Extension Foundation Hiring Instructional Designer (Sec. 508 Compliance Expert)

Instructional Designer (Sec. 508 Compliance Expert) - full-time position

Application Deadline: open until filled

Submit your application at: https://registry.extension.org/240066471529154

Extension Foundation (EXF) is a well-established non-profit organization providing diverse services to over 100 public universities across the United States. EXF is a membership-based 501(c)(3) non-profit operating foundation formed in 2006 by Extension Directors and Administrators. EXF partners with university-based Cooperative Extension Services to increase their capacity and offers exclusive professional development to its members. EXF has multiple sources of funding, including memberships and multiple federal awards. This position is supported by the New Technologies in Agriculture Extension (NTAE) grant from USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Reporting to the Design Strategist, the Instructional Designer (Sec. 508 Compliance Expert), will provide Extension Foundation-supported teams with the New Technologies in Agriculture Extension (NTAE) and other federal grants with the following duties:

• Consultation: Provide instructional design support and advice on course development, including, but not limited to adult learning theory, digital engagement, and accessibility.
• Design & Development: Design and develop prototype eLearning courses and other instructional materials ensuring they are compliant with Section 508 standards. This may be for use on the Extension Foundation’s Campus Learning Management System (LMS) or on a partner’s LMS or similar platform. 
• Accessibility Review: Conduct thorough accessibility reviews of existing and new instructional, marketing, and outreach content.
• Recommendation & Remediation: Recommend and implement strategies and tools to remediate non-compliant content.
• Collaboration: Work closely with team members to produce accessible and engaging learning experiences.
• Training: Train team members on the importance of Section 508 compliance and best practices in instructional design for accessibility.
• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest standards, tools, and best practices related to Section 508 and accessibility in eLearning.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure all instructional materials undergo quality assurance tests for accessibility and usability.
• Other duties as assigned.

This is a fully remote position with occasional travel as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design, Education, Educational Psychology, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• [2-5 years] of experience in instructional design with an emphasis on eLearning.
• Demonstrated expertise with Section 508 compliance and other accessibility standards.
• Proficiency with eLearning authoring tools such as Articulate Storyline and Adobe Captivate, etc.
• Proficiency with virtual collaboration tools like Zoom, Slack, etc.
• Familiarity with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
• Experience in diagnosing, recommending, and applying creative learning solutions, including:
  • Instructional Technology
  • Experiential Learning
  • Customized Learning Experiences
• Excellent remote communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Software skills: Google Suite of tools, Hubspot, Slack, LMS such as Moodle, video creation and editing, and working with the Zoom platform

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in accessibility or related fields.
• Experience in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles.
• Knowledge of assistive technologies such as screen readers, captioning tools, etc.
• Experience working in Cooperative Extension and understanding of Cooperative Extension programming.
• Software skills: Google Suite of tools, Hubspot, Slack, LMS such as Moodle, video creation and editing, and working with the Zoom platform.
• Self-starter, learner, and critical thinker who thrives in a culture that is dynamic, mission-driven, and service-oriented.
• Systems thinker with an abundance and growth mindset.
• Uses a developmental design approach through pilots and iterations.
• Ability to be a positive, entrepreneurial, and high-energy team member.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively on a virtual team that values results, flexibility, and humility.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Remote work requirements (annual reimbursable allowance offered towards meeting these needs):

• PC: Capable of running current Windows or macOS versions; capable of running Zoom.
• Apps: Microsoft Office (2019 or newer) desktop applications. Google G Suite will be provided. Adobe Acrobat Pro
• Connectivity: Broadband internet connection able to support 480p live video
  480P (or better) webcam

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. 

Hours: 40 hours/week, non-exempt, benefits-eligible. 100% remote.

Benefits: health, dental, vision, flexible spending account, 403(b) retirement plan