10 Rewarding Instructional Design Jobs in Modern Education
by Office of Online Programs, College of Education / Feb 27, 2024
But what does an instructional designer do? Instructional design isn’t just about creating educational materials — it's about architecting experiences that engage, enlighten, and empower learners. In this blog, we’ll delve into the dynamic world of instructional design jobs and explore the pathways for those aspiring to make a significant impact in the world of education.
What is Instructional Design?
In essence, instructional design is about understanding how people learn and applying this knowledge to develop educational systems, materials, and experiences that enhance learning outcomes.
Instructional designer jobs involve a systematic process of analyzing learning needs and goals in order to develop a practical, effective solution. This process, deeply rooted in educational theory and cognitive psychology, enables instructional designers to create engaging and effective learning experiences. These experiences are tailored to diverse learners, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity across various educational contexts.
The MasterTrack®️ Certificate in Instructional Design from the College of Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign places an emphasis on both theory and application. Here, instructional design is seen not just as a set of skills, but as a critical lens through which the educational landscape is constantly re-evaluated and re-imagined. This involves a constant interplay between technology, pedagogy, and content knowledge to ensure that instructional design remains relevant, effective, and forward-thinking.
10 Exciting Careers in Instructional Design
Instructional designers play a vital role in shaping the future of education and training by creating effective learning experiences and materials. But what is an instructional designer’s role in the real world?
Below you'll find a list of diverse instructional design jobs, each with its unique focus and responsibilities.
1. Entry-Level Instructional Designer
For those just starting out on their instructional designer career, an entry-level Instructional Designer works on the development of educational programs and materials. Their responsibilities include assisting in the design of course content, creating instructional materials, and helping with the implementation of educational technologies. This role is a stepping stone for those new to the field, providing an opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and gain a deeper understanding of instructional design principles.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $67,000 to $81,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $76,000 per year.
2. Senior-Level Instructional Designer
Senior-level Instructional Designers are experts in the field, responsible for leading complex instructional design projects. They play a key role in strategic planning, innovation in educational methods, and mentoring junior staff. This role requires extensive experience and a deep understanding of instructional design, learning theory, and technology.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $88,000 to $130,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $98,000 per year.
3. Corporate Trainer
A Corporate Trainer is responsible for developing, conducting, and supervising training programs for employees in a corporate setting. They assess the training needs of the organization, develop customized training programs, and deliver training sessions. Corporate Trainers play a crucial role in enhancing the skills and knowledge of the workforce, thus contributing to the overall productivity and efficiency of the organization.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $53,000 to $87,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $61,000 per year.
4. Academic Support Coordinator
An Academic Support Coordinator focuses on developing and implementing support programs for students in educational institutions. They work with faculty, staff, and students to identify academic challenges and create strategies to improve student learning and performance. This role involves a combination of program management, student advising, and collaboration with academic departments.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $50,000 to $70,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $60,000 per year.
5. Educational Technologist
Educational Technologists integrate technology into educational settings to enhance learning experiences. They evaluate and implement educational technology tools, train educators on how to use these tools effectively and provide ongoing support. This role is critical in ensuring that technology is used in a way that enhances teaching and learning.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $58,000 to $93,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $69,000 per year.
6. E-Learning Designer
E-Learning Designers specialize in creating and optimizing online courses and learning experiences. They work on course design, content development, and the integration of interactive elements to engage learners in a virtual environment. Their role is crucial in ensuring the effectiveness and accessibility of online education within almost every industry including healthcare, business, and tech.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $70,000 to $105,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $80,000 per year.
7. Learning and Development Manager
Learning and Development Managers oversee an organization's learning and professional development programs. They assess training needs, develop and implement training strategies, and evaluate their effectiveness. This role involves leadership and strategic planning to ensure that training programs align with organizational goals.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $88,000 to $112,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $99,000 per year.
8. Curriculum Developer
After gaining experience with instructional design some people transition to Curriculum Development. Curriculum Developers focus on designing and revising educational curricula. They conduct research, collaborate with educators, and use their expertise in instructional design to develop comprehensive curriculum plans. This role is essential in ensuring that educational programs meet learning standards and are effective for diverse student populations.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $66,000 to $103,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $77,000 per year.
9. Instructional Design Consultant
Instructional Design Consultants provide expert advice and services in the field of instructional design. They work with organizations to analyze learning needs, develop instructional strategies, and implement effective training programs. This role often involves project management and collaboration with different teams.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $87,000 to $107,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $96,000 per year.
10. Director of Organizational Learning and Development
One of the highest-paying instructional design education jobs, the Director of Organizational Learning and Development is a high-level executive responsible for overseeing an organization's overall learning strategy. They design and implement programs to develop employee skills, enhance performance, and drive organizational growth. This role requires leadership, strategic thinking, and an in-depth understanding of adult learning principles and organizational development.
The salary for this position typically ranges from $174,000 to $223,000 in the U.S., with a national average salary of approximately $197,000 per year.
Get Your Certificate in Instructional Design with UIUC
Jobs for instructional designers offer diverse and exciting opportunities in the world of education. The UIUC College of Education stands at the vanguard of preparing the next generation of instructional design professionals. Our MasterTrack®️ Certificate in Instructional Design is designed to empower you with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to thrive in this dynamic field.
Embarking on this journey with UIUC means more than just acquiring a certificate — it’s about becoming part of a community that values innovation, inclusivity, and real-world impact. Our curriculum, designed by leading experts in the field, blends theoretical knowledge with practical application and ensures that you’re well-equipped to meet the demands of today’s educational design jobs.
We invite you to join us at the College of Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where your passion for education and technology will be nurtured and where your instructional design career will take flight. Apply today!