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Instructional Systems Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ARA

Instructional Systems Designer

Panama City, FL · On-site

ARA's Engineering Science Division (ESD) is seeking qualified instructional systems designer (ISD) candidates to support technical, operational, government, commercial, and workforce training ...

Leidos

Instructional Systems Designer

Chantilly, VA

$105K - $190K/yr

Instructional Systems Designer Shape the Future of Learning At Leidos, we solve some of the world's toughest challenges through innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence. Our teams deliver ...

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How much do instructional systems designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for instructional systems designer in the United States is $43.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.65 and $50.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by instructional systems designers when working on large-scale training projects?

Instructional Systems Designers often encounter challenges such as aligning diverse stakeholder expectations, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring content is both engaging and accessible to varied learner populations. Collaborating with subject matter experts (SMEs) can be complex, as SMEs may have limited availability or difficulty translating technical knowledge for instructional purposes. Additionally, adapting instructional strategies to fit different delivery formats (e.g., e-learning vs. instructor-led) requires flexibility and continuous communication with project teams.

What is an instructional systems designer?

Instructional Systems Designers (ISDs) are professionals who develop educational and training programs using systematic processes grounded in learning theory and instructional design models. They analyze learners' needs, define learning objectives, and design curriculum materials, activities, and assessments to ensure effective knowledge transfer. ISDs often work closely with subject matter experts and utilize various technologies to create engaging and accessible learning experiences. Their work can be found in corporate training, K-12 education, higher education, and government settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instructional systems designer?

Instructional Systems Designers need expertise in curriculum development, adult learning theory, and instructional design methodologies, usually supported by a degree in education or instructional design. Proficiency with e-learning authoring tools (such as Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate), Learning Management Systems (LMS), and often certification like CPLP or ATD are common. Strong project management, collaboration, and communication skills help them work effectively with subject matter experts and stakeholders. These skills are crucial to creating engaging, effective learning experiences that meet organizational goals and learner needs.

Are instructional systems designers still in demand?

Instructional Systems Designers are in demand due to the increasing need for effective training and e-learning solutions across industries. They often utilize tools like Learning Management Systems (LMS) and instructional design models such as ADDIE, with demand driven by growth in online education and corporate training programs.

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

AspectInstructional Systems DesignerInstructional Designer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Education, Instructional Design, or related field; often certifications in ADDIE or ISD modelsBachelor's or Master's in Education, Instructional Design, or related field; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning comprehensive training systems, often for large organizations or e-learning platformsCreating individual courses or training materials, often for corporate, academic, or online settings
Employer & IndustryUsed in corporate, government, and military sectors focusing on systematic training developmentCommon across education, corporate training, and e-learning industries

Instructional Systems Designers focus on developing complete training systems and curricula, while Instructional Designers typically create specific courses or training materials. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across various industries, but the ISD role emphasizes designing entire instructional systems.

Do instructional systems designers make a lot of money?

Instructional Systems Designers typically earn a median salary that is competitive within the education and training industry, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and employer. They often require skills in curriculum development, e-learning tools, and instructional design software, which can influence earning potential.
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Instructional Systems Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instructional Systems Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,151 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Instructional Systems Designer

Aviation Training Consulting LLC

Edmond, OK • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: Instructional Systems Designer
EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Regular
WORK STATUS: Full-Time
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
OCCUPATIONAL GROUP: Professional
REPORTS TO:
DIRECTLY SUPERVISES: None
Position Purpose:
The Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) supports federal or government clients by designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining instructional materials and learning systems that enhance workforce performance and ensure compliance with agency standards. This role also serves as a Learning Management System (LMS) Administrator and Technical Writer, responsible for managing training platforms, maintaining documentation, and producing clear, compliant technical materials in accordance with government regulations and contract requirements.
Essential Functions of the Position:
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required for a Instructional Systems Designer. This position requires familiarity with federal acquisition environments, compliance standards, accessibility guidelines (e.g., Section 508), and documentation best practices. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Conduct training needs assessments and performance analyses for federal programs
• Apply instructional design methodologies (ADDIE, SAM, Agile)
• Develop instructor-led, virtual, eLearning, and blended learning solutions
• Create instructional materials including:
o Facilitator guides
o Participant manuals
o Job aids
o Assessments and evaluation tools
o Ensure all materials meet Section 508 accessibility requirements
o Align training content with federal policies, directives, and compliance standards
o Support program audits and training documentation requirements
Learning Management System (LMS) Administration
• Administer and maintain LMS platforms (e.g., Cornerstone, Moodle, Blackboard, SuccessFactors, DoD systems, etc.)
• Manage user accounts, permissions, and system configurations
• Upload, test, and maintain course content (SCORM/AICC/xAPI compliant)
• Generate reports on training completion, compliance tracking, and metrics
• Troubleshoot system issues and coordinate with IT or vendors as needed
• Maintain data integrity and security in accordance with federal cybersecurity policies
• Support LMS upgrades, testing, and system migrations.
Technical Writing & Documentation
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including:
o Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
o User manuals
o Training guides
o System documentation
o Policy and compliance documentation
o Translate complex technical or regulatory information into clear, user-friendly materials
o Ensure documentation complies with federal formatting, branding, and style guidelines
o Support proposal development and contract deliverables as required
o Maintain version control and document repositories
Government Contracting Support
• Ensure deliverables meet contract requirements and performance work statements (PWS).
• Support contract reporting and quality assurance surveillance plans (QASP)
• Maintain documentation for audits and compliance reviews
• Collaborate with Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs), SMEs, and program stakeholders
• Adhere to federal information security and records management policies
• Other duties as assigned.
Requirements
Education and/or Experience :
The following are the requisite education and/or experience required to qualify for the position as a Instructional Systems Designer. Experience may substitute for education and experience on a two- for-one yearly basis.
  • Bachelor's degree in Instructional Design, Education, Technical Communication, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • Experience supporting federal or government contracts
  • Knowledge of ADDIE or other instructional design methodologies
  • Experience administering LMS platforms
  • Strong technical writing and editing skills
  • Familiarity with Section 508 accessibility compliance
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and documentation tools
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearance

EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled.

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