology and analytics to enhance efficiency in the execution of duties;
• Supports the administration and co-ordination of special programmes such as the Programme; for International Student Assessment (PISA), as needed;
• Participates in meetings and workshops concerning the branch’s strategic planning and policy agendas;
• Keeps current with developments in the areas of assessment development;
• Performs any other related duties that may be assigned from time to time.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Core:

• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to exercise initiative
• Good oral and written communication skills
• Good presentation skills
• Good time management skills
• Good organizing skills
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Attention to details
• High level of integrity and professionalism
• Sound decision-making skills

Technical:

• Ability to manage data and conduct analysis
• Good knowledge of the Education Act and Regulations
• Good knowledge of Staff Orders, and Public Service Regulations
• Knowledge of testing, measurement/assessment, research and statistical principles
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint)
• Knowledge of Psychometric principles and practice

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Master’s Degree in Education, Psychology or related areas from a recognized institution;
• Certificate in educational testing would be an asset;
• Experience using psychometric principles;
• Three (3) years’ experience in teaching and test development environment.
• Special Condition Associated with the Job
• May be required to work on public holidays/ weekends;
• May be required to work beyond normal working hours in order to meet deadlines.

Applications accompanied by Résumés should be submitted no later than Friday, 11th April, 2025 to:

Director, Human Resource Management
Ministry of Education, skills, Youth and Information
2- 4 National Heroes Circle
Kingston 4

Email: jobapplications@moey.gov.jm

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.