Instructional Designer

Graco • Minneapolis, MN

9d • 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.

Benefits

• medical
• dental
• stock purchase plan
• 401(k)
• tuition reimbursement

What This Job Offers

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