Edtech.com's Summary

The Pennsylvania State University is hiring an Instructional Designer for its World Campus Learning Design unit. This role involves leading the development of innovative, high-quality online learning experiences for global learners by partnering with faculty, managing design projects, applying learning theories, and advancing initiatives in artificial intelligence and learning analytics.

Highlights

Lead program-level design efforts in academic programs, collaborating with faculty to set vision and measurable learning outcomes.
Manage end-to-end course and program design ensuring quality, scalability, and institutional alignment.
Apply evidence-based learning theories and design frameworks for inclusive and engaging educational experiences.
Advance innovation in AI in higher education and learning analytics, including designing AI literacy assignments and using LMS data for course improvements.
Provide faculty consultation and training on emerging technologies, instructional design practices, and data-informed decision making.
Collaborate with cross-functional university teams to support AI, analytics, and pedagogical initiatives.
Use tools such as Canvas LMS, Tableau, and Power BI for data visualization and learning analytics.
Requires a Master's degree with 3+ years of experience for Advanced Professional or 6+ years for Senior Professional; no certifications required.
Preferred qualifications include expertise in AI and learning analytics, experience leading large-scale program development, familiarity with Tableau/Power BI, and a doctorate in a related field.
Salary range is $56,200 to $89,600 with a comprehensive benefits package including a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

Instructional Designer - World Campus Learning Design Full Description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Learning Design unit at Penn State World Campus is seeking an Instructional Designer to lead the development of innovative, high-quality online learning experiences. World Campus Learning Design partners with faculty across Penn State to create accessible, engaging, and high-quality courses that reach learners around the globe. This position plays a strategic role in advancing the university's goal of elevating academic excellence and impact and supporting a bold vision for the future of World Campus.

You'll work alongside a talented team of multimedia developers, accessibility experts, editors, and production specialists who are dedicated to creating high-quality learning experiences. We are looking for a designer who values collaboration, brings new ideas to the table, and is ready to help shape the future of learning at Penn State.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead program-level design efforts — Serve as the lead instructional designer for academic programs, partnering with faculty leads to establish vision, structure, and measurable learning outcomes.
Manage complex design projects — Oversee course and program design from initiation through delivery, ensuring quality, scalability, and alignment with institutional goals.
Apply learning theory and design frameworks — Leverage evidence-based practices to create engaging, inclusive, and effective learning experiences.
Advance innovation in one or more strategic areas:

- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Higher Education

Design assignments and learning activities that build AI literacy and critical evaluation skills.
Advise faculty on responsible adoption of generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot).
Support institutional readiness for an AI-enabled teaching and learning environment.

- Learning Analytics

Use Learning Management System (LMS) data (e.g., Canvas) to evaluate outcomes and inform course and program revisions.
Contribute to dashboards or data visualizations using tools such as Tableau or Power BI.
Translate complex data into actionable insights for faculty and academic leaders.
Build faculty capacity — Provide consultation and training on emerging technologies, instructional design practices, and data-informed decision making.
Collaborate across the university — Partner with cross-functional teams to advance initiatives in AI, analytics, and innovative pedagogy.

- AI in teaching and learning, with hands-on experience using generative AI tools, or

- Learning analytics, with applied experience in data interpretation and visualization.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as Instructional Designer - Senior Professional, this position

requires:Master's Degree6+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Instructional Designer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Master's Degree3+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None

Preferred Qualifications:

Expertise in both AI and learning analytics.
Experience leading large-scale or interdisciplinary program development.
Familiarity with data systems and reporting tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
Doctorate in instructional design, curriculum and instruction, or a closely related field.

This position is expected to be filled as a fully remote role, pending university approval. Remote work arrangements are subject to Penn State policies and may vary based on work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCESEmployment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $56,200.00 - $89,600.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

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. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Penn State Policies

Hotlines

Original Job Description