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Learning Design Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

The Learning Designer is a member of a course development team within the Sheridan Center for ... Plan and manage instructional design projects: online course development, related instructional ...

Learning Designer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$54K - $98K/yr

OVERVIEW Design and deliver impactful learning experiences that drive performance, engagement, and growth across our workforce. Collaborate with subject matter experts, peers, and business leaders to ...

Learning and Development Intern

Washington, PA · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

Learning & Development Internship Program Instructional Design Adult Learning Learning Operations PathWays is looking for an Intern to join our Learning & Development team and gain hands on ...

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Learning Design information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$26

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$67

How much do learning design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for learning design in Pittsburgh, PA is $39.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.70 and $51.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do instructional designers get paid well?

Instructional designers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. According to industry data, the median annual salary ranges from $60,000 to $80,000, with higher pay for those with advanced skills in e-learning tools and curriculum development. Many also benefit from opportunities for professional growth and certification.

What are some common challenges Learning Designers face when collaborating with subject matter experts?

Learning Designers often work closely with subject matter experts (SMEs) to develop effective educational materials. A frequent challenge is balancing the SME's in-depth knowledge with the need to present information in a clear, engaging, and accessible way for learners. Differences in communication styles or expectations can occur, so strong interpersonal skills and the ability to translate complex content into learner-friendly formats are essential. Building trust and maintaining open, respectful communication helps ensure successful collaboration and high-quality learning experiences.

Is AI replacing instructional designers?

AI is transforming aspects of instructional design by automating tasks like content generation and data analysis, but it does not replace instructional designers. These professionals are still essential for creating engaging, effective learning experiences, applying pedagogical expertise, and customizing content to learner needs. AI tools serve as aids to enhance efficiency but require human oversight and creative input from instructional designers.

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

To thrive as a Learning Designer, you need expertise in instructional design principles, curriculum development, and adult learning theories, often supported by a degree in education or instructional design. Familiarity with e-learning authoring tools (such as Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate), learning management systems (LMS), and sometimes certifications like CPLP or ATD are common requirements. Strong communication, creativity, and collaboration skills enable you to translate complex content into engaging learning experiences and work effectively with subject matter experts. These capabilities are critical for designing impactful educational programs that drive learner engagement and measurable outcomes.

What does a learning designer do?

A learning designer develops educational materials, curricula, and experiences to facilitate effective learning. They analyze learner needs, design instructional strategies, and often use tools like e-learning platforms or authoring software to create engaging content. Strong skills in instructional design, curriculum development, and understanding of learning theories are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Learning Design vs Instructional Designer?

AspectLearning DesignInstructional Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in education, instructional design, or related fieldsOften requires similar degrees and certifications in instructional design or education technology
Work EnvironmentDesigns learning experiences across various platforms, including e-learning, classroom, and blended formatsDevelops instructional materials and courses, often collaborating with subject matter experts
Industry UsageUsed broadly in education, corporate training, and e-learning sectorsCommonly used in corporate training, higher education, and e-learning industries

Learning Design and Instructional Designer roles overlap significantly, focusing on creating effective learning experiences. Learning Design often emphasizes the overall planning and structure of learning programs, while Instructional Designers focus more on developing specific instructional materials. Both roles require similar qualifications and are integral to education and training sectors.

What is learning design?

Learning design is the process of planning, structuring, and creating educational experiences to help learners achieve specific outcomes. It involves analyzing learners' needs, defining objectives, developing instructional materials, and selecting appropriate teaching methods and technologies. Learning designers collaborate with subject matter experts and use evidence-based strategies to ensure content is engaging, accessible, and effective. Their work can be applied in schools, universities, corporate training, and online education environments.

Are learning designers in demand?

Learning designers are in increasing demand as organizations focus on effective training and e-learning solutions. They often require skills in instructional design, curriculum development, and familiarity with tools like Articulate or Adobe Captivate, making their expertise valuable across education, corporate training, and technology sectors.
Infographic showing various Learning Design job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,178 per year, or $39.5 per hour.
Learning Designer

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Brown University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description:

About Brown:

Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.

Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more. To learn about Brown University's benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page for further information.

About the Opportunity:

The Learning Designer is a member of a course development team within the Sheridan Center for Teaching and Learning whose work focuses on designing and developing high quality online learning experiences. This position will collaborate with faculty to create inclusively designed online courses for new, online graduate degree programs.

At the Sheridan Center for Teaching and Learning, the successful candidate for this hybrid-eligible position will be joining a team of educational developers with diverse perspectives and experiences who are each committed to educational excellence, equity, and access at Brown. Staff within this vibrant center thrive on interdisciplinary collaboration, genuine curiosity, and evidence-based, reflective practices.
Responsibilities:

The focus of this position is supporting faculty in the development of courses by applying knowledge of learning sciences research, design methodologies, and expertise with learning technologies to the vision of a large portfolio of programs and courses. Other responsibilities include developing and delivering resource materials, workshops and presentations to support faculty's digital pedagogy; documenting and sharing course development benchmarks, outcomes and metrics for success; solving high-level problems as faculty employ instructional design & technology methods; piloting new technological and pedagogical strategies; and collaborating with diverse campus groups to support online teaching and learning.

In this role, candidates can expect to:

  • Provide 1-1 consultation to assigned faculty on the use of instructional technologies, pedagogical strategies, and learning principles throughout design-implementation cycles.
  • Plan and manage instructional design projects: online course development, related instructional initiatives.
  • Facilitate the development and review process associated with educational media asset creation and quality assurance and usability testing.
  • Collaborate with other members of the team, including design, media, and technology professionals, to ensure that courses are developed on time and in scope.


Salary Grade:

10

Additional Information:

Applicants are asked to respond to three questions, in lieu of a cover letter, and include them with their CV in a single PDF or Word file:

  • Why are you interested in working as a Learning Designer at the Sheridan Center for Teaching and Learning?
  • What professional experiences would you draw on to fulfill the primary responsibilities for this role, as described in the job posting?
  • Please describe 2-3 examples where you have demonstrated one (or more) of the skills listed in the qualifications for this role, as described in the job posting.

The successful candidate is expected to work on Brown's Providence campus for a minimum of two days per week with the flexibility to work remotely on other days. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Qualifications:


Education and Experience

  • Master's degree in learning sciences, education, or related field, or equivalent education and experience.
  • 3-5 years of experience in instructional design and/or online course design in higher education required.
  • At least 1 year supporting faculty with designing new fully-online asynchronous online programs (for positions on the Digital Learning & Design online team) or at least 1 year of supporting faculty with designing in multi-modal programs including blended, noncredit, in-person and online (for the Digital Learning & Design design team) required.
  • Postsecondary teaching and/or training experience required.
  • Experience applying adult learning theory and learning design methodologies to a learning experience, required.
  • Experience applying project management methodology to effectively leading instructional projects, required

Job Competencies

  • Proven ability to understand and implement fundamental instructional design methodologies.
  • Strong relational skills, and proven ability to communicate effectively (written and oral) to an audience with diverse backgrounds, roles, and varied responsibilities.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment where services are in high demand and new initiatives introduced routinely.
  • Deep knowledge of instructional alignment and learning outcomes development.
  • Proficiency in enterprise technologies including Canvas and other LTIs
  • Ability to apply problem-solving skills, perform analyses and seek solutions for continuous improvement.
  • Proficiency in coordinating and managing the course design process
  • Ability to work independently, handle multiple projects and meet deadlines and project plans effectively.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team that is positioned within a cross-functional unit.
  • Ability to effectively follow process and make flexible decisions while interacting with stakeholders to reach project deliverables
  • Proficiency in coding (HTML5, CSS, JavaScript), preferred
  • Proficiency with visual design using design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, PowerPoint, Google Suite and other software used for developing engaging training experience, preferred.

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date:

2026-05-27

Job Posting Title:

Learning Designer

Department:

Teaching and Learning/Sheridan Center

Grade:

Grade 10

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Hybrid


Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C. All remote work must be performed in a state in which Brown is registered to do business.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.


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