Instructional Designer

Primary Purpose/Scope

Bluefield University seeks a detail-oriented and collaborative Part-Time Instructional Designer to support the ongoing development and redevelopment of online courses. Reporting directly to the Director of Instructional Design, this position works closely with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to build high-quality, engaging learning experiences within the Canvas LMS. The successful candidate will ensure that all course components align with the university’s pedagogical standards, accessibility requirements, and Christ-centered mission.

Essential Duties, Responsibilities, And Functions

Course Development & Redevelopment

Collaborate with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to translate academic content into effective online learning modules. Build, update, and refine course shells in Canvas, ensuring consistent use of university templates and navigation standards. Assist in the migration of legacy course content into updated formats that meet current university procedures. Integrate multimedia elements, including video, interactive graphics, and digital assessments, to enhance student engagement.

Standards & Compliance

Ensure all developed courses adhere to established university instructional design standards and quality rubrics. Verify that all course materials meet ADA Section 508 and WCAG accessibility requirements. Maintain institutional branding and aesthetic consistency across all assigned course projects.

Collaboration & Communication

Participate in regular project check-ins with the Director of Instructional Design to report on development milestones. Provide technical guidance to SMEs on the capabilities and best practices of the Canvas LMS. Support the quality assurance (QA) process by identifying and correcting broken links, formatting errors, or navigation hurdles before course launch.

Required

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design, Education, or a related field. Minimum of 2 years of experience developing online courses, specifically within the Canvas LMS. Strong understanding of instructional design principles and adult learning theory. Proficiency with digital media tools (e.g., Canva, Camtasia, or Articulate) and Microsoft Office 365.

Preferred

Master’s degree in a related field. Experience working in a higher education environment, particularly within a faith-based institution. Familiarity with Quality Matters (QM) or similar online course quality rubrics.

Ergonomic Requirements

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. This is a sedentary role requiring extensive use of a computer, dual monitors, and peripheral devices.

Working Conditions and Environment

This position is a part-time, remote-eligible role for Bluefield University Online. The employee must provide a professional home office environment with reliable high-speed internet. Hours are flexible but must align with scheduled meetings with the Director of Instructional Design and faculty SMEs.

A Christian commitment and lifestyle that acknowledges a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a personal commitment to the Christian purpose and mission of Bluefield University. Professional appearance and presentation in the virtual working environment.

This position is subject to at least an annual evaluation based upon the job duties, responsibilities, and functions as set forth above, with particular emphasis on the timely and accurate completion of course development projects.

The job duties, responsibilities, functions, and requirements delineated above should not be interpreted as an all-inclusive list. Additional duties, responsibilities, functions, and requirements may be assigned as deemed appropriate. The University reserves the right to change or reassign job duties, responsibilities, and functions, or combine positions at any time. The University maintains its status as an at-will employer.

To apply for this position, please visit https://www.bluefield.edu/employment/ to complete the electronic staff employment application and upload the following:

Letter of interest Resume or Curriculum Vitae Names and full contact information for at least three professional references Statement of Christian Faith

Hard copy application materials may be sent to the Human Resources Department at Bluefield University, 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, VA 24605.

Bluefield University is a Christ-centered learning community developing servant leaders to transform the world. We are looking to hire employees who will embrace this mission.

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