Senior Instructional Designer

We are seeking a creative and experienced Senior Instructional Designer to join our team to design and develop engaging, high-impact learning solutions. The ideal candidate will blend adult learning principles with innovative technology to create eLearning, instructor-led training (ILT), and blended learning experiences that improve performance. You will collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs) to translate complex information into clear, effective learning materials that align with organizational goals and learner needs.

Essential Job Functions

Training & Curriculum Development

• Design & Development: Create engaging learning activities and compelling course content that enhances retention and transfer of knowledge.
• eLearning Authoring: Develop high-quality eLearning modules using tools such as Articulate Storyline 360/Rise.
• Adult Learning Principles: Apply validated instructional design methodologies (e.g., ADDIE, SAM) to create learning solutions.
• SME Collaboration: Partner with subject matter experts to identify target audience training needs and define learning objectives.
• Assessment & Evaluation: Design assessments and evaluation instruments to measure learning effectiveness and ROI.
• Innovation: Stay current on L&D trends, including using AI tools for content curation and rapid prototyping.
• Project Consultation: Establish project scope, manage review cycles, and negotiate competing priorities among project stakeholders to keep development on schedule.
• Equity & Accessibility: Apply inclusive design frameworks and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to ensure all learning materials are culturally responsive and fully accessible (WCAG 2.1 compliant) for a diverse audience.

Qualifications

Minimum Education, Experience & Training Equivalent to:

We believe humans with a diverse range of experiences may be suited for the work at hand. We are avoiding education minimums with an acknowledgment that these can be barriers for historically excluded groups. We’re looking for someone who brings deep expertise in people-centered work and is excited to grow with us. This role is well suited for someone who has:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Instructional Design, Education, Educational Technology, or a related field preferred;  relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 5+ years of experience in instructional design, curriculum development, or a related role.
• Proficiency with e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate Storyline 360/Rise).
• Strong understanding of adult learning principles and instructional design models (e.g., ADDIE, SAM, design thinking).
• Experience using artificial intelligence (AI) to create engaging learning offering.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Experience designing for diverse and accessible audiences.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a portfolio of work samples.
• Experience working in a mission-driven or nonprofit organization, preferred.

What would be a plus:

• Problem-solving: Ability to analyze learning gaps and recommend effective solutions.
• Creativity: Ability to develop innovative and engaging learning experiences.
• Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy and quality across all instructional materials.
• Adaptability: Adjusts approach to meet the needs of diverse learners and evolving organizational priorities.
• Project Management: Manages timelines, resources, and deliverables efficiently.
• Systems: Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS).
• Expertise: Basic understanding of UI/UX principles for learner engagement.

Requests:

• Must be able to communicate effectively within the work environment, read and write using the primary language within the workplace.
• Visual and auditory ability to work with clients, staff and others in the workplace continuously.
• Frequent speaking and listening (25-75%) to clients, staff, and others in the workplace.
• Utilize computer and cell phone for effective communication.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (organized by our company values): 

Community oriented: 

• Seeks to understand the underlying needs, desires, and values of colleagues. 
• Proactively builds spaces for others to engage in learning and community.
• Appreciates and demonstrates collaboration across teams. 
• Work in an exciting, fast paced high energy environment while effectively multitasking and managing day-to-day responsibilities without supervision.
• Personable; able to work comfortably with individuals at all levels within the organization.
• Excellent verbal and writing communication skills; frequent proofreading and checking documents for accuracy.

Equity informed:

• Approaches work with a growth mindset, welcome feedback, and understand that humans all have biases and are imperfect as a baseline. 
• Sensitivity to working with an ethnically, linguistically, culturally, and economically diverse population.

Bold:

• Navigates ambiguity with an excitement for problem solving. 
• Commitment to meet agreed upon deadlines on time or ahead of schedule. 
• Transparent on action, pursuits, and outcomes.
• A commitment to the values of the organization while demonstrating good judgment, flexibility, patience and discretion when dealing with confidential and sensitive matters.

Wellbeing driven: 

• Willingness and commitment to self-reflection and re-thinking.  
• Ability to understand your physical, mental, social, and financial wellbeing needs with a willingness to co-create boundaries that allow you to sustainably show up and honor your humanity.
• Commitment to managing a remote schedule that aligns with PST business hours, ensuring your availability supports a healthy team rhythm and effective cross-functional partnership.

Conditions of Employment

• Ability to obtain and maintain criminal record clearance through the Department of Justice (DOJ). The People & Performance Department must analyze DOJ/FBI live scan reports in accordance with applicable Federal, State, and Local laws, as well as fitness for the position.
• Ability to obtain and maintain clearance through the Office of Inspector General.
• Must attend any required training.

Time Type:

Part time

Compensation:$48-$64 Per Hour

The statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job. It should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas as deemed fit for the organization.