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Course Development Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Instructional Designers

Campus, IL · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Apply instructional design models and learning theories to support effective course development * Design and develop instructional materials using Canvas and other instructional tools * Ensure ...

Instructional Designers

Campus, IL · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Apply instructional design models and learning theories to support effective course development * Design and develop instructional materials using Canvas and other instructional tools * Ensure ...

Apply instructional design models and learning theories to support effective course development * Design and develop instructional materials using Canvas and other instructional tools * Ensure ...

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Course Development information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$39

$81

How much do course development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for course development in Illinois is $39.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $67.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is course development?

Course development is the process of designing, organizing, and creating educational courses or training programs. It involves identifying learning objectives, developing instructional materials, structuring content, and assessing how learners will be evaluated. Course developers often collaborate with subject matter experts and use instructional design principles to ensure the course is engaging and effective. The goal is to deliver a meaningful learning experience that meets the needs of students or trainees.

How does the course development role typically collaborate with subject matter experts and instructional designers?

In a course development role, collaboration with subject matter experts (SMEs) and instructional designers is essential to create effective and engaging learning experiences. Course developers often facilitate meetings with SMEs to gather content, clarify complex concepts, and ensure accuracy, while working closely with instructional designers to structure content in a way that maximizes learner engagement and comprehension. Regular communication and feedback loops are common, ensuring that course materials align with both educational standards and organizational objectives. This collaborative environment fosters creativity and continuous improvement throughout the course creation process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in course development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Course Development, you need expertise in instructional design, curriculum planning, and subject matter knowledge, often supported by a degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS), authoring tools like Articulate or Captivate, and knowledge of e-learning standards such as SCORM are typically required. Creativity, strong communication, and attention to detail help developers create engaging, learner-centered content. These skills ensure that courses are effective, accessible, and aligned with learning objectives, leading to successful educational outcomes.

What is the difference between Course Development vs Instructional Designer?

AspectCourse DevelopmentInstructional Designer
CredentialsTypically requires education in education, instructional design, or related fields; certifications like ATD or ISTD are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in education, instructional design, or related areas; certifications like ATD or ISTD are also common
Work EnvironmentOften involved in creating courses for online, corporate, or educational settings; may work with subject matter expertsDesigns learning experiences across various platforms; collaborates with subject matter experts and multimedia teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in education, corporate training, e-learning companiesCommon in educational institutions, corporate training, e-learning development

While both roles focus on creating effective learning experiences, Course Development primarily involves building and producing courses, whereas Instructional Designers focus on designing the overall learning strategy and experience. Both roles often overlap and require similar skills and credentials, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How do you become a course developer?

To become a course developer, individuals typically need a strong background in the subject area, instructional design skills, and proficiency with e-learning tools or learning management systems. Gaining relevant experience through education, certifications in instructional design, or related roles can improve job prospects.

What does a course development do?

A course development professional designs, creates, and organizes educational content and materials for training programs or online courses. They collaborate with subject matter experts, use instructional design principles, and often utilize tools like learning management systems (LMS) to ensure effective learning experiences.

What are the most commonly searched types of Course Development jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Course Development jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Course Development jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Course Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Course Development job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,413 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Instructional Designers

Campus, IL • On-site


University of Utah
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$60K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Details
Open Date 08/04/2026 Requisition Number PRN45826B Job Title Instructional Designers Working Title Instructional Designer, Online Development Career Progression Track P00 Track Level P2 - Developing, P1 - Entry Level Pro FLSA Code Professional Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary
  • Monday through Friday, on-site at the University of Utah.
  • This role is not eligible for hybrid or remote work and is considered an essential campus position supporting faculty, staff, and students in person.
VP Area Academic Affairs Department 00033 - Executive Education Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range $60,000 to $72,000 Close Date 10/15/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary
The Instructional Designer of the University of Utah's David Eccles School of Business Online Development will work closely with faculty and staff to update and improve online and hybrid courses. The incumbent will promote the use of technology-based resources in teaching and learning and provide consultation, instruction, and assistance to faculty, students, and staff on the editing, design, production, quality assurance, and instructional technology for curriculum development.
Responsibilities
  • Consult with faculty and staff to design and improve courses based on learning goals, pedagogical best practices, and student needs
  • Collaborate with faculty in outlining, organizing, and storyboarding content for online and hybrid formats
  • Manage instructional design projects and initiatives, coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery
  • Support faculty in creating clear, measurable learning objectives aligned with assessments and desired course outcomes
  • Develop course structures, instructional strategies, and learning activities that enhance engagement, retention, and the achievement of learning objectives
  • Apply instructional design models and learning theories to support effective course development
  • Design and develop instructional materials using Canvas and other instructional tools
  • Ensure content accessibility and inclusivity by applying WCAG standards and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles
  • Manage instructional design projects and initiatives, coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery
  • Support course evaluation and continuous improvement through the use of surveys and learner feedback
  • Deliver training on instructional design practices, course development tools, and digital pedagogy
  • Stay current with trends in pedagogy, instructional design, and educational technologies to inform design decisions
  • Contribute to the success of the Eccles School by demonstrating professionalism, enthusiasm, and competency in both written and face-to-face communication 

Note: This job description does not comprehensively list all the required duties, responsibilities, and qualifications. Additional responsibilities may be assigned to support program needs.
Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required
Nearly Continuously: Office environment.
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead, lifting - up to 20 lbs.
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

Instructional Designer, I: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master's (or equivalency) degree.

Instructional Designer, II: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience.
Preferences
  • Demonstrated experience in the field of online distance education in an academic setting.
  • Ability to manage projects to successful deadline-oriented completion.
  • Ability to work well in a team environment and to work effectively with a variety of academic constituencies.
  • Expertise in instructional design and online learning to provide feedback and support to faculty at every stage of course development
Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.

Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/
Online reports may be submitted at oeo.utah.edu

https://safety.utah.edu/safetyreport This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.

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About University of Utah

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US


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