Instructional Systems Specialist

Overview : Pherson is seeking an Instructional Systems Specialist to join our team and help shape the future of our client's training solutions. This is a remote position suited for a self-starter who thrives independently, brings entrepreneurial energy to their work, and is eager to innovate in learning design. The ideal candidate is reliable, highly organized, and skilled at managing competing priorities without losing sight of the bigger picture. We're looking for someone who goes beyond executing tasks; generating fresh ideas and bringing creative solutions to complex instructional challenges. Strong interpersonal skills are essential: the selected individual must be comfortable working directly with clients, adept at building consensus through diplomacy and tact, and committed to finding workable solutions. They will be driven to advance the mission while maintaining the trust and confidence of all stakeholders. The Instructional System Specialist supports the design, development, modernization, and evaluation of analytic, collection, and operational workforce training programs across multiple instructional modalities in support of Intelligence Community mission requirements. Job Title/LCAT: Instructional Systems Specialist (ISS) Location: Springfield, VA (Hybrid) Operating Hours and Expectations: This is primarily a remote position with standard work hours Monday-Friday; occasional onsite presence is required Security Clearance: TS/SCI Position Type: Full-Time Key Responsibilities: Conduct formal training needs analyses and course reviews to identify workforce performance gaps within IC operations, collection, and analysis mission areas. Collaborate with stakeholders and Subject Matter Experts — in person and virtually — to design instruction aligned to IC mission requirements and operational realities. Develop and revise curriculum design guides, terminal and enabling learning objectives, course materials, job aids, and instructor notes. Design and maintain content across instructor-led, virtual, and eLearning platforms. Upload, manage, and maintain curriculum within Learning Management Systems. Develop evaluation methodologies and metrics to assess training effectiveness and learning transfer. Continuously update training content based on evaluation findings, mission shifts, policy changes, emerging capabilities, and evolving requirements. Ensure all training materials comply with Section 508 accessibility standards and applicable federal guidance. Coordinate with stakeholders and instructional teams using collaboration platforms, including Microsoft Teams. Required Education & Certification(s): A four-year degree from an accredited institution of higher learning is required in Curriculum Development, Instructional Design, Educational Technology, eLearning Development, Adult or Secondary Education, Educational Psychology, or other relevant educational degree. A minimum of 24 college credit hours in training design are required. This requirement may be substituted with a 40-hour certification in Training Design and Development and the above immediate experience requirement. Required Experience & Skills: Minimum of five years of experience designing and developing formal workforce training programs. Demonstrated understanding of adult learning theory and related frameworks. Demonstrated development of assessments, such as tests, rubrics, or checklists. Proven excellence in written and verbal communication skills. Experience with Intelligence Community training in analysis, collection, and/or operations. Demonstrated experience engaging directly with clients or stakeholders to define requirements, resolve issues, and build buy-in across diverse groups. Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a remote environment, managing workload and deadlines without direct oversight. Proven ability to navigate ambiguous or evolving requirements and deliver actionable solutions under shifting priorities. Ability to travel occasionally to client sites in Springfield, VA and Bethesda, MD, including access to SCIF environments. Desired Experience & Skills: Proficiency with instructional design tools such as Adobe Captivate, Articulate 360, and Camtasia. Experience working within Learning Management Systems such as Cornerstone, Canvas, Blackboard, or comparable platforms. Experience developing SCORM-compliant eLearning content. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams. Working knowledge of standard classroom audio-visual technologies. Working knowledge of FLETA accreditation standards. Experience applying Section 508 accessibility standards; Trusted Tester certification preferred. About Pherson: Pherson was founded in response to requests for analytic, instructional, and management support from the Intelligence Community. We are a dynamic team of driven, supportive, and highly skilled professionals dedicated to providing top quality consulting, leadership development, and training services to the US Government and commercial clients. To learn more about us and the important work we do with our clients, visit our website at www.pherson.org . Benefits: Health, dental & vision; LTD/STD & life insurance; PTO, sick leave & holidays; 401k. Equal Opportunity Employer: Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.