An Educational Technologist, sometimes called an Instructional Technologist or Learning Technologist, is a specialist who blends educational theory with cutting-edge technology to improve teaching and learning processes in higher education institutions. This role focuses on creating innovative, tech-driven solutions that make education more accessible, engaging, and effective. For instance, they might develop interactive online modules or virtual simulations that allow students to explore complex concepts hands-on.
The position has roots in the early 20th century when educators began using film projectors and radio for instruction, evolving significantly with the rise of personal computers in the 1980s and the internet boom in the 1990s. Today, post-2020 pandemic acceleration, Educational Technologists are pivotal in supporting hybrid and fully online programs worldwide.
Educational Technologists wear many hats, from designing digital curricula to troubleshooting tech issues during live sessions. They collaborate with faculty to integrate tools that align with learning objectives, ensuring technology enhances rather than complicates education.
In regions facing infrastructure challenges, such as the Gaza Strip, where universities like the Islamic University of Gaza operate amid ongoing conflicts, Educational Technologists prioritize offline-capable tools and mobile-first solutions to sustain education continuity.
To land Educational Technologist jobs, candidates typically need a strong academic foundation. A Master's degree in Educational Technology, Instructional Design, Computer Science with an education focus, or a related field is standard; a PhD is preferred for senior roles involving research integration.
Research focus often centers on edtech efficacy, such as studies on adaptive learning algorithms or AI in personalized education. Preferred experience includes 2-5 years in higher ed settings, with a portfolio showcasing projects like LMS implementations or grant-funded tech pilots. Publications in journals like the Journal of Educational Technology & Society or securing small grants for tool development strengthen applications.
Essential skills and competencies include:
Demand for Educational Technologist jobs is growing, with projections showing 10% increase through 2030 due to digital transformation in universities. Salaries average $75,000-$100,000 USD globally, higher in tech-savvy institutions. Actionable advice: Build a portfolio website, pursue certifications like Certified Educational Technologist (CET), and network at conferences like EDUCAUSE.
Challenges include keeping pace with rapid tech changes and addressing equity in access. Yet, opportunities abound in administration jobs and remote higher ed jobs, especially for innovative solutions.
For resume tips, explore how to write a winning academic CV.
Learning Management System (LMS): A software platform for administering, delivering, and tracking educational courses online, such as Moodle or Blackboard.
Instructional Design: The systematic process of creating effective learning experiences, combining content, activities, and assessments.
Edtech: Short for educational technology, encompassing hardware, software, and digital strategies used in teaching.
Ready to pursue Educational Technologist jobs? Browse openings on higher-ed-jobs, gain insights from higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or if you're an employer, post a job today.
Academic Jobs lists current university and higher education openings worldwide with filters that match how campuses hire — by job type, position, city, and institution. Use the search above to narrow the live list, then apply from the employer listing. Set an alert with the same filters so new posts reach you while they are still open.
This page is for job seekers who want higher-ed roles, not a generic job feed. The heading count is the number of matching jobs worldwide right now. That is the figure you should use when you decide whether to widen the region or keep filtering.
Reach qualified educational technologist professionals across any industry. List your vacancy on AcademicJobs.com.
Get notified when new educational technologist vacancies are posted on Academic Jobs.
All USA, USA Territories
All USA, USA Territories: American Samoa (USA); Guam (USA); Puerto Rico (USA); Virgin Islands (USA); Northern Mariana Islands (USA)
All USA