Instructional Designer I

Instructional Designer I Professional Staff, Full Time, 12‑Month Position on the Portland campus of the University of New England. Position Overview The Instructional Designer I (ID1) performs a variety of instructional design functions related to planning, developing, and delivering engaging learning experiences through online platforms. The ID1 works with instructional technology tools to design interactive learning content, researches instructional design theories and technologies for their applicability to learning, and develops or updates courses, instructional materials, and other digital learning resources consistent with adult learning theory for online delivery. The ID1 is responsible for continuous, incremental improvement of all assigned online courses to maximize student engagement and learning, facilitate excellent online teaching, and advance the University’s goal of providing world‑class online education. The position offers hybrid, flexible work options and requires attendance at on‑campus meetings and workdays. Benefits Overview Multiple health and dental plan options, plus vision coverage. Up to 8% retirement plan match. Generous leave time, including vacation, sick, personal time and 12+ holidays per year. Educational benefits: UNE tuition waiver for employees, spouses and domestic partners; tuition waiver for dependents after 1 year of full‑time service; 50% tuition reduction if less than 1 year of full‑time service. Responsibilities Content Creation, Course Management and Course Maintenance Collaborate with course stakeholders to create and manage engaging instructional activities, materials, and media using instructional design theories and best practices. Propose course improvements based on analysis of existing courses, consulting with stakeholders on design, learning objectives, activities, and evaluation methods. Prepare courses within the Learning Management System each term, including: Update syllabi (policies, descriptions, grading policies). Create course schedules and support information. Develop and build learning modules (overviews, objectives, materials, assessments). Set up multimedia resources and gradebooks. Conduct quality assurance reviews, functionality testing, and facilitate course approval per College’s quality guidelines. Maintain live courses throughout the semester, responding quickly to faculty or student concerns. Conduct functionality testing, including that of integrated and non‑integrated third‑party platforms. Project and Time Management and Collaboration Develop project timelines for course revisions under guidance from Director of Learning Experience. Ensure that projects are delivered on time and meet high‑quality standards. Attend and lead regularly scheduled meetings with course stakeholders to discuss instructional design, update timelines, construct or revise learning activities, and review materials in progress. Faculty and Student Support Maintain active courses throughout the semester, responding promptly to faculty or student concerns. Support faculty in using course management tools, such as monitoring student engagement, managing discussion forums, maintaining the gradebook, and providing feedback. Compliance and Additional Responsibilities Ensure adherence to the University’s intellectual property guidelines. Ensure ADA compliance in online and distance learning environments. Recommend potential instructional tools, media, and approaches to enhance teaching and learning. Perform other duties as assigned to contribute to a collaborative and innovative learning environment. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in instructional design, curriculum development, education, pedagogy, or a related field with substantial coursework or research in relevant areas. Two to five years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Demonstrated knowledge of instructional design principles, online learning best practices, course development processes, assessment strategies, and adult learning theory. Experience applying instructional design models, including backward design, to develop effective learning experiences. Experience designing, developing, and maintaining online courses, instructional materials, tutorials, and technology user guides. Familiarity with online teaching and learning practices in higher education or corporate environments and experience with Learning Management Systems (LMS). Strong technical skills, including experience troubleshooting technology issues and collaborating with technology support providers. Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, subject matter experts, and stakeholders. Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and creative thinking skills with the ability to evaluate processes and recommend improvements. Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and evolving technologies. Ability to motivate, instruct, and support others while working effectively as part of a team. Demonstrated interest in researching, evaluating, and applying emerging online learning technologies and instructional approaches. EEO Statement Consistent with federal and state law and University policy, the University of New England is committed to the fundamental concept of equal opportunity for all of the members of the University community. The University prohibits, and will not tolerate, discrimination in employment, the provision of academic services or in any other area of University life based on race, color, sex, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, ethnicity, genetic information, HIV status, or status as a veteran. Prohibited bias factors should not motivate decisions regarding students, employees, applicants for admission, applicants for employment, contractors, volunteers or participants in and/or users of institutional programs, services, and activities. Vaccination Statement Employees in clinical settings must meet the State of Maine’s immunization requirements for clinical activity. Additional Note This position is not eligible for H‑1B visa sponsorship. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of New England