eLearning Instructional Systems Designer

OverviewSystems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted. The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.SPAs NATO Allied Command Transformation Group within JOID provides capability development, portfolio management, program management, quality management, cost estimation analysis, standardization, reporting, software solutions and information management, and capability management support. We also provide an improved capability requirements capture process, including the generation, documentation and tracing of user requirements, with appropriate technical scrutiny, over the entire lifecycle of the requirements from capability definition through capability realization and capability usage. We have a near-term need for an Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) eLearning to provide onsite support out of Norfolk, VA.ResponsibilitiesThe candidate will support the Learning Technology (LT) Section in the design, development, and continuous improvement of NATO education and training solutions. Working closely with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), NATO Nations, Partners, Entities, and other key stakeholders, the candidate will conduct comprehensive needs analyses and, when required, Training Needs Analyses (TNA) to identify learning gaps and requirements. Translate identified needs into clear, measurable learning objectives and design comprehensive course structures, including modules, lessons, instructional activities, and assessments. Using source materials provided by SMEs, develop engaging instructional content utilizing appropriate Instructional System Design (ISD) methodologies, including storyboard-based and rapid development approaches. Select and implement instructional strategies that address diverse learning needs and develop pre-assessments, formative assessments, and summative assessments to measure learner progress and course effectiveness. Responsibilities include establishing evaluation and feedback processes, analyzing learner and stakeholder input, and using results to continuously improve course content and delivery methods. Provide ISD support and quality assurance to NATO course providers, ensuring educational products and processes comply with applicable NATO standards and requirements. Prepare, facilitate, and evaluate instructor-led educational activities, workshops, and professional development events delivered in both virtual and residential environments. Engage directly with clients, SMEs, and project team members to ensure effective communication, timely delivery, and alignment with program objectives. The role will represent the Learning Technology Section at meetings, conferences, workshops, and other activities, while monitoring project progress and coordinating with stakeholders. The candidate will also research, evaluate, and recommend emerging learning technologies, instructional methodologies, and industry best practices to promote innovation within NATO education and training. International travel to NATO Education and Training Facilities is anticipated approximately two to three times per year.QualificationsRequired:Bachelor's degree in Education and Training Development or related programs which may include learning theory, educational psychology, instructional design and education evaluation or degree in the listed fields with 3+ years of experience as an instructional systems designer.3+ years of experience (within last 5 years) working with e-Learning development.Experience in communicating effectively with clients, SMEs, and stakeholders throughout the instructional design process.Experience using state-of-the-art e-learning authoring tools to develop SCORM compliant learning content.Experience developing content within Learning Management Systems (LMS), such as Moodle or equivalent platforms.Provide a portfolio demonstrating contributions to at least three e-learning projects. For each project, include up to three representative storyboards (to include screenshots of the fully developed course) showing course outline, course flow, and assessment strategy.Active NATO or National Secret security clearance.Valid NATO Nation passport with no travel restrictions to NATO nations.Able to work fully onsite based on clients needs.Desired:Master's degree in Education and Training Development or related programs which may include learning theory, educational psychology, instructional design and education evaluation.Pay Range InformationAt SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $100,000.00/Yr. - USD $130,000.00/Yr.Job SummaryID: 2026-23453Category: Software, Data Science, Analytics & ModelingSecurity Clearance Requirement: NATO Secret (NS)Type: Regular Full-TimeLevel: Mid-level