Instructional Designer (Secret clearance required)

Sherpa 6•Springfield, VA

About The Position

We are seeking two highly analytical Instructional Designers (one Senior and one Mid-level) to join our collaborative team in developing engaging learning experiences for complex technical products. In this role, you will not just build content—you will architect learning experiences. You will be responsible for conducting deep, foundational root-cause analysis to uncover true training needs. You will translate those findings into design requirements and instructional strategies and then bring them to life through storyboarding. The ideal candidate has a rare ability to see the "connective tissue" between a raw data point in analysis and a specific interaction on a storyboarded screen, ensuring every learning asset directly drives performance and Warfighter readiness. In this role, you’ll partner with our technical writing, customer support, and engineering teams to create high-quality instructional content, delivering training and professional development for Sherpa 6 employees and our Department of War partners. If you have a passion for learning design, excellent communication skills, and enjoy making challenging material accessible, we would love to hear from you!

Requirements

Master’s degree in Instructional Design or related field plus three or more years working in an Instructional Design role with responsibility for end-to-end creation of instructor-led and/or eLearning materials --or -- Bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design or related field plus five or more years working in an Instructional Design role with responsibility for end-to-end creation of instructor-led and/or eLearning materials
Subject matter expert in Microsoft Office applications
Comfortable with written communication and documentation
Self-starter with the ability to dive in with minimal direction
Flexible, with experience working in a fast-paced environment
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Proficiency with courseware authoring tools such as Articulate 360
Must possess an active Secret Security Clearance
Active Secret clearance required
US Citizenship required

Nice To Haves

Have developed training programs for intelligence, military, or classified environments, especially with knowledge of security protocols or sensitive content requirements
Are familiar with DOW and federal government training environments, including relevant compliance standards, culture, and practices
Bring knowledge of Section 508 accessibility requirements or other standards for accessible and inclusive training
Have experience creating immersive learning experiences with emerging technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, or simulations
Have experience with collaboration tools (Jira, SharePoint, MS Office)
Can implement and track xAPI generated data analytics using courseware authoring tools (Articulate Storyline) and Learning Management System (Cornerstone)
Solid experience using Articulate 360
Expert-level skills in PowerPoint and the use of master slides conforming to design standards
Expert-level skills in Word and the use of styles conforming to design standards
Have used AI to design content rapidly while?maintaining?instructional integrity?
Exceptional research, analytical, and critical thinking skills
High attention to detail and organizational expertise
Ability to quickly grasp complex technical concepts and translate them into clear, engaging instructional materials
Proven experience leading process mapping and documentation initiatives to support program launch, scalability, and ongoing improvement
Have experience developing interactive multimedia instruction (IMI) and interactive eLearning solutions using courseware authoring tools, specifically Articulate 360
Have a proven track record using the ADDIE, SAT, and SAM models
Demonstrate the use of AI to explore productivity and efficiency gains

Responsibilities

Collaborate with instructional design team, subject matter experts, and stakeholders to implement instructional strategies supporting diverse adult learners by translating complex technical information into accessible learning content
Have a demonstrated ability to conduct task analysis using the SAT method, and the ability to identify performance gaps, target audience characteristics, and environmental constraints
Can derive concrete design requirements directly from analysis data and apply adult learning theories (Knowles, Gagné) to shape instructional strategies
Strong communications skills and adept at presenting and collaborating with team and stakeholders
Create detailed storyboards for a variety of learning experiences (video, computer-based training) that communicate the visual user experience including scripts, on-screen text, and interactive elements
Maintain connection from analysis results, to learning objectives, to training content, to learner readiness to perform in the operational environment
Can develop training materials using sound instructional design methods, including presentations, instructor and participant guides, classroom activities, and scenario-based exercises
Use scenario-based training and problem-based learning approaches to promote critical thinking and decision making in learners
Are skilled in learning analytics or assessment strategy designed to measure and improve the impact of training
Perform quality assurance reviews, content updates, and continuous improvement based on learner and team feedback
Are skilled in conducting interviews with subject matter experts to identify training needs
Understand how to review materials for instructional quality and soundness
Manage multiple concurrent projects using agile or iterative project management methodologies