Instructional Designer

Instructional Designer

The Instructional Designer will provide support, training, consultation, and instructional design assistance to faculty developing distance learning courses and in the use of instructional technologies for teaching and learning. Applying current research in areas of instructional design, learning theory, and innovative instructional technologies, this position will collaborate with faculty, subject matter experts (SME), and other campus stakeholders in the design and development of instructional materials for distance learning courses. This position will lead and collaborate with faculty partners to facilitate faculty development initiatives, training sessions, and consultations for faculty related to teaching and learning with technology. Finally, this position will provide project management for distance learning course development, technical and design expertise within the Learning Management System (LMS), and support for the enhancement and advancement of quality distance learning initiatives at GRCC.

Essential Functions

• Collaborate with faculty and teams in the design and development of distance learning courses in a wide array of disciplines
• Facilitate the enhancement of existing distance learning curriculum and digital instructional materials with a focus on quality, effective instructional design, universal design, and accessibility
• Lead distance course quality support and compliance initiatives including course development, faculty peer review, and ADA accessibility compliance in course design
• Manage systems related to distance learning course design, including partnering with faculty on the development and maintenance of course blueprints and templates, and documentation of distance course reviews
• Lead in creating, coordinating, and facilitating workshops and seminars for faculty and staff in quality instructional design and the effective use of instructional technologies in teaching and learning
• Facilitate the design, development, and integration of multimedia support materials for use in courses across modalities, ensuring these materials are compliant with ADA and WCAG accessibility guidance
• Assist in the development of policies and procedures for instructional design and course development for distance learning
• Evaluate emerging technologies, methods, and trends in teaching and learning. Share new knowledge with faculty and staff
• Apply technical expertise to assist faculty in solving instructional problems and implementing innovative teaching strategies
• Contribute expertise to college teams related to teaching and learning, compliance, and other relevant committees
• Partner with faculty on to enhance course design, leverage LMS tools, and other instructional technologies, and apply design frameworks including Universal Design for Learning
• Communicate, collaborate, and coordinate with Instructional Support and Institutional Planning staff to document distance learning course reviews and related information
• Collaborate with Information Technology, Library Services, Media Technologies, and other areas relative to the needs of the distance learning
• Promote TLDE department initiatives, programs, and support across the College
• Regular attendance during normal scheduled hours is required. Being present is essential for serving customers and performing the essential functions of this position
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Job Specifications

Educational Credentials

• Bachelor's degree in education, instructional design, or a closely related field with online teaching experience required
• Master's degree in Education or related field is preferred

Work Experience

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in the design and development of instructional materials, online and hybrid courses, and distance learning based curriculum
• Teaching experience with online and hybrid courses strongly preferred
• Knowledgeable in effective pedagogy, learning theories, and instructional design with a focus on quality online course design and development
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Ability to collaborate with faculty and staff, in a courteous and helpful manner
• Knowledge and experience in using a wide variety of software and hardware tools related to authoring, courseware design, and web development for developing digital course materials
• Experience teaching, training, and using learning management systems (Canvas experience preferred) to develop and design quality courses
• Knowledge and experience in use and application of quality rubrics (Quality Matters, preferred) for effective online course design and delivery
• Knowledge in project management skills to plan, design, and review distance learning course design

Skills

• Ability to design high quality distance learning courses
• Digital design experience and ability to collaborate and use feedback to enhance design
• Ability to create, edit, and evaluate video quality for adult learning
• Strong interpersonal skills, able to collaborate with faculty and staff in a thoughtful and helpful manner
• Project management skills to coordinate review process of distance learning courses and other initiatives related to course development and TLDE programming
• Knowledge and experience in use and application of quality rubrics (Quality Matters, preferred) for effective online course design and delivery.
• Proficiency with instructional technologies and awareness of emerging educational trends in distance education
• Strong verbal, written, and digital communication skills

Physical Demands

• The position requires long periods of sitting, standing, reading, writing, listening and speaking
• Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds

Mental Demands

• Ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical people
• Must be proficient in verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills to work effectively with people of diverse ages, ethnic, sexual orientation and socio-economic backgrounds
• Ability to provide training and speak publicly
• Maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and ethical standards
• Must be self-motivated and resourceful, demonstrating initiative and strong problem-solving abilities
• Excellent organizational skills, ability to prioritize, and complete tasks in a timely manner
• Demonstrated ability to maintain positive interpersonal relationships and work effectively as a member of a team
• Project a professional image, including punctuality and good attendance record

Working Conditions

• Ability to function effectively as a member of a team in a multi-person, service-oriented department
• Occasional work outside of normal business hours
• GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website

Benefits

• Health Coverage: Six health insurance plan options, including one with no health insurance premiums.
• Time off: Enjoy substantial vacation time.
• Wellness Program: Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, and an onsite gym membership.
• Continuous Learning: Career development and educational opportunities.
• Retirement Plans: Secure your future with our retirement options including a state retirement plan.

Next Steps / Application Process

• Please complete an application: Submit a cover letter and resume.
• The opportunity to apply for this position will close at the end of the day on the close date referenced at the top of this job posting.
• Grand Rapids Community College is an equal opportunity employer. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Nondiscrimination Statement

Grand Rapids Community College creates an inclusive learning and working environment that recognizes the value and dignity of each person. It is the policy and practice of GRCC to provide equal educational and employment opportunities regardless of age, race, color, religion, marital status, sex/gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, height, weight, national origin, disability, political affiliation, familial status, veteran status or genetics in all programs, activities, services, employment and advancement including admissions to, access to, treatment in, or compensation in employment as required by state and federal law. GRCC is committed to reviewing all aspects of GRCC programs, activities, services and employment, including recruitment, selection, retention and promotion to identify and eliminate barriers in order to prevent discrimination on the basis of the listed protected characteristics. The college will not tolerate any form of retaliation against any person for bringing charges of discrimination or participating in an investigation. Further information may be obtained from the EEO Office or the Office of General Counsel, 143 Bostwick Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3295.