Instructional Designer

Role Overview

We are seeking an dynamic and systems-oriented Instructional System Designer to join the Test & Evaluation Training team. This role will focus on designing scalable frameworks, processes, and platforms to implement technical training solutions that meet the needs of both internal employees and external clients.

The ISD will collaborate closely with the Senior Manager of Training Operations, Curriculum Developer, and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to operationalize training content into systems and structures that enable seamless delivery and accessibility for diverse end-user audiences. As a key partner in training lifecycle, the ISD will help design the “how” of training delivery with a focus on scalability, effectiveness, and system performance. They will also play a critical role in ensuring that training solutions are delivered efficiently while navigating complex environments shaped by the Air Force and other military standards and regulations.

The ideal candidate is a strong systems thinker with a proven ability to navigate ambiguous environments, particularly within technical and military training contexts. They bring a background in designing and implementing learning systems, along with the skills to collaborate effectively across multiple business lines and cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Systems Design & Implementation:
• Design and implement scalable instructional systems, frameworks, and processes to deliver highly technical training content (e.g., LMS platforms, SCORM-compliant systems, virtual training platforms, or other performance support tools).
• Develop innovative approaches to operationalizing technical training, optimizing delivery methods while working within the constraints of Air Force or other military standards and regulations.
• Test and validate system performance to ensure seamless integration of training content developed by Curriculum Developers.
• Conduct usability testing to ensure systems meet the needs of end-users, including engineers, pilots, maintainers, and government clients.
• Stakeholder Collaboration:
• Work with the Senior Manager of Training Operations, SMEs, and Curriculum Developers to design, implement, and scale training solutions that align with organizational objectives and military standards.
• Act as the strategic bridge between content creation teams and systems implementation, ensuring that what is created by Curriculum Developers aligns with how it is delivered.
• Build strong collaborative relationships across business lines, technical teams, and external clients, serving as a trusted advisor on training systems' design and optimization.
• Needs Analysis & Delivery Innovation:
• Conduct thorough training needs analyses to identify optimal systems or platforms for specific training goals based on the needs of diverse learners and stakeholders.
• Leverage expertise in industry standards and emerging technologies (e.g., SCORM-compliant tools, LMS platforms, AR/VR solutions, or AI-driven training platforms) to recommend and implement cutting-edge instructional systems.
• Align delivery methods with military or government standards, ensuring innovative, forward-thinking solutions are still compliant with required frameworks and policies.
• Evaluation & Optimization:
• Develop methods to monitor and report on system and learner performance, using LMS data, analytics dashboards, and evaluation models (e.g., Kirkpatrick’s Levels of Evaluation).
• Analyze data to refine implementation strategies, improve training effectiveness, and adapt to changing requirements.
• Partner with stakeholders to provide insights on how training systems contribute to performance outcomes and organizational objectives in technical or military contexts.
• Standardization & Compliance:
• Ensure all training systems and their implementation comply with military standards (e.g., Air Force training specifications), organizational policies, and industry benchmarks such as SCORM or xAPI.
• Maintain consistent documentation of systems processes, best practices, and lessons learned to create scalable, repeatable training system operations.
• Stay up-to-date on emerging military and government compliance requirements for training systems.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design, Systems Engineering, Educational Technology, or a related field.
• 5+ years experience as an Instructional Systems Designer or similar role, with demonstrated success in designing scalable frameworks for technical, engineering, aerospace, or defense-related environments.
• Familiarity with Air Force or other U.S. military training programs, including their standards and operational constraints, is required.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and work effectively in a matrixed and high-stakes environment.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with a focus on delivering innovative solutions while balancing organizational constraints.
• Proficiency with e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate) and multimedia production tools.
• Knowledge of systems integration standards and frameworks, including SCORM, xAPI, or cmi5 compliance.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting Group 5 UAS, FAA Part 145 MRO, production test, flight test environments, or highly technical/regulated industries.
• Understanding of Learning Management Systems (LMS) and training tracking tools (e.g., Cornerstone).
• Relevant certifications, such as CPLP, Agile Practitioner, or instructional design/technology credentials.
• Familiarity with immersive technologies, such as VR/AR, and their applications in training design and implementation.
• Experience with Agile workflows or project management tools like Jira.
• Prior Military experience (Operations or Maintenance Officer/Senior Enlisted).