Protect our Land, Ascend with Us!

Ascension LLC is seeking an experienced Project Manager & Lead Instructional Designer to lead and deliver mission-critical training and learning solutions in support of government clients. This role is central to the successful execution of the engagement and serves as both the operational lead and the instructional authority for training initiatives tied to workforce readiness, program transformation, systems adoption, or policy implementation.

The ideal candidate is someone who thrives at the intersection of project delivery, instructional design leadership, and client engagement. This individual must be capable of translating complex program requirements, policies, or systems into structured, accessible, and effective learning solutions while managing schedules, risks, stakeholders, and deliverables.

This role is critical to ensuring that training programs are delivered on time, within scope, compliant with federal standards, and aligned with the client’s strategic goals. Candidates should have experience in regulated or public-sector environments and be comfortable operating with a high degree of accountability and visibility.

Summary of the Contractor Role

The Project Manager & Lead Instructional Designer is responsible for end-to-end ownership of training and instructional design efforts, from initial planning and requirements analysis through curriculum development, delivery, and continuous improvement.

This role supports customer needs by:

• Ensuring training initiatives are well-planned, properly resourced, and executed using disciplined project management practices
• Designing instructional solutions that are learner-centered, outcomes-driven, and compliant with accessibility and government standards
• Serving as a trusted advisor to the client by anticipating challenges, mitigating risks, and aligning training strategies to program objectives

The ideal candidate brings strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to operate effectively in environments where requirements may evolve. This individual is expected to be self-directed, comfortable managing multiple priorities, and skilled at problem-solving and stakeholder coordination.

To be successful, the candidate must leverage tools and processes such as Microsoft 365, SharePoint, virtual learning platforms, structured project plans, risk registers, instructional design frameworks (such as ADDIE), and quality assurance methodologies.

Position Day-to-Day Activities

Support user adoption and change management efforts tied to training initiatives

Lead and manage instructional design and training projects from initiation through closeout

Develop and maintain project plans, schedules, milestones, and delivery timelines

Coordinate instructional designers, subject matter experts, facilitators, and client stakeholders

Conduct training needs assessments and translate requirements into learning objectives

Design and oversee development of instructor-led training, virtual training, blended learning, and job aids

Apply adult learning principles and instructional design methodologies to all training products

Ensure all training materials meet Section 508 and accessibility requirements

Facilitate design reviews, pilot sessions, and stakeholder working sessions

Track risks, issues, and dependencies and implement mitigation strategies

Prepare and deliver project status reports, briefings, and training documentation