Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) Federal Contracting

Stafford Consulting•McLean, VA

5d•$30 - $55•Remote

About The Position

SCC seeks an experienced Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) with a strong background in Federal contracting environments to support the development of high‑quality training products for government programs. This role requires mastery of instructional design methodologies, the ability to work directly with Federal subject matter experts (SMEs), and the flexibility to operate as a 1099 independent contractor with surge‑support availability during peak workload periods. The ISD will design, develop, and deliver learning solutions that meet Federal standards, contract requirements, and agency‑specific training needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design, Education, Adult Learning, Communications, or a related field.
Minimum of five (5) years of instructional design experience, with at least three (3) years supporting Federal agencies or Federal contractors.
Demonstrated experience working directly with government SMEs to gather requirements, validate content, and refine technical material.
Proven ability to operate as a 1099 independent contractor, including managing availability, deliverable‑based work, and surge periods.
Experience developing SCORM‑compliant eLearning and blended learning solutions for Federal programs.
Mastery of ADDIE, adult learning theory, and instructional design best practices.
Proficiency with Articulate Storyline, Rise, Adobe Captivate, Camtasia, and related development tools.
Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to simplify complex regulatory or policy content.
Familiarity with Federal contracting environments, including deliverable‑driven schedules, LOE management, and quality control expectations.
Understanding of Section 508 accessibility requirements and remediation practices.
Ability to work independently, manage multiple concurrent tasks, and meet tight deadlines during surge periods.
Strong communication and collaboration skills for working with SMEs, PMs, and Federal stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Prior experience supporting HHS, ACF, CMS, VA, DoD, DHS, or similar agencies strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct needs assessments, task analyses, and content mapping in collaboration with Federal SMEs across program, policy, and technical domains.
Design and develop instructional materials—including eLearning modules, facilitator guides, participant guides, job aids, microlearning, and performance support tools—using ADDIE and adult learning principles.
Translate complex Federal program requirements, regulations, and technical content into clear, accessible training products for diverse learner groups.
Develop SCORM‑compliant eLearning using tools such as Articulate Storyline, Rise, Adobe Captivate, or equivalent platforms.
Support rapid‑turnaround and surge assignments, including accelerated development cycles, iterative SME reviews, and short‑notice updates to existing training content.
Coordinate with project managers, SMEs, and quality reviewers to ensure all deliverables meet Federal standards, contract requirements, and Section 508 accessibility guidelines.
Participate in virtual SME working sessions, content validation meetings, and design reviews with Federal stakeholders.
Maintain version control, documentation, and metadata for all training products in accordance with contract and agency requirements.
Provide recommendations for curriculum improvements, modernization, and alignment with agency learning strategies.
Support proposal development, LOE estimation, and surge‑staffing plans as needed.