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Instructional System Designer Jobs in California

Instructional Designer

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$65 - $67/hr

... process, and systems. * Define learning objectives, course structure, learning content and ... Bachelor's degree * 4+ years of instructional designer experience * Strong ILT design skills and ...

Instructional Designer

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

Instructional Designer About KBS Kellermeyer Bergensons Services (KBS) is the largest privately ... Experience with Workday Learning or other learning management systems. KBS considers all applicants ...

Instructional Designer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$99K - $147K/yr

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... ABOUT THE JOB Anduril Industries is seeking an experienced Instructional Designer to create ...

PG&E is looking for an Instructional Designer to design, develop, and update technical training ... Conduct detailed content and task analysis for the target audience, business processes, and systems

Instructional Designer

Costa Mesa, CA

$69K - $94K/yr

ABOUT THE JOB Anduril Industries is seeking an experienced Instructional Designer to create ... Experience working with defense, aerospace, or technical systems and translating engineering ...

Instructional Designer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$96K - $121K/yr

The Instructional Designer is a part of the Learning team and is responsible for leading a content ... Create highly effective interactive content using appropriate authoring systems and software ...

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Instructional System Designer information

See California salary details

$22

$43

$93

How much do instructional system designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for instructional system designer in California is $43.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.22 and $49.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an instructional system designer do?

An Instructional System Designer (ISD) is responsible for analyzing learning needs and creating educational programs, courses, or training materials that effectively teach specific skills or knowledge. They use instructional design models, such as ADDIE, to develop, implement, and evaluate instructional materials for a variety of settings, including corporate, academic, and government environments. Their work often involves collaborating with subject matter experts, utilizing technology, and applying best practices in adult learning to ensure that learning objectives are met.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instructional system designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Instructional System Designer, you need expertise in instructional design principles, curriculum development, and adult learning theories, typically supported by a degree in education, instructional design, or a related field. Familiarity with e-learning authoring tools (such as Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate), learning management systems (LMS), and sometimes relevant certifications like CPLP or ATD are important. Strong project management, communication, and collaboration skills help you work effectively with subject matter experts and stakeholders. These skills ensure the creation of engaging, effective learning experiences that meet organizational objectives and learner needs.

What are some common challenges instructional system designers face when collaborating with subject matter experts (SMEs)?

Instructional System Designers often work closely with subject matter experts (SMEs) to ensure course content is accurate and effective. A common challenge is translating complex or highly technical information from SMEs into clear, engaging learning materials suitable for the target audience. Effective communication, patience, and the ability to ask clarifying questions are essential for bridging the gap between content expertise and instructional design best practices. Building strong relationships and setting clear expectations early can help facilitate smoother collaboration and produce better learning outcomes.

What is the difference between Instructional System Designer vs Instructional Designer?

AspectInstructional System DesignerInstructional Designer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Education, Instructional Design, or related field; certifications like CPT or ATDBachelor's or Master's in Education, Instructional Design, or related field; certifications like CPT or ATD
Work EnvironmentCorporate, government, or military training programs; e-learning developmentEducational institutions, corporate training, e-learning development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in organizations developing complex instructional systems and curriculaCommon in schools, universities, and corporate training departments

Instructional System Designers focus on developing comprehensive instructional systems, often involving analysis, design, and implementation of complex training programs. Instructional Designers typically create educational content and courses, often in simpler formats. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but Instructional System Designers usually handle more complex, system-wide projects.

Are instructional system designers still in demand?

Instructional system designers are in steady demand due to the increasing need for effective training and e-learning solutions across industries. They often work with learning management systems (LMS) and instructional design models like ADDIE, with demand driven by growth in online education, corporate training, and technology integration.
Infographic showing various Instructional System Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,958 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Instructional Systems Designer

DirectViz Solutions

Petaluma, CA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

DirectViz Solutions (DVS) is a dynamic and rapidly growing government contractor committed to delivering innovative IT solutions that address the mission-critical needs of our government clients. Through the expertise and dedication of our talented team, we provide cutting-edge technology services designed to achieve success and exceed expectations.

At DVS, we prioritize our employees as our greatest asset. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive medical benefits, a 401(k) match, generous PTO accrual, professional development reimbursement, corporate-funded technology certifications, and robust employee recognition and appreciation programs.

DVS is actively seeking an Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) to support our team in Petaluma, CA.

Job Summary:

The Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) shall provide instructions design and development support in accordance with client-specific requirements and standard operating procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide design documents in accordance with SOPs and other requirements as specified in the task order under this contract.
  • Prepare storyboards and/or outlines for content development in accordance with SOPs and other requirements as defined in the task order under this contract.
  • Select appropriate delivery methods and media to support development of human performance and testing of competencies.
  • Prepare and structure tests and practical application exercises so these are reliable indicators that a learned has learned to perform the tasks identified in the objectives.
  • Perform formative and summative evaluations, including pilot studies.
  • Revise versions in accordance with feedback from reviews and data obtained in pilot testing.
  • Develop plans for piloting training experiences developed under task orders.
  • Develop reports of pilot studies usable in finalizing the training products.
  • Participate in reviews.
  • Ensure work and processes conform to TRASYS SOPs, standards, and other requirements stipulated in task orders under this contract.
  • Members shall demonstrate effective communication, collaboration, and teamwork with all government and contract team members.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

  • Work independently or as part of a team to complete assigned tasks.
  • Oversee the successful completion of ISD projects in accordance with Training System Standard Operating Procedures and Training Center specific policies.
  • ISD professionals shall work effectively in a team environment.

Required Qualifications:

  • A master's degree in Instructional Systems, Instructional Systems Technology, Instructional & Performance Technology, or Education (with a concentration in Educational Technology) preferred, or five years' documented experience in a related field may be substituted for the educational requirement.
  • Must possess a minimum of two years' experience using the Instructional Systems Development (ISD) process in the development of courses and training interventions.
  • Must be proficient in using the following software applications: Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and computer graphics programs.
  • Task Orders under this contract may include physical requirements related to the work to be conducted, especially those at Government facilities or on vessels and platforms, persons conducting the task orders must be able to physically observe performance and climb ladders and/or other physical requirements associated with the work environment.
  • Successful SSBI background investigation (required).
  • Must submit resume and OF-306.

Physical and Mental Qualifications:

  • Maintain focus and awareness throughout scheduled working hours.
  • Perform tasks requiring prolonged periods of sitting or standing at a desk, utilizing a computer, mouse, and keyboard.
  • Lift and move objects weighing up to 15 pounds as needed.
  • Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a strong command of the English language.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively as part of a team.
  • Quickly learn and retain routine tasks and processes.
  • Possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, business correspondence proficiency, and self-management capabilities.
  • Perform the essential functions of the role satisfactorily; reasonable accommodation will be provided for employees with disabilities upon request.
  • Accept and adapt to additional responsibilities or changes to assigned duties as determined by DirectViz Solutions (DVS).

If you thrive on solving complex problems and building meaningful connections, we'd love to hear from you. Join our team and make an impact today!

DirectViz Solutions, LLC (DVS) is an equal opportunity employer who prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, , sex (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.

DVS has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, threats, coercion, discrimination, and intimidation. Employees may file a complaint or exercise any right protected by Executive Order 11246, Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, Section 4212 of the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, or the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998.