Learning and Governance Engagement Instructional Design Specialist

State of Indiana•Indianapolis, IN

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Child Services (DCS) is seeking a passionate and dedicated Instructional Design Specialist to join their team. This role is crucial in advancing the DCS mission by designing high-quality learning experiences that strengthen family-centered practice across the agency. The specialist will develop engaging and effective training materials using adult learning principles and various modalities like e-learning, instructor-led content, blended learning, and performance support tools. This position ensures the fidelity of the DCS Practice Model by creating learning solutions that reinforce consistent practice expectations. The role involves partnering with subject matter experts and leaders to translate complex information into accessible, learner-centered modules, manuals, job aids, and in-service training programs. The goal is to empower staff and supervisors to confidently implement new policies, refine their practice, and deliver high-quality services to children and families statewide. This position primarily works from the Central DCS Offices in Indianapolis, Indiana, with occasional travel as needed. Residency in the service area is preferred.

Requirements

Extensive knowledge of and subject matter expert in child development, child welfare, family systems, or related behavioral health topics.
Ability to promote teamwork by working with other staff development members and field operations personnel to achieve established goals.
Ability to provide positive feedback as well as address concerns as they arise.
Knowledge of issues related to resource and/or adoptive parents regarding the Resource Parent Trainers position.
Excellent computer skills with Microsoft Word products including Word and PowerPoint and willingness to learn basic information regarding MS Excel and Access if requested.
Excellent writing skills and the ability to convey written information in a clear, concise manner. Writing samples will be requested.
Candidates must have the ability to travel statewide overnight to deliver training and in-services.
Ability to provide training during evening and weekend hours to accommodate resource parents’ schedules.
Ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

3 years of experience applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role.
Completion of relevant educational degree(s) such as a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Education, or other related fields may substitute for equivalent years of experience.

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain high-quality instructional materials, including e-learning modules, facilitator-led curriculum, performance support tools, job aids, and multimedia resources.
Conduct training needs assessments to identify learning gaps and ensure training solutions directly support staff and resource parent competency, compliance expectations, and agency priorities.
Apply evidence-based instructional design principles, adult learning theory, and child-welfare-specific best practices to produce effective and engaging learning experiences.
Ensure training content is accurate, up-to-date, and aligned with DCS policy, federal and state regulations, and practice model standards.
Partner with subject matter experts and agency leaders to define learning outcomes, validate content, and build training that reflects real-world field scenarios.
Evaluate the impact and effectiveness of training through data, learner feedback, and performance measures, revising to improve clarity, accessibility, and usability.
Support statewide learning initiatives by designing scalable solutions that meet the needs of a diverse workforce and vary delivery methods (virtual, in-person, blended learning).
Contribute to the ongoing modernization of the DCS training program by recommending innovations in technology, instructional methods, and content design strategies.
Develop and provide regional pre-service sessions for the assigned division/department.
Provide content expertise, through research and experience, to curriculum writers on topics identified for curriculum development via seminars/workshops, videoconferencing, and webinars for the agency.
Assist resource parents with accessing online training modules necessary to complete both pre-service training and ongoing training through coordination with local libraries and local offices as appropriate.
Become an expert on new curriculum through research and experience, providing additional insight to weave the DCS mission, vision, and values, as well as the DCS Practice Model, throughout DCS resource parent training.

Benefits

Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to: 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers, Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave, Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
12 paid holidays, 14 in election years
Education Reimbursement Program
Group life insurance
Referral Bonus program
Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Free Parking for most positions
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