Instructional Designer

Vanderbilt University • Nashville, TN

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Office of Learning Innovation (OLI), created by the University Provost, is dedicated to advancing new, uniquely Vanderbilt ways of delivering education to meet the evolving needs of learners and maximize the university’s global impact. The team focuses on supporting the growth of the university’s digital and lifelong learning portfolio, providing expertise in educational technologies, and elevating Vanderbilt as a leader in cutting-edge learning innovation. OLI brings together expertise in learning technology, instructional design, and digital learning strategy to bring new programs from idea to market, and to continuously strengthen the university’s existing portfolio of academic innovation initiatives. The Instructional Designer will collaborate with faculty and university partners to design engaging, inclusive, and pedagogically sound learning experiences that advance the institution’s teaching and learning mission. This position supports multiple academic units and initiatives, applying creativity, organization, and expertise in instructional design to achieve institutional goals for quality and innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in instructional design, educational technology, curriculum and instruction, or a related field is required.
• One to three years demonstrated experience designing and developing online, in-person, or hybrid courses within a higher education environment is required.
• Strong knowledge of instructional design frameworks, learning theory, and effective online pedagogy is required.
• Experience applying accessibility standards and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles in digital course design is required.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and stakeholder relationships in a collaborative, service-oriented environment is required.
• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to consult effectively across disciplines and organizational levels is required.
• Proficiency with learning management systems (e.g., Canvas, Brightspace, Blackboard) and related instructional technologies is required.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree is preferred.
• Demonstrated success partnering with faculty and academic leadership to advance institutional goals for teaching and learning is preferred.
• Familiarity with Quality Matters or other recognized quality assurance frameworks for online learning is preferred.
• Commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and staying current with research and emerging practices in online education is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop online courses in partnership with faculty, ensuring alignment with program outcomes, learning objectives, and institutional quality standards.
• Serve as a design consultant to faculty and departments across the university, providing guidance on course structure, learning activities, assessment strategies, and the effective use of educational technology.
• Partner with project managers, digital media specialists, learning technologists, and other university teams to design and deliver cohesive, high-quality courses and programs that align with institutional standards and timelines.
• Ensure all instructional materials and digital content meet accessibility, usability, and quality assurance standards in accordance with university policy and best practices.
• Stay current with trends in learning science, educational technology, and instructional design; share insights and contribute to the development of institutional best practices.
• Utilize systems such as Brightspace, Microsoft 365, and other emerging educational technologies to support course design and faculty engagement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level