Instructional Designer

McHenry County College; Bull Valley (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

McHenry County College is seeking an Instructional Designer to guide faculty in applying evidence-based teaching practices and innovative course design. This role emphasizes collaboration on developing high-quality courses and includes conducting training on instructional design principles.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s degree and has extensive experience in course design. A commitment to inclusive teaching and digital accessibility is essential. Join us in fostering an educational environment focused on student success.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Two or more years of higher education online or blended teaching experience.
• Three or more years of experience in course design or instructional design.

Responsibilities

• Act as the subject matter expert in instructional design across all course offerings.
• Lead pedagogical initiatives like competency-based education (CBE) and online learning.
• Design and deliver training sessions on instructional design and online teaching.

Skills

Instructional design models

Proficiency with learning management systems (LMS)

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Digital accessibility standards

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Project management skills

Education

Master’s degree in Education, Instructional Design, or related field

Tools

Canvas LMS

Job description

Workweek

40 hours | Flexible schedule to meet department needs, which may include evenings and weekends.
This position is partially granted funded.

Position Summary

The Instructional Designer serves as the subject matter expert in instructional design and pedagogy, guiding faculty in the application of evidence-based teaching practices, inclusive and accessible course design, and the effective use of instructional technologies to support student learning. This role collaborates with faculty on the design and development of high-quality courses and learning experiences in both CTE and transfer disciplines, and across all modalities (in‑person, blended, and online). In addition, this position is responsible for developing and conducting training on instructional practices and design principles that promote quality, innovation, and student success across the College. As part of this work, the Instructional Designer will lead and scale initiatives like competency‑based education (CBE), and online teaching and learning and will collaborate with faculty, staff and administrators across the College.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

Instructional Design Leadership

• Act as the subject matter expert in instructional design and assist in establishing and maintaining instructional design standards across all course offerings of the College
• Lead and scale pedagogical and instructional design initiatives, such as CBE, and online teaching and learning

Faculty Collaboration and Training

• Collaborate with faculty to design and develop courses that align learning outcomes, assessments, and instructional materials using evidence‑based instructional design principles in both CTE and transfer disciplines
• Provide one‑on‑one consultation and support to full‑time and adjunct faculty in course design, development, and revision in both CTE and transfer disciplines, and across all modalities (in‑person, blended and online), including the creation of engaging digital learning resources
• Evaluate and recommend improvements for courses to enhance quality, accessibility, and effectiveness, using recognized course quality standards (e.g., Quality Matters or similar frameworks)
• Design, develop, and deliver training and faculty development sessions on instructional design, online and blended teaching practices, student engagement, and assessment strategies, including authentic performance‑based assessments
• Partner with faculty, staff, and administrators to offer professional development opportunities related to effective teaching and learning practices for new and continuing full‑time and adjunct faculty

Accessibility and Competency‑based Education

• Incorporate principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and ensure alignment with digital accessibility standards (ADA, WCAG) in course design; provide guidance and training to faculty on accessible instructional materials
• Support the design and development of CBE courses and programs by working with faculty and academic leadership to align competencies with measurable learning outcomes, develop authentic and mastery‑based assessments, and support flexible, student‑centered learning pathways

Administrative and Other Responsibilities

• Stay current with emerging trends, research, and best practices in instructional design, online learning, and educational technology.
• Work collaboratively with others (e.g. colleagues and other stakeholders,) to accomplish functions and responsibilities
• Assume additional duties as assigned by immediate supervisor

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Education, Instructional Design, Educational Technology, or a related field from a regionally accredited institution
• Two or more years of higher education online or blended teaching experience
• Three or more years of experience in course design, curriculum development, or instructional design

Desired Qualifications

• Five or more years of higher education teaching experience that includes experience in all modalities (in‑person, blended, and online)

Skills and Specifications

• Demonstrated knowledge/implementation of instructional technologies used in higher education in both CTE and transfer disciplines
• Instructional design models and approaches to in‑person, blended, and online learning
• Online teaching standards (such as Quality Matters)
• Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and digital accessibility standards, including ADA and WCAG guidelines
• Strong understanding of pedagogy and learning theories, including CBE, active learning, inclusive teaching, and assessment practices
• Proficiency with learning management systems (LMS), preferably Canvas, and experience designing or supporting courses within an LMS
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to create clear and user‑friendly instructional materials
• Ability to take a teaching‑and‑learning‑focused approach to problem‑solving
• Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills
• Ability to work independently while maintaining a strong team orientation and developing productive working relationships across the College
• Positive attitude, including the ability to foster collegiality and support faculty with varying levels of experience
• Flexibility and openness to change, including the willingness to adapt to evolving instructional practices and institutional priorities
• Commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and professional growth
• Commitment to the College’s mission, vision, values, and goals
• Commitment to and respect for diversity, equity and inclusion

Equal Employment Opportunity

McHenry County College declares and reaffirms a policy of equal opportunity and non‑discrimination. The College will make all decisions regarding admission, employment, participation in educational programs, or activities, without discrimination on grounds of race, color, creed or religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, marital status, physical or mental disabilities, military status, sexual orientation, gender‑related identity, pregnancy, unfavorable discharge from military service, or other factors prohibited by law. Decisions regarding employment include hiring, promotion, termination, wages or salaries, benefits, and other terms and conditions of employment. MCC is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible college community.

To request reasonable accommodation to participate in any aspect of the hiring process, contact Human Resources at [e-mail].