Instructional Designer
Talascend is currently seeking a Instructional Designer for a contract opportunity with our client in Warren, Michigan.
Overview
The instructional designer supports manufacturing organizations by designing engaging, relevant learning experiences that improve safety, quality, standardized work, launch readiness, productivity, and operational performance across plant and manufacturing support environments. This role involves collaborating with stakeholders to develop high-quality learning solutions aligned with manufacturing needs.
Responsibilities
- Advise manufacturing business partners, plant stakeholders, and subject matter experts on adult learning principles and performance-based learning strategies
- Conduct needs analyses to identify performance gaps, root causes, and recommend targeted interventions
- Partner with SMEs, stakeholders, and frontline representatives through interviews, observations, and working sessions
- Design and develop learning experiences using methodologies such as ADDIE, SAM, rapid prototyping, and scenario-based learning
- Create engaging, practice-focused learning activities that mirror real manufacturing challenges
- Develop design documents, learning objectives, assessments, and success criteria
- Develop multi-modal learning assets including eLearning, ILT/VILT materials, videos, workshops, simulations, and job aids
- Write or refine instructional materials, facilitator guides, scripts, and communication pieces
- Support project management and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure aligned learning initiatives
- Support LMS setup and integration of manufacturing learning materials
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience
- 4+ years of experience in instructional design, curriculum development, or eLearning within manufacturing or technical environments
- Demonstrated work samples showcasing eLearning, ILT/VILT materials, scenario-based learning, and performance support tools
- Experience designing and developing web-based training and instructor-led training with blended learning solutions
- Strong understanding of instructional design principles and adult learning theory
- Proficiency with tools such as Articulate, Vyond, Camtasia, Adobe Suite, and Microsoft Office
- Excellent communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
- Ability to manage multiple projects with attention to accuracy and quality
- Strong consulting, collaboration, and relationship-building skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supporting plant operations, manufacturing launches, or shop-floor capability building
- Familiarity with plant operations, manufacturing processes, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Experience creating learning content for safety systems, quality processes, troubleshooting, ergonomics, or lean environments
- Knowledge of workplace safety standards and regulated operational environments
- Graphic design, visual storytelling, or user-centered design skills
- Strong facilitation skills for ILT/VILT sessions and stakeholder alignment
- Experience with Action Mapping, Design Thinking, or branching learning design
- Experience working in large, matrixed organizations with cross-functional partners
The shift for this role is standard daytime hours in a hybrid schedule: Monday and Friday remote, with occasional in-office days, and in-office work Tuesday through Thursday. Travel is rare and limited to local destinations within Michigan.
We thank all applicants for their interest. However, only those qualified individuals who closely meet the qualifications of the position will be contacted. The details of the position are only a summary, other duties may be assigned as necessary.
Background Check and Drug Screen may be required.
Talascend is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.