Instructional Design Specialst

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The School of Government at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill works to improve the lives of North Carolinians by engaging in practical scholarship that helps public officials and citizens understand and improve state and local government. As the largest university-based local government training, advisory, and research organization in the United States, the School of Government offers up to 200 courses, webinars, and specialized conferences for more than 12,000 public officials each year. In addition, faculty members annually publish approximately 50 books, manuals, reports, articles, bulletins, and other print and online content related to state and local government. The School is also home to a nationally ranked graduate program in public administration and specialized centers focused on information technology and environmental finance.

The primary focus of this position is to serve as the lead for the instructional design functional area within the IT Division, supporting the School of Government's academic mission through expert instructional design, project management, and strategic leadership. This role provides guidance to faculty on course design and teaching strategies, manages instructional development projects, and ensures high-quality learning experiences across all delivery formats including face-to-face, online, hybrid, and hyflex.
The Instructional Design Specialist will lead the design, development, and continuous improvement of over 100 client-focused courses for state and local government officials, as well as e-learning products for a variety of School of Government audiences. In addition, this role will oversee more than 20 graduate-level courses in the Master of Public Administration program.
Key responsibilities include coordinating course updates and major revisions, applying established instructional design frameworks such as Universal Design for Learning, and ensuring all materials align with clear, measurable learning objectives. The specialist will design and deliver engaging learning experiences within the learning management system ( LMS) using tools such as Canvas LMS, Articulate 360, and Vyond. They will also analyze learner feedback and performance data to make evidence-based recommendations for course improvements and enhancements
As a strategic leader, the Instructional Design Specialist will contribute to the School's long-term teaching and learning initiatives. They will develop and communicate strategy around instructional technology use, stay informed on evolving pedagogical practices, and represent the School on campus committees related to teaching innovation and digital learning. The specialist will work closely with the Assistant Dean for Information Management, academic program teams, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment of instructional efforts with broader institutional goals.

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent educational or instructional activities related to consulting or developing course content, curriculum, instructional technique/technology, distance education design, development or implementation, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution.

Working knowledge of the Canvas learning management system.
An understanding of instructional design principles, Universal Design for Learning ( UDL), accessibility principles and tools for instructional design, Principles of Multimedia Learning, Quality Matters and other pedagogical best practices.
Demonstrated ability to successfully manage instructional design projects.
Experience evaluating teaching and learning products and iterating based on evaluation.
Experience with e-learning development, including e-learning technologies such as Articulate Storyline, Vyond, or Articulate Rise.
Exceptional Oral and written communication skills.

Five or more years of experience designing learning experiences for online or hybrid higher education programs.
Experience in curriculum design and program evaluation.
Experience with public administration courses and faculty.
Experience teaching in an online setting.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.