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Course Author Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Author - creates course content, lessons, assessments, and projects. * Subject Matter Expert - shapes curriculum strategy, competency frameworks, and program direction. All roles are part-time: 10-15 ...

New

You can join us on a part-time basis (10-15 hours per week) as an instructor leading live sessions, a course author creating learning materials, or a subject matter expert supporting curriculum ...

New

Author - creates course content, lessons, assessments, and projects. * Subject Matter Expert - shapes curriculum strategy, competency frameworks, and program direction. All roles are part-time: 10-15 ...

New

You can join us on a part-time basis , contributing as an instructor leading live sessions and workshops, as a course author creating learning materials, or as a subject matter expert supporting ...

New

$40 - $150/hr

Author - creates course content, lessons, assessments, and projects. * Subject Matter Expert - shapes curriculum strategy, competency frameworks, and program direction. All roles are part-time: 10-15 ...

New

$40 - $80/hr

Author - creates course content, lessons, assessments, and projects. * Subject Matter Expert - shapes curriculum strategy, competency frameworks, and program direction. All roles are part-time: 10-15 ...

New

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Course Author information

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How much do course author jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for course author in the United States is $25.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $38.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Course Author, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Course Author, you need expertise in instructional design, subject matter knowledge, and a strong grasp of curriculum development, often supported by a relevant degree or teaching experience. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), authoring tools like Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate, and multimedia editing software is typically required. Exceptional written communication, creativity, and attention to detail help course authors create engaging and effective learning materials. These skills ensure that educational content is accurate, accessible, and tailored to diverse learning needs, maximizing learner engagement and outcomes.

What are some common challenges Course Authors face when developing new educational materials?

Course Authors often encounter challenges such as aligning content with learning objectives, maintaining engagement across diverse learner groups, and staying updated with evolving educational standards and technologies. Balancing clarity and depth is crucial, as authors must present complex concepts in an accessible way without oversimplifying. Collaboration with subject matter experts, instructional designers, and editors is also essential, requiring strong communication and project management skills to ensure timely and high-quality course delivery.

What are course authors?

Course authors are professionals who design, develop, and write educational content for courses, typically for online learning platforms, schools, or training programs. They research topics, organize material, and create engaging lessons, assessments, and multimedia resources. Their goal is to ensure that learning objectives are met and that the content is accessible and effective for learners.

What is the difference between Course Author vs Course Developer?

AspectCourse AuthorCourse Developer
CredentialsTypically requires subject matter expertise, instructional design knowledgeOften requires technical skills, programming or multimedia skills
Work EnvironmentCreates content, often independently or in small teamsDevelops and implements course platforms, often in tech teams
Industry UsageUsed in education, corporate training, e-learningUsed in e-learning platform development, LMS creation
Search/Comparison IntentInterested in content creation rolesInterested in technical development roles

While both roles contribute to online learning, a Course Author primarily focuses on designing and creating educational content, whereas a Course Developer handles the technical development and platform integration of courses. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Course Author jobs
What job categories do people searching Course Author jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Course Author jobs are:

Course Author

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site, Remote

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago


Penn State University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 99 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

147th of 530 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The School of Labor and Employment Relations is seeking qualified candidates to revise the following courses:
  • LHR 460: Ethics in the Workplace
  • HRER 504: Seminar in Employment Relations

Authors will work closely with Learning Design staff. Work will begin immediately and is expected to span one to two semesters, depending on the scope of the course revision.
Requirements, qualifications, and/or competencies:
  • The course author will be required to create an asynchronous class with 7 weeks of lessons.
  • Update lesson commentaries, syllabus, and readings
  • Update weekly assignments that measure student learning (Individual essays; group projects; discussion forums)
  • Create rubrics

Authors must have earned a minimum of a master's degree. PhD or JD is preferred.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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