Reports To: Assistant Director, Meetings and Education

Summary: The Instructional Designer plays a key role in advancing the Society’s educational initiatives by designing, developing, and maintaining engaging, high-quality learning experiences for SSO members and stakeholders. This position collaborates with subject matter experts (SMEs) and internal staff to create effective, learner-centered content that reflects adult learning principles, supports SSO’s strategic educational goals, and adheres to nonprofit education standards.

Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional Design and Content Development

• Design and develop instructional materials for online, hybrid, and in-person programs, including courses, workshops, and webinars.
• Apply instructional design principles and adult learning theories to create engaging, outcomes-driven learning experiences.
• Collaborate with SMEs and staff to structure content, develop learning objectives, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
• Support the implementation and maintenance of eLearning programs within the SSO Learning Management System (LMS).
• Create and edit multimedia content, including slides, graphics, videos, assessments, and downloadable resources.
• Conduct learner evaluations and analyze feedback to continuously improve course design and delivery.
• Ensure accessibility and compliance with nonprofit and professional education standards (e.g., Section 508, WCAG).
• Maintain, evaluate, and troubleshoot educational materials and systems, recommending improvements to enhance learner’s experience.

Technology and Tools

• Use authoring tools such as Articulate 360, Rise, Captivate, and LMS content builders to develop interactive and accessible content.
• Leverage creative platforms such as Adobe Creative Suite, Vyond, Synthesia, WellSaid Labs, and asset libraries to enhance course production.
• Identify and apply new technologies, software, and techniques to improve educational offerings.
• Find, evaluate, and adapt graphics, videos, and other media in compliance with copyright and permissions standards.
• Write and review instructional text, scripts, and closed captions to ensure quality and clarity.

Collaboration and Team Leadership

• Partner with internal teams, external vendors, designers, narrators, and SMEs to deliver polished, engaging learning products.
• Coordinate and host webinars or live sessions with faculty and panelists, ensuring smooth execution and follow-up posting in collaboration with communications staff.
• Support onboarding of contracted instructional design resources and contribute to process improvements for the design team.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and innovation in learning design.
• Model and uphold SSO’s values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in all learning initiatives.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with documentation, scheduling, and project coordination for educational initiatives.
• Represent SSO at professional meetings and events as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the goals of the Education Department.

What We Offer

• Collaborative, mission-driven work environment that values innovation and teamwork.
• Support for professional development and continuing education.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, 401(k), and PTO.
• Hybrid schedule: four virtual workdays and one mandatory in-office day per week.
• Flexible hours and casual dress code.
• Complimentary access to an on-site fitness facility.
• Conveniently located near I-294, I-90, and I-190, easily accessible from the Rosemont CTA Blue Line station (complimentary shuttle available).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design, Education, Educational Technology, or a related field required.
• 1–3 years of experience designing and delivering educational or training programs, preferably in a nonprofit, association, or medical education setting.
• Strong knowledge of adult learning principles, instructional design models (e.g., ADDIE, SAM), and evaluation methods (e.g., Kirkpatrick Model).
• Proficiency in eLearning authoring tools (Articulate 360, Rise, Captivate), graphic design tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite), and LMS management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail and the ability to translate complex medical concepts into accessible learning.
• Strong organizational and project management skills; able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners.
• Understanding of accessibility standards (WCAG, Section 508) and commitment to inclusive learning design.
• Familiarity with social media, analytics tools, and marketing collaboration preferred.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment with flexibility for changing needs and priorities.
• 10% travel required (domestic).