NSF STAIR Instructional Technology Specialist - Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences

Penn State University • Ferguson Township, PA

2d • $68,200 - $102,300 • Hybrid

About The Position

The NSF Skilled Training in Administration and Institutional Research (STAIR) program at the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences at Penn State invites applications for the position of Instructional Technology Specialist. This will be filled at Senior Professional level. The Instructional Technology Specialist is a key contributor to our instructional innovation and digital learning ecosystem. This role supports research administrators and faculty Subject Matter Experts in developing research administration curriculum, leveraging state-of-the-art tools, and providing close mentorship and guidance. The Specialist will design multimedia instructional assets, develop digital learning environments, and guide SMEs in developing content that leverages pedagogically sound technology solutions. This is a term position funded for one year, with the option to work remotely or in a hybrid capacity. A successful candidate would demonstrate advanced knowledge of instructional technology practices, have a good understanding of the research and research administration ecosystem, work independently on moderately complex assignments, and contribute strategically to improving instruction for research and research administration.

Requirements

• Advanced knowledge of instructional technologies, asynchronous online training design, and multimedia content creation.
• Proficiency in 360 Articulate (with AI) is a must.
• Proficiency in other multimedia tools and content creation platforms (e.g., Canva, Google Suite, WordPress) strongly encouraged.
• Demonstrated experience applying research methods and/or learning analytics to instructional challenges.
• Knowledge of, or experience in research administration, including familiarity with proposal development, grant management, compliance, or related processes.
• Proven ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, provide effective training, and guide SMEs in using technology to support pedagogy.
• Ability to work independently with limited oversight and manage moderately complex instructional technology projects.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with academic publishing, research dissemination, or federally funded projects.
• Experience developing professional development programs, online course/training shells, or other curriculum resources.
• Background working with multilingual or multicultural learning environments and adult learners.
• Experience designing online courses for higher education or training for professional audiences.
• Demonstrated working experience with web development tools and emerging technology trends in higher education.

Responsibilities

• Instructional Technology Integration and SME Guidance: Identify instructional technology needs and recommend solutions that align with course and curriculum goals by seeking input from the STAIR leadership team and a variety of research administrators and faculty SMEs from Penn State and nationwide. Provide pedagogical and technical guidance on module functionality, multimedia tools, virtual learning platforms, and online asynchronous teaching best practices. Facilitate meetings, consultations, and training sessions with the core STAIR team and SMEs on digital pedagogy, accessibility, and technology-enhanced instruction. Build draft portions of the content, including templates and assessments as models for SMEs. Evaluate instructional needs for each module to be developed and create SME instructions and media plans for diverse training unit types. Design and produce digital assets, including infographics, illustrations, videos, animations, audio content, and interactive learning products that support learning outcomes. Develop and maintain templates, resource hubs, course modules, and multimedia-rich instructional materials.
• Quality Assurance, Accessibility, Compliance and Assessment: Ensure all digital instructional materials conform to accessibility standards, universal design principles, and institutional quality guidelines. Collaborate with SMEs to implement accessible design practices across all media formats. Apply research methods to assess instructional technology effectiveness, gather SME feedback, identify gaps in content, and suggest improvement approaches. Help collect, analyze, and interpret learning analytics related to technology usage and engagement. Produce evidence-based recommendations to enhance training effectiveness, accessibility, and learner experience.
• Emerging Technology Exploration, and Technical Support and Integration: Research and apply evolving technologies, including AI tools, immersive environments, and gamification approaches, and evaluate their potential instructional impact. Participate in SME working groups exploring innovative tools and assist in piloting new technologies. Troubleshoot instructional technology issues and partner with IT services to ensure seamless integration of developed training with the educational dissemination platforms. Assist with configuration, testing, and rollout of instructional tools to support faculty adoption and learner success.
• Collaboration, Leadership and Supervision: Serve as an indirect supervisor and mentor to part-time student assistants. Provide constructive feedback and review the work of SMEs and students for accuracy and adherence to guidelines. Coordinate project activities, set priorities within established guidelines, and monitor progress and results.

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees