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

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.

This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

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.

Key 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.

Required Skills and Experience:

• 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.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• 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.

Critical Skills: 360 Articulate (with AI) • Content creation • Creative problem solving • Text and Visual Editing • Educational technology • Learning analytics for adult education • Multimedia tools • Familiarity with research ecosystems • Training needs analysis • Trend analysis • Visual design.

Application Materials: To apply, please visit, Careers | Human Resources, please submit the following:

• A resume
• A cover letter
• A portfolio that highlights your creative range and design expertise

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Master's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None

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 - Senior Professional, 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 full-time, one-year contract with the option to work remotely or in a hybrid capacity.

A senior Professional in this role 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.

Key Responsibilities

Instructional Technology Integration & 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 & 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 & Technical Support & 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 & 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.

Required Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.

Critical Skills

360 Articulate (with AI) • Content creation • Creative problem solving • Text & Visual Editing • Educational technology • Learning analytics for adult education • Multimedia tools • Familiarity with research ecosystems • Training needs analysis • Trend analysis • Visual design

To apply, please visit, Careers | Human Resources, please submit:

1. A resume

2. A cover letter

3. A portfolio that highlights your creative range and design expertise.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment 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 $68,200.00 - $102,300.00.

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.

The Pennsylvania State University 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.

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