E-Learning Instructional Designer

Toronto Zoo•Toronto, ON

About The Position

The Toronto Zoo is seeking a creative and detail-oriented contract E-learning Instructional Designer to join our Talent Development team. This individual will be responsible for the end-to-end design, writing and development of e-learning and related digital learning assets aligned to our Zoo’s strategic goals and divisional requirements. Using best-practice instructional design principles, needs analysis consultation, course authoring and adult learning theories, the successful candidate will translate complex information into engaging, interactive and accessible learning experiences that will enhance employee knowledge, skills and engagement. This role also includes structured intake and needs analysis skills to confirm when e-learning is the right solution and to escalate recommendations when necessary to ensure appropriate learning applications are implemented. This role requires the ability to work independently, manage priorities and delivery build-ready outputs within agreed timelines in a part-time capacity. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Requirements

Post-secondary education in Instructional Design, Adult Education, Learning and Development, Curriculum Development, EdTech or equivalent education and experience.
Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in designing and developing learning solutions in an organizational setting with a focus on e-learning development.
Demonstrated ability to complete end-to-end e-learning development (from structured intake to publishing).
Proven experience in designing and developing corporate training programs and materials.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create clear, engaging content.
Excellent research skills.
Strong project management skills and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
Experience with virtual and blended learning environments.
Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems, including Microsoft Office 365.
Experience with Articulate Storyline, Prezi, PowerPoint, or other content authoring tools.
Strong understanding of instructional design models such as ADDIE, SAM, or Bloom’s Taxonomy.
Experience working with LMS platforms and SCORM/xAPI standards.
Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Familiarity with design thinking or human centered design as applied to learning.
Must be extremely organized and capable of working with minimal supervision.
Able to ensure confidentiality and discretion in the handling of varying HR matters.
Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills.
Must have a working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation.
Must be able to work weekends and holidays.
Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
Capable of meeting the physical demands of the position.

Responsibilities

Design and develop interactive e-learning from intake to launch (analysis, design, storyboard/scripting, building, QA and publish).
Write clear, concise, and learner centered content for online training, ensuring information is accurate, accessible, and aligned with instructional design principles.
Build courses using authoring tools (i.e. Articulate Storyline/Rise, Camtasia, Canva, Adobe Captivate, etc.), being able to use basic multimedia integration of video, audio, screen capture, simulations, etc. as appropriate for the project.
Apply adult learning principles, cognitive load best practices and inclusive design principles (i.e. clear structure, closed captions, transcriptions, etc.).
Lead structured intake sessions to identify client needs, providing follow up discover meetings, and work collaboratively with subject matter experts (SMEs) to identify the desired learning outcomes and choose the instructional methods and learning activities that will make the learning most effective (i.e. clarify goals, audience, performance measures, constraints, risks, etc.).
Provide recommendations for appropriate digital approaches while addressing any assumptions that may not be best suited for the role.
Facilitate working sessions with SMEs to identify best applied solutions to learning requests.
Translate complex information into a learning solution that is clear with language that is relatable and job-relevant for the intended audience.
Manage feedback cycles professionally (intakes, follow-up meetings, version controls, documented changes, timelines, approval on scope, etc.).
Upload, test, and publish learning assets to the LMS and ensure courses are functional, accurate and ready for learner engagement.
Conduct regular and documented quality assurance checks for functionality, clarity, accessibility, and UX.
Maintain organized files and documentation (assets, source files, scripts, storyboards, versions, etc.) in accordance with records management procedures and policy.
Performs other duties consistent with the scope of e-learning and Talent Development, learning and development and design.
Employ instructional technology to create accessible, inclusive, and engaging learning experiences.
Partner with SMEs to translate complex information into digestible and actionable learning materials.
Conceptualize and script storyboard/wireframes for e-learning, video and voice-over content, and be able to revise based on SME/stakeholder feedback all while protecting instructional integrity.
Analyze training needs by collaborating with subject matter experts (SMEs), stakeholders, and team leads.
Utilize our Learning Management System (LMS) to publish courses.
Work with Talent Development Coordinator when needed to collaborate on various learning projects.
Ensure all content is aligned with 1TZ’ s strategic objectives and tailored to the unique needs of employees.
Producing, writing, editing, proofreading and publishing content.
Formulating content strategies and researching content topics.
Performs other duties related to the position.