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National Science Teaching Association

Professional Learning Design Specialist

🇺🇸 Remote - McLean, VA

🕑 Full-Time

💰 $90K - $100K

💻 Instructional Design

🗓️ September 24th, 2025

Edtech.com's Summary

NSTA is hiring a Professional Learning Design Specialist. The role involves designing and developing professional learning products that help educators implement science education standards like NGSS, translating research into practical classroom experiences, and creating learning pathways that support teacher growth from introductory to leadership levels.

Highlights
  • Design and develop engaging professional learning products for educators and districts
  • Translate research, NGSS, and NSTA resources into practical, classroom-ready experiences
  • Create learning pathways to support educator development from beginner to leadership
  • Apply adult learning theory and instructional design principles to ensure effective, inclusive experiences
  • Stay updated on trends in Science and STEM education to keep offerings current
  • Required: Bachelor's degree in education or related field and 5+ years of experience in teaching, curriculum, or professional learning design
  • Familiarity with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) or willingness to learn
  • Preferred skills include public speaking, advanced PowerPoint, and experience with AMS platforms like Aptify, Personify, or iMIS
  • Salary range: $90,000 to $100,000 annually
  • Benefits include unlimited vacation, comprehensive health insurance, retirement plan with employer match, and professional development opportunities

Professional Learning Design Specialist Full Description

Professional Learning Design Specialist
Fully Remote • McLean, VA

Description

Be part of a dynamic team transforming science education for all. 
At NSTA, we believe every student deserves access to high-quality science learning. To make that vision possible, we support educators with professional learning that is dynamic, inspiring, and grounded in research. 

As the Professional Learning Design Specialist, you’ll play a key role in creating the products and experiences that help teachers bring science to life in classrooms across the country. Your work will turn big ideas, like the NGSS, Science and STEM for all, and future-ready learning, into tools that educators can use every day. This position reports to the Director of Professional Learning.  

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES 
  • Design and develop engaging professional learning products for educators and districts. 
  • Translate research, NGSS, and NSTA resources into practical, classroom-ready experiences
  • Create learning pathways that help educators grow from introductory to leadership levels. 
  • Apply adult learning theory and instructional design to ensure experiences are effective and inclusive. 
  • Stay ahead of trends in Science and STEM education and recommend ways to keep offerings fresh. 
  • Make sure every product reflects the latest research and best practices in science education. 
Requirements

REQUIRED 
We know strong candidates may not meet every qualification, and we value a variety of experiences. If this mission excites you, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t check every box. 
  • A bachelor’s degree in education or a related field (advanced degree welcomed but not required). 
  • 5+ years of experience in teaching, curriculum, or professional learning design (formal or informal settings). Skills in curriculum design, instructional design, and adult learning practices
  • Familiarity with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and the Framework for K–12 Science Education, or a willingness to learn quickly. 
  • Attention to detail, strong time management, and a collaborative spirit. 
  • May be asked to participate in meetings that may  require travel.  

NICE TO HAVE 
  • Public speaking experience 
  • Advance skill with PowerPoint 
  • Microsoft Office Suite, Experience with Aptify, Personify, iMIS or another large AMS platform preferred 

SOME OF OUR BENEFITS 
We are committed to supporting our team to achieve a work/ life balance. Here are just a few of the benefits we offer to help you thrive:  
  • Unlimited vacation  
  • Remote work environment  
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance 
  • Sick leave  
  • A retirement plan with a generous employer match 
  • Professional development  

POSITION LOCATION 
This position is a fully remote position.  

SALARY RANGE 
$90-100K annually 

Why Join Us 
When you join NSTA, you’re not just taking a job—you’re helping to transform science education nationwide. You’ll work with passionate colleagues, contribute to meaningful professional learning experiences, and make a difference for teachers and students across the country.