Freelance Remote Learning Development Jobs in Detroit, MI

Instructional Designer – Manufacturing Learning & Development

Location: Warren, MI

Hybrid | Remote (Based on Business Need)

Full Time | Contract Opportunity

Pay Rate: $33- $35 / hour

Benefits Begin Day 1

Paid Time Off

Paid Holidays

Position Overview

Reliance One, Inc. is seeking an experienced Instructional Designer – Manufacturing Learning & Development to support learning initiatives within a manufacturing environment. This role will partner closely with business leaders, subject matter experts, and plant stakeholders to design and deliver performance-based learning solutions that improve safety, quality, productivity, and operational excellence.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in adult learning principles, instructional design methodologies, and manufacturing operations, with the ability to translate complex technical content into engaging, practical learning experiences.

What You'll Be Doing

Learning Strategy & Consulting

• Advise manufacturing business partners, plant stakeholders, and subject matter experts on adult learning principles and performance-based learning strategies.
• Conduct needs analyses to identify performance gaps, determine root causes, and recommend targeted learning and performance support solutions.
• Partner with SMEs, frontline representatives, and leaders through interviews, observations, and working sessions to validate learning needs.
• Use business data and operational insights to align learning strategies with manufacturing goals related to safety, quality, productivity, and program launches.

Design & Development

• Design and develop learning experiences using methodologies such as ADDIE, SAM, rapid prototyping, action-based learning, and scenario-based learning.
• Create engaging, practice-focused learning activities that mirror real manufacturing challenges and scenarios.
• Develop learning objectives, assessments, design documents, and success criteria that drive performance improvement.
• Build multi-modal learning solutions, including:
• eLearning
• Instructor-Led Training (ILT)
• Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT)
• Videos and simulations
• Workshops
• Job aids and performance support tools
• Develop facilitator guides, scripts, communication materials, and standard work documentation that simplify complex technical concepts.

Collaboration & Project Management

• Partner with SMEs, Learning Program Managers, content writers, and manufacturing stakeholders to gather content and validate technical accuracy.
• Support project planning activities, including timelines, resources, dependencies, and development expectations.
• Manage projects using agile learning design approaches to respond to changing manufacturing priorities and launches.
• Support Learning Management System (LMS) setup and integration of learning materials, curricula, and supporting assets.

Qualifications – What You Bring (Must Haves)

• Portfolio required demonstrating:
• eLearning development
• ILT and VILT materials
• Scenario-based learning
• Action-based learning
• Performance support tools
• Bachelor's Degree in Instructional Design, Education, Organizational Development, Communications, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 4+ years of experience in instructional design, curriculum development, or eLearning development.
• Direct experience supporting manufacturing, operations, engineering, quality, safety, or other technical environments.
• Experience designing and developing web-based training (WBT) and instructor-led training (ILT).
• Strong knowledge of adult learning theory and instructional design methodologies.
• Proficiency with:
• Articulate
• Vyond
• Camtasia
• Adobe Creative Suite
• Microsoft Office
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical information into effective learning solutions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining quality and attention to detail.
• Excellent consulting, relationship-building, and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred Qualifications (Added Bonus)

• Experience supporting plant operations, manufacturing launches, or technical upskilling initiatives.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes, continuous improvement, and standardized work environments.
• Experience developing learning for:
• Safety systems
• Quality processes
• Troubleshooting
• Ergonomics
• Throughput improvements
• Lean Manufacturing initiatives
• Knowledge of GMS principles and regulated manufacturing environments.
• Graphic design, visual storytelling, or user-centered design experience.
• Strong facilitation skills for workshops and stakeholder sessions.
• Experience with:
• Action Mapping
• Design Thinking
• Scenario-based learning
• Branching learning design
• Experience working within large, matrixed organizations and cross-functional teams.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Statement

Reliance One, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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