Instructional Designer

$49,000 - $81,000/Yr

Southwest Key Programs - Austin, TX

Full-time

Onsite - Austin, TX

Social Assistance

About the position

The Instructional Designer position at Southwest Key Programs Inc. is a critical role that leverages extensive experience in instructional design, cognitive psychology, and adult learning theory to address knowledge and performance gaps within the organization. The successful candidate will expertly analyze content, organize it effectively, and design innovative solutions that include storyboards, scripts, performance support materials, mobile learning modules, and manuals. This position requires a deep understanding of how to utilize collaborative tools to facilitate learning and enhance the educational experience for diverse audiences. In this role, the Instructional Designer will employ the ADDIE model to create engaging learning activities and compelling course content that not only enhances retention but also ensures the effective transfer of knowledge. Collaboration with subject matter experts is essential to identify the training needs of the target audience, develop clear learning objectives, and create content that aligns with these goals. The designer will also visualize instructional graphics, user interfaces, and the final product, ensuring that all elements are cohesive and effective. The position involves conducting thorough instructional research and analysis on learners and their contexts, applying tested instructional design theories, practices, and methods. The designer will be responsible for creating exercises and activities that support evidence-based learning processes, as well as developing various supporting materials such as audio, video, simulations, role plays, and games. Additionally, the role includes devising progressive assessment methods to measure the effectiveness of the learning initiatives and maintaining project documentation to ensure compliance with organizational standards. Other duties may be assigned as needed, requiring flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.

Responsibilities

• Utilize the ADDIE model to create engaging learning activities and compelling course content that enhances retention and transfer of knowledge.
• Work with subject matter experts to identify target audience's training needs.
• Develop learning objectives and instructional end goals and create content that matches them.
• Visualize instructional graphics, the user interface, and the finished product.
• Create graphic learning elements and visuals.
• Conduct instructional research and analysis on learners and contexts.
• Apply tested instructional design theories, practices, and methods.
• Design and develop exercises and activities that enhance the evidence-based learning process.
• Create supporting material/media (audio, video, simulations, role plays, games, etc.).
• Devise progressive modes of assessment to measure the effectiveness of the learning.
• Maintain project documentation and course folders to ensure compliance.
• Participate in and comply with all meetings, assignments, process improvement, and quality improvement initiatives as assigned by supervisor.

Requirements

• BS or MA degree in instructional design, educational technology or similar.
• Proven working experience in instructional design and with instructional technology.
• Excellent knowledge of learning theories and instructional design models.
• Lesson and curriculum planning skills.
• Solid knowledge of course development software and at least one Learning Management System.
• Visual design skills (Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Illustrator) and ability to storyboard.
• Ability to write effective copy, instructional text, audio scripts/video scripts.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Understanding of varied learning styles.
• Knowledge of assessment and evaluation methods.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree in educational technology or related field, preferred.
• Knowledge of Learning Management Systems.
• Bilingual (Spanish).
• At least two (2) years' experience in non-profits.