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Instructional System Designer (Curriculum Architecture & Learning Solutions) 2026P-0172

12+ Months, Part-Time
Hybrid, Washington, DC
Posted 2 weeks ago

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Ascension LLC is seeking a high-performing Instructional System Designer to lead the design, development, and modernization of enterprise learning solutions in support of a federal client’s workforce development and leadership advancement initiatives.

This role is critical to shaping curriculum architecture across frontline, corporate, and leadership tiers, ensuring that learning programs are strategically aligned to mission outcomes, performance improvement, and measurable impact.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and hands-on designer who can translate complex organizational needs into structured, scalable learning experiences using proven methodologies such as ADDIE and SAM. This individual will serve as a key contributor to enhancing workforce capability, strengthening leadership pipelines, and improving training effectiveness across the enterprise.


Position Summary

The Instructional System Designer will be responsible for end-to-end instructional design and curriculum development, including needs assessment, learning objective definition, content design, modality selection, and evaluation planning.

This role requires a professional who is:

  • Highly organized and detail-oriented, capable of managing multiple curriculum tracks simultaneously
  • Self-driven and adaptable, able to operate in evolving environments with limited direction
  • Skilled at anticipating learning gaps, designing solutions, and aligning training with performance outcomes
  • Experienced in developing storyboards, learning paths, and blended learning solutions (eLearning, instructor-led, virtual, and hybrid)

The candidate will support the client by:

  • Designing structured learning pathways and curriculum frameworks
  • Translating business and operational requirements into effective training solutions
  • Leveraging tools and platforms such as Articulate, Adobe Creative Cloud, LMS platforms, and Microsoft 365 tools
  • Applying evaluation frameworks (e.g., Kirkpatrick) to measure effectiveness and continuous improvement

This role directly supports Ascension’s core capabilities in Training and Development Services, Human Capital Strategy, and Organizational Performance Improvement .


Key Responsibilities / Day-to-Day Activities

  • Design and develop end-to-end curriculum architecture aligned to organizational goals and workforce competencies
  • Conduct training needs assessments to identify skill gaps and performance improvement opportunities
  • Develop learning objectives, instructional strategies, and course structures using ADDIE and SAM methodologies
  • Create storyboards, scripts, and instructional materials for multiple delivery modalities (ILT, VILT, eLearning)
  • Build learning pathways for frontline staff, corporate personnel, and leadership tiers
  • Collaborate with SMEs and stakeholders to validate content accuracy and relevance
  • Develop interactive learning content using tools such as Articulate 360, Adobe Creative Cloud, and LMS platforms
  • Design and implement evaluation strategies (e.g., Kirkpatrick Levels 1–4) to assess training effectiveness
  • Support virtual training environments and learning management systems (LMS)
  • Conduct content reviews, updates, and continuous improvement cycles
  • Ensure all training materials meet accessibility (Section 508) and usability standards
  • Facilitate pilot sessions and incorporate feedback into curriculum refinement

Job Features

Job CategoryLearning & Development, Training
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSBachelor’s degree in Instructional Design, Education, Organizational Development, Human Capital, or related field | Excellent written and verbal communication skills | Ability to manage multiple deliverables within defined timelines
REQUIRED SKILLS5–8+ years of experience in instructional design, curriculum development, or learning experience design
TECHNICAL SKILLSDemonstrated experience applying ADDIE, SAM, or similar instructional design frameworks | Experience developing multi-modal learning solutions (eLearning, ILT, VILT, blended learning) | Proficiency with instructional design tools such as: Articulate 360 (Storyline/Rise), Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft 365 (PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint) | Experience working with Learning Management Systems (LMS) | Strong ability to translate business requirements into structured learning solutions
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONSMaster’s degree in Instructional Design, Education, Organizational Psychology, or related field | Certifications such as: ATD (CPTD or APTD), Certified Instructional Designer/Developer (CIDD), PMP or Agile certification (for structured delivery environments | Experience supporting federal agencies or government clients | Familiarity with: Kirkpatrick Model or other evaluation frameworks | UX/UI principles for learning experience design, Data analytics for measuring training effectiveness | Experience designing leadership development programs or competency-based training models | Knowledge of Section 508 compliance and accessibility standards
SUITABILITY/SECURITY REQUIREMENTSAbility to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

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