Instructional Designer

Graco•Minneapolis, MN

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

Graco manufactures and markets premium equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray a wide variety of fluid and powder materials. This role is responsible for designing and developing standardized training materials that enable Technical Trainers to effectively deliver high-quality, consistent training across manufacturing operations. This role partners closely with technical trainers, operations leaders, and subject matter experts (SMEs) to translate complex manufacturing processes into structured, instructor-ready content that supports safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design, Learning & Development, Education, or related field
3+ years of experience in instructional design experience, preferably in manufacturing, industrial, or technical training environments
Experience developing instructor-led training content and facilitator guides
Strong ability to translate technical or operational processes into structured training materials
Knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design methodologies (e.g., ADDIE, SAM)
Strong collaboration skills with ability to partner effectively with Technical Trainers and SMEs
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong attention to detail and content accuracy
Structured thinking and curriculum development skills
Effective collaboration with technical and frontline teams
Continuous improvement mindset

Nice To Haves

Global industrial manufacturing experience and knowledge
MBA or Master’s degree preferred
Experience supporting Technical Trainers or train-the-trainer programs
Background in manufacturing, industrial operations, or skilled trades environments
Familiarity with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or operational excellence concepts
Experience creating visual and hands-on training materials for frontline employees
Knowledge of safety and compliance training requirements (e.g., OSHA)
Experience with eLearning tools to supplement instructor-led training

Responsibilities

Design and develop instructor-led training (ILT) materials for Technical Trainers, including facilitator guides, participant materials, and structured lesson plans
Translate complex manufacturing processes, equipment operation, and technical procedures into clear, trainer-led instructional materials
Create supporting training tools such as job aids, visual guides, process maps, skills checklists, and assessments
Standardize training content to ensure consistency across shifts, sites, and trainers
Manage relevant content within the Graco LMS
Partner with Technical Trainers and SMEs to capture best practices and convert them into scalable, repeatable training content
Conduct needs analysis to identify gaps in existing training materials and recommend improvements
Support onboarding and certification programs by equipping trainers with structured curricula and evaluation tools
Support train-the-trainer initiatives to ensure effective delivery and adoption of materials
Ensure all training materials align with safety standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies
Maintain and update training content to reflect process improvements, equipment changes, or new technologies
Evaluate training effectiveness through feedback from Technical Trainers and operational performance metrics
Other duties as assigned.