Learning Designer - Comprehensive Online Education Services

University of Pretoria; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 50 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution seeks a Learning Designer/Senior Learning Designer in Pretoria. The role involves developing online educational materials, managing training for academic staff, and facilitating best practices in online learning. Candidates should possess a Master's or PhD in relevant fields, coupled with expertise in learning theories and management systems. The position offers a competitive remuneration package and the possibility of hybrid work arrangements.

Benefits

Health benefits

Professional development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in a relevant field with experience in online learning.
• Advanced knowledge of distance education technologies and curriculum design.
• Expertise in learning management systems and e-learning tools.

Responsibilities

• Provide curriculum and instructional design services for online programs.
• Develop interactive educational materials in collaboration with multimedia experts.
• Manage project teams and facilitate training on online learning.

Skills

Learning theories knowledge

E-learning strategies

Computer literacy

Conflict resolution skills

Strong communication skills

Education

Master’s degree in Computer-Integrated Education or related field

PhD in relevant academic field

Tools

Articulate 360

Photoshop

Job description

Overview

UP Professional and Support DIRECTORATE OF COMPREHENSIVE ONLINE EDUCATION SERVICES LEARNING DESIGNER/SENIOR LEARNING DESIGNER
PEROMNES POST LEVEL 8 /7 (Subject to qualifications and experience)

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy. The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

This is an academic position with potential for a hybrid working arrangement, subject to discussions and agreement with the line manager.

Responsibilities

• Providing curriculum, learning and instructional design services to develop programmes that are offered fully online;
• Developing interactive educational materials suitable for fully online learning in collaboration with subject matter experts, graphic artists and videographers;
• Providing first-line support through channels such as phone, e-mail, chat, web-conferencing and drop-in consultations, and act as single point of contact to assist academic staff;
• Modelling effective design practices and creating engaging learning activities and compelling course content that enhances retention and transfer;
• Managing and facilitating training opportunities relating to fully online learning for both individuals and larger groups & align these opportunities with the strategic objectives of the University;
• The project management of multiple development teams and projects;
• Teaching fully online modules and modelling best practises;
• Conducting research on topics relating to fully online learning and disseminating findings;
• Participating in marketing and liaison activities, e.g. the maintenance of the departmental website, the development of marketing material for new fully online programmes, and the creation of a social media presence.

Minimum Requirements

Post level 8:

• A relevant Master’s degree in Computer- integrated Education, Educational Technology, Curriculum Development or Academic Development OR
• A Masters-level qualification in any academic discipline, with extensive experience in technology integration, online learning, or distance learning.

Post Level 7:

• A relevant PhD in Computer- integrated Education, Educational Technology, Curriculum Development or Academic Development OR
• A PhD in a relevant academic field, with extensive experience in technology integration, online learning, or distance learning.

Required Competencies (skills, Knowledge And Behavioural Attributes)

• Expert knowledge of learning theories, teaching strategies and best practices in an e-learning environment;
• Advanced knowledge of higher education policy frameworks as it relates to curriculum design, teaching, learning, assessment, educational technology, open educational resources, distance learning, and student success;
• Expert level of computer literacy, technical skills and the ability to troubleshoot;
• Seasoned knowledge of learning management systems, authoring systems and elearning tools
• Expert knowledge of web and visual design principles;
• Advanced level of visual design skills (e.g. Articulate 360, Rise, Photoshop, Illustrator or similar software) and ability to storyboard;
• Advanced level of ability to write effective copy, instructional text, and audio/video scripts;
• Expert ability to integrate AI tools into learning design workflows (e.g., for ideation, content generation, analysis, or feedback), with an advanced understanding of the ethical, pedagogical, and data privacy considerations involved;
• Basic knowledge of programming, ICT hardware and network configuration;
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills;
• Decision-making and leadership capabilities;
• Expertise in conflict resolution and relationship building;
• Adaptability and willingness to deal with constant change;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills;
• Organisational skills, including attention to detail and multitasking;
• Ability to work under pressure and a tolerance for high levels of stress.

Added Advantages And Preferences

Post level 8:

• Working towards a Doctorate degree (e.g. in Computer-integrated Education, Educational Technology, Curriculum Development or Academic Development)
• Project management experience
• Curriculum and instructional design and development experience
• Extensive experience in working in a learning management system and various authoring tools, online applications, services and tools
• Experience within Academic environment in a Higher Educational Institution.

Post Level 7:

• NRF rating
• Project management experience
• Curriculum and instructional design and development experience
• Extensive experience in working in a learning management system and various authoring tools, online applications, services and tools
• Experience within Academic environment in a Higher Educational Institution.
• PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

The total remuneration package for this position will be as determined by UP remuneration policy guidelines. (These amounts include the University’s contributions to standard UP benefits, namely provident fund, group life and funeral cover, but exclude contributions to medical aid, as the latter varies per employee.) UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za, and follow the link: Careers@UP. In applying for this post, please attach:

• A comprehensive CV;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

CLOSING DATE: 9 February 2026

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES: Ms Kgomotso Lekgari, Tel: [phone] for application-related enquiries, and Ms Bianca Le Cornu, [e-mail] for enquiries relating to the post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by the end of March 2026, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.