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Instructional Design
Instructional Design
Instructional design professionals create learning materials that are engaging and effective. Whether designing worksheets, courses, or multi-modal programs, practitioners understand adult learning principles and apply theories and methodologies in their work. These professionals know a "one size fits all" approach doesn't work. They value the needs assessment process to ensure their work aligns with and drives business impact. They understand that an e-learning course has different requirements than an in-person class. They apply their craft to make relevant content for each modality. The top three things those currently in Instructional Design roles report doing to move into their current role are earning a certification, joining a professional association, and reading industry books or magazines.
Instructional Design Roles by Level
Instructional Design
Individual Contributor
0%
Your Capability Model self-assessment
alignment with this role

Instructional designers who are individual contributors may work solo or on a team and are responsible for designing and creating learning materials that align with adult learning theory.

Crossover careers:K-12 Teachers/Educators, Higher Education, Psychology/Counseling, Academic Administration
Average Salary Range: $75,000-99,999
Common Job Titles:
  • Instructional Designer
  • Learning Experience Designer
  • Instructional Specialist
  • E-Learning Developer/Designer
Instructional Design
Project/Program Lead
0%
Your Capability Model self-assessment
alignment with this role

Program or project leads within instructional design work as curriculum designers and have additional responsibilities for program development and management. They may have responsibilities for building relationships with stakeholders and assessing learning analytics.

Crossover careers:K-12 Teachers/Educators, Higher Education, Academic Administration, Psychology/Counseling
Average Salary Range: $90,000-110,000
Common Job Titles:
  • Senior Instructional Designer
  • Instructional Design Manager
  • Instructional Design Program Manager
  • Instructional Design Project Manager
Instructional Design
People Leader
0%
Your Capability Model self-assessment
alignment with this role

People leaders on instructional design teams are responsible for leading the team members and managing their work. These leaders understand the organizational learning strategies and ensure their team's work supports them. They often have budget responsibilities.

Average Salary Range: $100,000-124,999
Common Job Titles:
  • Instructional Design and Development Manager
  • Senior Manager of Instructional Design
Instructional Design
Department Head
0%
Your Capability Model self-assessment
alignment with this role

Instructional design department leads oversee all aspects of the instructional design process for an organization. They may oversee all L&D operations and they engage external partners and internal stakeholders to ensure their team's work is aligned to business objectives.

Average Salary Range: $125,000-149,999
Common Job Titles:
  • Director of Instructional Design
  • Vice President of Instructional Design
  • Head of Instructional Design
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