Instructional Design Support Specialist (Level 2)

The Instructional Design Support Specialist (Level 2) will work within the National Ocean Service (NOS) Management and Budget Office (MBO) to provide instructional design and curriculum development services. This position focuses on developing engaging, accessible learning materials and training programs in alignment with adult learning principles. The Specialist will collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs) to design and deliver high-quality online, hybrid, and in-person training that supports NOS’s mission-critical workforce development and performance goals. 

Course Development: 

• Collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs) to design and develop instructional content that adheres to adult learning theory and is aligned with the strategic goals of the NOS. 
• Create interactive and engaging instructional materials for online, hybrid, and in-person courses. 
• Develop learning activities, assignments, and assessments that are aligned with course objectives and provide measurable outcomes. 

Curriculum Design: 

• Design and develop comprehensive courses and curriculum using instructional design models such as ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate). 
• Ensure all course content is accessible and adheres to 508 compliance standards. 
• Design storyboards, lesson plans, and facilitator guides that enhance the learning experience and ensure consistency across courses. 
• Update and refine existing online content to ensure it is current, engaging, and aligned with organizational goals. 

Interactive Learning Tools: 

• Develop and integrate computer-based training (CBT) modules that support diverse learning styles and are optimized for different delivery platforms. 
• Author scripts for video and audio content that support course delivery, ensuring clarity and engagement. 
• Create instructional materials that are responsive to emerging learning technologies and platforms. 

Instructional Technology: 

• Work with technical staff to troubleshoot issues related to online learning platforms and other learning technologies. 
• Provide training and guidance to course instructors on how to effectively use learning technologies, including Learning Management Systems (LMS), to deliver content. 
• Train staff and instructors in the best practices for online and hybrid course delivery to ensure successful learning outcomes. 

Quality Assurance: 

• Ensure that all instructional materials are evaluated regularly for effectiveness and updated as necessary. 
• Collect feedback from learners and instructors to identify areas for improvement in course design, delivery, and content. 
• Incorporate continuous improvements in instructional design methods to ensure alignment with best practices in educational theory and technology. 

DEIA-Aligned Curriculum Development:

• Develop courses that integrate DEIA into the learning objectives, ensuring inclusivity in course design, materials, and delivery methods. Use adult learning principles to design training that meets the needs of diverse learners across NOAA, including underrepresented groups and employees seeking wellness and professional development opportunities. 

Training Evaluation & Continuous Improvement:

• Assess the effectiveness of training programs with a specific focus on DEIA outcomes. Help refine training based on feedback, ensuring that NOS continues to promote an inclusive and equitable learning environment. 

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in instructional design, education, or a related field. 

Experience: 

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in instructional design, curriculum development, or training support. 
• Experience designing and delivering online and hybrid courses using adult learning principles. 
• Familiarity with the ADDIE, Kirkpatrick, or similar instructional design and evaluation models. 

Technical Skills: 

• Proficiency in eLearning authoring tools such as Articulate 360, Adobe Captivate, or similar platforms. 
• Experience with Learning Management Systems (LMS) for course delivery and tracking. 
• Ability to design accessible (508-compliant) learning materials and integrate inclusive practices into the learning experience. 

Communication: 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts clearly. 
• Experience working with SMEs to translate complex information into learner-friendly content. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience with federal government training programs, particularly within NOAA or other science-based organizations. 
• Certification in instructional design (e.g., Certified Professional in Learning and Performance, or similar). 
• Experience using tools like Camtasia or Captivate for multimedia content development. 
• Knowledge of HTML/CSS for customizing eLearning platforms or LMS. 

Key Competencies: 

• Instructional Design Expertise: Strong understanding of adult learning principles and the ability to design effective, engaging learning experiences across multiple formats (in-person, online, hybrid). 
• Technical Skills: Ability to effectively use authoring tools, multimedia production software, and LMS to design and deliver high-quality instructional content. 
• Collaboration: Proven ability to collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs), technical staff, and instructors to design courses that meet organizational needs and learner objectives. 
• Problem Solving: Ability to troubleshoot technical issues related to course content and delivery platforms, ensuring a smooth learning experience for participants. 
• Adaptability: Skilled at managing multiple projects simultaneously, with the flexibility to adjust course designs based on learner feedback and changing organizational goals. 

Work Environment: 

Inclusive Training Design: Riverside is dedicated to creating learning experiences that are engaging, accessible, and aligned with DEIA principles. In this role, you will ensure that all instructional content reflects DEIA best practices, making training accessible to learners from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities. Wellness is also integrated into our training approach, ensuring that courses promote a balanced, healthy work environment. 

Primary location at NOAA's NOS facility in Silver Spring, MD, with the potential for telework on a limited basis, as approved. 

Occasional travel may be required for training or meetings with SMEs or other stakeholders. 

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development