Instructional Designer

Position Overview

The KU Center on Disabilities (KUCD) is seeking a creative and detail-oriented Instructional Designer to transform our research-based programs, interventions, and practices into engaging digital and print learning experiences.

In this role, you will design online courses, training modules, videos, graphics, and assessments, as well as printed materials such as curriculum guides, facilitator handbooks, and student workbooks. You'll work extensively in the Canvas LMS, develop interactive content with tools like Articulate 360, and produce AI-generated video content with platforms like Vyond.

As part of KUCD's Technical Assistance Team, you will adapt in-person learning into online formats, manage development timelines, and collaborate with subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and accessibility. This position is ideal for someone who can translate complex information into plain language, thrives in a collaborative environment, and is eager to innovate in instructional design and digital content creation.

Your work will directly support KUCD's mission to promote self-determination and inclusion for people with disabilities. By creating accessible, engaging learning experiences, you'll help ensure research-based practices reach the communities and professionals who need them most.

Due to complex state employment laws, the University of Kansas may be unable to hire fully remote workers for this position outside of Kansas. Specifically, we cannot currently offer employment to candidates residing in the following states: California, Delaware, Idaho, and Minnesota. We appreciate your understanding and invite interested individuals from eligible states to apply.

Job Description

60% - Instructional Design and Course Development:

• Design, develop, and maintain online courses and training materials for audiences.
• Create instructional content, job aids, and multimedia aligned with adult learning principles and accessibility standards.
• Build and manage courses in the Canvas LMS, tracking learner progress and outcomes.
• Develop AI-generated video content (e.g., Vyond) and interactive elements using Articulate 360.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts to ensure content accuracy and clarity.
• Implement accessibility, universal design, and plain language best practices.
• Use learner feedback and analytics to refine and improve content.
• Stay current on emerging technologies, AI tools, and e-learning trends.

20% - Copywriting and Editing:

• Draft and edit materials for online and print, including research summaries, infographics, video scripts, training materials, newsletters, and promotional items.
• Distill project data and findings for concise, clear, and visually engaging instructional content, including creating graphics and charts.
• Contribute to annual reports and project updates.
• Draft internal communications for leadership and support technical assistance documentation.

20% - Grant Application Support, Administrative and Event Support, and Development Assistance:

• Assist with grant proposals, particularly instructional design components.
• Provide administrative support for the Technical Assistance Team as needed (e.g., workflow management, organize and schedule meetings, communicate and coordinate with other KUCD teams).
• Help plan and execute KUCD events (e.g., annual Open House, community trainings).
• Create marketing materials to engage current and potential trainees.

Position Requirements

1. This position is designated as hybrid with the on-site location being at the KU Lawrence campus. Fully remote designation may be accepted but is not preferred.

Required Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field (e.g., education, teaching, digital/graphic design, communications, English, fine arts, or related degree) as demonstrated by application materials.
2. High degree of computer literacy as evidenced by three years of experience working with Microsoft Office Suite, as demonstrated by application materials.
3. Two years of experience designing courses on Canvas or a similar Learning Management System, as demonstrated by application materials.
4. Two years of experience creating fully responsive online courses with Articulate Rise 360 or a similar online course creation tool, as demonstrated by application materials.
5. Excellent writing skills, demonstrated by prior work as evidenced in application materials.

This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure that candidates have advanced knowledge, analytical skills and professional competencies necessary to perform the duties of the position. The level of degree is commonly recognized as the standard qualification for similar roles in the public and private sector, ensuring that the university remains competitive with industry aligned practices, enhances collaboration with external partners, and supports the delivery of services and programs that meet professional and market-driven expectations

Preferred Qualifications

1. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, InDesign, Adobe Express, and/or Illustrator) as demonstrated by application materials.
2. Six months of experience using AI video creation tools, such as Vyond.
3. One year of experience managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
4. One year of experience producing multimedia content, such websites or video.
5. One year of experience working on grant-funded research projects.
6. One year of experience creating instructional materials targeting the disability community.