Instructional Systems Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital learning, the role of instructional systems specialists is more crucial than ever.

As educational technology advances, the demand for skilled individuals who can design, develop, and maintain our instructional systems is growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an instructional systems specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the crux of this role,
• A hiring manager in search of the perfect candidate,
• Or just fascinated by the intricacies of instructional systems,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we are presenting a versatile instructional systems specialist job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Instructional Systems Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional Systems Specialists focus on the design and implementation of educational programs and teaching materials.

Their primary duty is to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of instructional systems by providing practical solutions.

They are responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

• Analyze learning needs and goals of the organization or institution
• Develop instructional material, including courses, lesson plans, and teaching aids
• Apply educational theory and methodology to instructional design
• Conduct instructional research and analysis on learners and contexts
• Collaborate with subject matter experts to identify target audience’s training needs
• Develop assessments to measure learner’s comprehension of the material
• Design, develop, and implement instructional technology systems
• Evaluate the effectiveness of instructional programs and materials
• Provide recommendations for improvements and modifications
• Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in instructional systems technology and education

 

Instructional Systems Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a detail-oriented Instructional Systems Specialist to design, develop, and implement educational programs.

The Instructional Systems Specialist’s responsibilities include analyzing learning needs, developing learning objectives, and creating content that aligns with these objectives.

Our ideal candidate has a thorough understanding of instructional design theories and learning principles.

The role of the Instructional Systems Specialist is to build effective, engaging, and high-quality learning experiences that meet the needs of our learners.

 

Responsibilities

• Analyze learning needs and partner with subject matter experts to provide input for course content.
• Develop learning objectives and ensure content aligns with defined objectives.
• Design and develop educational programs, instructional materials, and training manuals.
• Implement feedback from program reviews and modify content as needed.
• Conduct instructional research and analysis on learners and contexts.
• Apply tested instructional design theories, practices and methods.
• Provide exercises and activities that enhance the learning process.
• Create supporting material/media (audio, video, simulations, role plays, games etc).
• Decide on the criteria used to judge learner’s performance and develop assessment instruments.
• Keep up-to-date on learning tools, trends, and ideas.

 

Qualifications

• Proven working experience in instructional design and with instructional technology.
• Excellent knowledge of learning theories and instructional design models.
• Lesson and curriculum planning skills.
• Solid knowledge of course development software and at least one Learning Management System.
• Visual design skills (Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Illustrator) and ability to storyboard.
• Ability to write effective copy, instructional text, audio scripts/video scripts.
• BA/BS or MA degree in instructional design, educational technology or similar.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Instructional Systems Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or educational research.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Instructional Design.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Instructional Systems Specialist Do?

Instructional Systems Specialists typically work in the education sector, corporate environments or governmental agencies, but they can also work as independent consultants.

Their key role is to design, develop, implement and evaluate instructional systems and educational programs.

This may range from e-learning courses to training materials and programs for different age groups and industries.

They often work closely with teachers, professors, trainers or other educational professionals to identify gaps in learning and to develop strategies to improve educational outcomes.

Instructional Systems Specialists also conduct needs assessments to determine the type of learning system that is most appropriate.

They create instructional materials, coordinate educational content and integrate emerging instructional technologies.

In addition, they may be involved in the training and supervision of staff, guiding them on how to use the new systems or programs.

Ultimately, the Instructional Systems Specialist is responsible for ensuring that the developed instructional systems are effective in enhancing learning and meet the needs of the specific audience.

They do this by continuously monitoring, assessing and updating the systems as necessary.

 

Instructional Systems Specialist Qualifications and Skills

Instructional Systems Specialists utilize a mix of technical skills, communication abilities, and educational knowledge to design and implement instructional systems.

The following are some key qualifications and skills for this role:

• Strong understanding of instructional design principles and learning theories to develop effective educational systems.
• Excellent analytical skills to assess current educational systems, identify gaps, and propose improvements.
• Technical expertise in educational technology to design, implement, and manage e-learning platforms and other instructional systems.
• Exceptional communication skills to work effectively with educators, administrators, and other stakeholders, and to clearly explain and train others on the use of new systems.
• Project management skills to oversee the development and implementation of instructional systems, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and troubleshoot any issues that arise with the instructional systems.
• Ability to keep up with the latest trends in educational technology and instructional design, and apply this knowledge to the continuous improvement of the instructional systems.

 

Instructional Systems Specialist Experience Requirements

Instructional Systems Specialists typically need to have at least 2 to 3 years of experience in designing and implementing educational programs or related experiences.

This can be gained through roles such as curriculum developer, educational consultant, or instructional designer.

Entry-level Instructional Systems Specialists are often graduates from relevant programs such as instructional design, education, or related fields.

They may have gained practical experience through internships or capstone projects in designing, implementing, and evaluating instructional materials and programs.

Mid-level Instructional Systems Specialists, with around 3 to 5 years of experience, are expected to have a deeper understanding of instructional theories and models, and be able to apply them independently in different contexts.

They might also have experience with various instructional design tools and technology.

Senior-level Instructional Systems Specialists, with more than 5 years of experience, often have experience managing projects and leading teams.

They are expected to have expertise in strategic planning, project management, and advanced instructional design principles.

They may also have experience consulting with stakeholders, assessing needs, and developing customized instructional systems solutions.

 

Instructional Systems Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Instructional Systems Specialists typically require a bachelor’s degree in instructional design, education, or a related field.

Their education often includes a focus on understanding theories of learning and instructional design, curriculum development, assessment strategies, and educational technology.

To further enhance their skills, many specialists also pursue a master’s degree in instructional design or a similar discipline.

This advanced degree allows them to delve deeper into research and the practical application of instructional design theories.

Although not always required, obtaining a certification in instructional design or a related field can demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to professional development and mastery of the field.

Examples of relevant certifications include Certified Instructional Designer/Developer or Certified Technology Specialist.

In addition to formal education, practical experience in developing and implementing instructional programs, preferably in an educational or corporate setting, is often required.

This experience aids in understanding the practical challenges and solutions associated with effective instruction delivery.

A strong understanding of technology and software related to instructional design such as Learning Management Systems (LMS), e-learning software, and multimedia authoring tools is also crucial in this role.

 

Instructional Systems Specialist Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Instructional Systems Specialist is around $77,272 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, level of education, and geographical location.

 

Instructional Systems Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Instructional Systems Specialist need?

Instructional Systems Specialists need strong analytical and problem-solving skills to assess educational systems and devise effective solutions.

They should also have excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with various stakeholders, including educators, administrators, and software vendors.

A background in instructional design or educational technology is often required, along with the ability to use various learning management systems and digital tools.

 

Do Instructional Systems Specialists need a degree?

Most employers require an Instructional Systems Specialist to have a bachelor’s degree in education, instructional design, educational technology, or a related field.

Some may even require a master’s degree.

Practical experience in teaching, curriculum development, or instructional design can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in an Instructional Systems Specialist resume?

When reviewing resumes, look for a solid background in instructional design or educational technology.

Experience with learning management systems, e-learning software, and other related tools is also important.

Check for evidence of problem-solving skills, such as specific examples where the applicant improved a learning system or created a successful instructional design strategy.

 

What qualities make a good Instructional Systems Specialist?

A good Instructional Systems Specialist is innovative, able to develop creative solutions for complex educational challenges.

They should be organized and detail-oriented, able to manage multiple projects and ensure that all systems meet the needs of learners and educators.

Good interpersonal skills are also important, as Instructional Systems Specialists often work with diverse teams and must be able to effectively communicate their ideas.

 

What are the daily duties of an Instructional Systems Specialist?

Instructional Systems Specialists typically spend their days analyzing current educational systems, designing new instructional strategies, and implementing these strategies within the learning environment.

They may collaborate with educators to develop curriculum, work with IT professionals to implement new technology, or train staff on how to use new systems.

They also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of instructional systems, making adjustments as necessary.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look at what it really means to be an Instructional Systems Specialist.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about designing educational systems.

It’s about shaping the future of learning, one instructional system at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive Instructional Systems Specialist job description template and authentic examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why halt your journey here?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your essential resource for crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Each instructional system is a part of a larger educational canvas.

Let’s shape the future of learning. Together.

How to Become an Instructional Systems Specialist (Complete Guide)

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