Instructional Designer
Salary
$87,307.00 - $108,020.00 Annually
Location
9401 Farwest Dr SW, Lakewood, WA
Job Type
Administrative-Exempt
Job Number
A2604
Division
Equity, Engagement, and Belonging
Opening Date
06/03/2026
Closing Date
6/17/2026 5:00 PM Pacific
Position Summary
Please Note: The salary range for this position is $87,307.00 - $108,020.00 annually. The salary will be determined based on the candidates qualifications and related experience. Typically, new hires start no higher than $90,945.00/year, based on Pierce Colleges Administrative/Exempt Compensation Plan.
The mission of Pierce College is to create quality educational opportunities for a diverse community of learners to thrive in an evolving world. The Pierce College District is committed to being an anti-racist institution; to truly be anti-racist we must work deliberately to eliminate barriers that have prevented the most promising and capable students from entering and thriving in college.
The Employee Learning and Development (ELAD) Instructional Designer consults with faculty, staff, and ELAD team members to promote the effective use of technology, instructional design and adult learning theory to design and deliver equitable, inclusive, and accessible learning experiences that respect human dignity. The ELAD Instructional Designer will further improve student learning in multiple instructional modalities (e.g., online, hybrid, and in-person). The position requires the ability to work collaboratively within our matrix organization with cultural humility and vulnerability.
The ELAD Instructional Designer reports to the Instructional Design Manager. This position is part of the ELAD team and is a key team member of the Pierce College Districts professional learning and development effort, responsible for collaborative creation and implementation of district-wide professional learning and development programming. Programming helps build faculty and staff knowledge around equity, inclusivity, and student engagement, success, and completion, by increasing access to cohesive professional development and fostering effective communication strategies and systems between all college employees.
Major areas of focus include (a) equity-focused course design and teaching consultations, (b) faculty and staff professional development in the use of inclusive pedagogy, practices, and technologies, (c) project management to support faculty collaboration at the department level, and (d) the integration of new educational technologies into curriculum and course design. The ELAD Instructional Designer is well-versed in inclusive pedagogical strategies, design-thinking, accessible design, project management, adult learning theory, and instructional technology. This position requires regular and consistent attendance.
About the District
Pierce College is a high-performing, mission-driven, data-informed, student-focused district committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. For 55 years, Pierce College has developed a national reputation for academic excellence and support services to ensure student success. The district is proud of the many awards and recognitions it has received. Pierce College is an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction and was the 2017 recipient of their prestigious Leah Meyer Austin Award, given for measurable improvements in student outcomes.
Named as a Top 5 Finalist and a Rising Star for the 2019 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, Pierce College Fort Steilacoom was recognized for exceptional achievements in student learning, certificate and degree completion while in community college and after transferring to a four-year institution, employment and earnings rates after graduation, and access for and success of minority and low-income students. Pierce College District was named as a Top 10 finalist for the 2021 Aspen Prize and a Top 25 for 2023. Pierce is also one of 30 original AACC Guided Pathways colleges and one of first five College Spark Washington pathways colleges. We have bold goals to have all students on a career pathway to increase completion rates for all students and to close achievement gaps by 2027. Want a feel for our District. Take a peek with aerial campus views!
Pierce College at Fort Steilacoom
Located on a beautiful 140-acre site adjacent to a 340-acre community, recreational park, and Waughop Lake.
Pierce College at Puyallup
Located on an expansive site with 125-acres of wooded land including modern facilities and beautiful hideaways.
Pierce College at JBLM
Located at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord military sites, serving many of our military and active duty families serving our country.
Our colleges enjoy a strong presence in the communities in which they serve and participate in numerous partnerships with business, community, government, and educational organizations.
Essential Functions
The Employee Learning and Development (ELAD) Instructional Designer will be responsible for the following, but not limited to:
Faculty Support and Collaboration
Design, develop, and deliver high quality, inclusive, and accessible learning experiences for faculty and staff.
Support faculty in the design and development of accessible course materials that meet ADA, section 508, and other relevant standards.
Work with faculty to design and develop course content that promotes Black and Brown excellence while representing a voice beyond their individual worldview.
Assist faculty in humanizing course content to provide a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive learning
environment.
Continuously innovate in incorporating Pierce College's inclusive pedagogy framework and designing race-conscious and active learning experiences (in-person, web-enhanced, online, hybrid) based on assessment and evidence/data analysis.
Collaborate with faculty and apply knowledge of andragogy/pedagogy and instructional design processes to design/redesign and develop courses, ensuring alignment between learning outcomes and instructional materials, activities, and assessments to enhance student success.
Support faculty in integrating multimedia, video content, and other educational technologies as appropriate.
Collaborate with faculty to design and develop inclusive, accessible, authentic, and diverse assessments, activities, and materials.
Consistently initiate, practice, and evaluate strategies to advance inclusivity and accessibility in design, teaching, learning and professional development.
Staff Support and Collaboration
Offer creative and innovative ideas for teaching, course design, and integrating learning technology to promote student learning and success.
Research and evaluate emerging instructional technologies and collaborate with the educational technology team to make recommendations that support teaching and learning.
Coordinate vendor demonstrations of new and existing technology tools and gather faculty feedback to inform technology selection and purchasing decisions.
Collaborate with college partners to design, develop, deliver, and evaluate a broad range of professional and organizational development opportunities for faculty and staff.
Work with faculty and staff development teams to promote communication about employee development and learning with all stakeholders.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education Required
OR
Experience Required
Experience designing high quality academic courses for online or hybrid delivery and/or re-designing traditional on-ground courses for online or hybrid delivery.
Knowledge of technical tools and platforms for delivering engaging and media-rich online learning content, as well as trends in educational technology.
Advanced knowledge of applying adult learning theories, instructional design principles, and educational methodologies in creative ways.
Experience in hands-on training delivery, live facilitation, or teaching, ideally, for adult learners in a higher education context.
Experience working with faculty and team members to experiment with emerging technologies and teaching strategies, and conducting research on their effective use.
Experience designing and developing accessible digital content aligned with Section 508 and other relevant standards.
Special Requirements
Required Competencies
Teamwork
Contribute positively to a departmental culture that is welcoming and engaging, where faculty and staff feel supported in improving learning design and delivery.
Strong collaboration and iteration skills, including collective ideation, providing actionable feedback, and incorporating feedback into revisions.
Foster innovation to support the institutional mission by contributing to cross-departmental shared governance teams.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Experience and/or demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and promoting Black and Brown excellence.
Build trusting working relationships characterized by cooperation and mutual respect.
Commitment to supporting and contributing to an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment.
Problem Solving
Resolve conflicts, disagreements, and complaints in a constructive manner and contribute to a work environment where conflict leads to positive change.
Identify the need for change and effectively manage both stable and changing priorities.
Exercise sound judgment and adaptability when dealing with ambiguous situations.
Project Management
Lead faculty and staff teams that include subject matter experts, program directors/deans, eLearning team members, and others, ensuring resources are effectively deployed, timelines and standards are met, and collaboration is maintained.
Manage multiple simultaneous learning design and delivery projects with internal and external collaborators and stakeholders.
Training & Consultations
Knowledge of inclusive pedagogical strategies, design thinking, adult learning theory, instructional technologies, and authentic assessment.
Recommend inclusive pedagogical strategies and implement teaching and learning technology tools to meet identified needs.
Design, develop, and deliver online, hybrid, or in-person training as needed.
Technical Expertise
Experience with eLearning technology tools, project management tools, and learning management systems (Canvas experience preferred).
Knowledge of tools and platforms used to deliver engaging, media-rich online learning content, and awareness of trends in educational technology and its effectiveness.
Experience creating accessible digital materials.
Experience with HTML, CSS, and visual design tools.
Application Process
To be considered for this position, applicants must:
Meet the required qualifications as outlined in this announcement.
Complete the online application profile at https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/hr and apply for the specific job opening.
Cover Letter: Upload (attach) a cover letter that addresses how you meet the required qualifications as outlined in this announcement.
Resume: Upload (attach) detailed résumé of all educational and professional experience.
Transcripts: Transcripts are not required in order to apply for this position; however, if you are selected for an interview, you will be asked to bring copies of unofficial transcripts showing completion of the required level of education and/or coursework. International transcript must include a foreign transcript evaluation. For a list of approved credential evaluation services, visit: https://www.naces.org/members.
Please note: Certain positions require specific levels of educational attainment such as a post-secondary degree, licensures or certifications. In order to evaluate applicant materials to determine if the minimum qualifications are met, information regarding your education and experience should be included in your application materials.
Applications without transcripts attached, may receive notification that their application materials are incomplete. If you receive a notice and information has been provided elsewhere in your applications materials, please disregard. (Unofficial transcripts acceptable for application process; official transcripts required upon hire).
References: Upload (attach) a list of at least three (3) professional references with names, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses. One of which must be your current or most recent supervisor. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted.
Supplemental Question: Provide a response to the following question.
Briefly describe how you have worked in your previous or current positions to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion in your organizations and how you would do that in this position. Please limit your response to a maximum of 500 words.
To learn more about our Equity, Engagement, and Belonging efforts, please visit: https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/about/mission-vision/equity-engagement-belonging/.
Special Note
To ensure consideration, application materials should be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on the closing date.
All correspondence regarding your application status will be sent to the email address associated with your SCHOOLJOBS.COM account. Please make sure to check your spam folder periodically, in the case of an automated, incorrect delivery.
Terms of Employment
This is a full-time, administrative-exempt position. The primary work location will be at Pierce College, Fort Steilacoom campus. Frequent travel to Pierce College campuses or other sites may occur.
Standard work hours are between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with occasional evening and weekend hours required. This position may be eligible for occasional remote work once the incumbent is established in the role. Regular and consistent attendance is required.
Salary & Benefits
The salary range for this position is $87,307.00 - $108,020.00 annually. The salary will be determined based on the candidates qualifications and related experience. Typically, new hires start no higher than $90,945.00/year, based on Pierce Colleges Administrative/Exempt Compensation Plan.
Your paycheck is just part of the total compensation package. There is an outstanding benefits package which is worth an additional value equivalent to about 30% of your salary. A comprehensive health care benefits package for you and your dependents includes medical, dental and vision insurance. Life and long- term disability insurance plans; vacation, sick and personal leave; reduced tuition; and retirement benefits are also provided.
Physical Work Environment
This position works indoors in an office environment that requires visual concentration, dexterity, and precision, and is subject to frequent noise and interruptions, and operates in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Reasonable Accommodation
Applicants with disabilities who require assistance with the application and employment process will be accommodated to the extent reasonably possible. Requests should be made to the District Human Resources Office by calling 253-964-7342. Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing may dial 711 to place a call through Washington Relay, the states free telecommunication access service.
Screening & Interview Process
Only those candidates who have complied with the application process and meet the required qualifications will be considered. Following the review of application materials, the most qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. Check the email account you used for the application process for communication regarding the status of your application. Application materials submitted to Pierce College are the property of the College and will not be returned.
Please Note
This is a competitive selection process. Your application materials will be reviewed and evaluated based on the minimum qualifications listed for the position. Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the district's needs will be eligible for further consideration.
Notification of application status normally occurs 4 to 6 weeks after the closing date. Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include written, oral and performance examinations, and final interviews.
Conditions of Employment
Prior to the start of employment, finalist(s) for this position will be subject to a pre-employment background check as a condition of employment. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position.
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Conditional offer letters will be accompanied by a declaration and authorization to release information form to be completed by the applicant. Disclosure is required under Washington State Law RCW 28B.112.080.
An offer of employment will not carry with it any responsibility or obligation on the part of the district to sponsor an H-1B visa. In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, proof of authorization to work in the United States will be required at the time of hire.
Pierce College has adopted a Drug Free Workplace policy. As a condition of employment, employees must agree to abide by the requirements established in that policy.
Equal Opportunity
The Pierce College District is an equal opportunity employer. The Board of Trustees and Pierce College District are committed to providing equal opportunity and will not discriminate in terms and conditions of employment and personnel practices. Decisions are made without regard to race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal.
For more information about this position or assistance regarding your application, contact Human Resources at: jobs@pierce.ctc.edu.
Questions regarding equal employment opportunities or discrimination may be directed to the following:
Kelly Benson - Interim Title IX Coordinator & ADACO/Section 504 Coordinator
titleix@pierce.ctc.edu
(253) 964-6716
Deena Forsythe - Vice President for Human Resources
(253) 964-6586
Paula Henson-Williams - District Affirmative Action Officer
(253) 864-3229
More than Just a Paycheck!
Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and families are covered by medical (including vision) and dental insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums ranging from $25.00 per month for individual coverage to $483.00 for full family coverage (the state pays dental premiums). Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses.
Employees are also covered by basic life and long term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts. To view coverage choices and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website.
Retirement and Supplemental Plans
New Administrative employees are members of an employer matched retirement program administered by TIAA. For additional information, check out the TIAA web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the State Board Voluntary Investment Program (SBVIP), administered by TIAA. This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Leave
Administrative employees begin accruing 8 hours of sick leave starting their first month of employment, as well as 6 days of personal leave and 22 days of vacation leave per year.
Holidays
Full-time employees are entitled to ten paid holidays and a personal holiday of their choice.
Tuition Reimbursement
Administrative employees working half-time or more may take space-available classes for a reduced rate through our Employee Learning and Development program.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness:
At Pierce College, we value the contributions of our employees and strive to support their professional and personal growth. One significant benefit of working with us is our eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. As an employee of a qualifying public service organization, you may be eligible to have your federal student loans forgiven after making 120 qualifying payments (10 years). This program is designed to support those who dedicate their careers to public service, giving you the opportunity to significantly reduce your student loan debt while making a positive impact in the community.
Financial Peace of Mind: With Public Service Loan Forgiveness, you can focus on your mission to serve others without the burden of overwhelming student loan debt, allowing you to dedicate your skills and talents to providing quality educational opportunities to a diverse community of learners to thrive in an evolving world.
Flexible Repayment Options: We encourage our employees to explore various repayment plans, including income-driven options that can make monthly payments more manageable during your service as a public employee.
Join Our Dedicated Community Now:
If you are committed to helping Pierce College become an anti-racist institution; ensuring that every student in the Pierce College District feels valued, respected, and inspired to achieve their goals than Pierce College needs you! We provide a brave space for Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color (BIPOC), LGBTQ/QTPOC students, students with disabilities, and all students and staff to seek refuge, and an opportunity for them to cultivate their strengths, intelligence, resilience, and creativity. This role that not only enhances your career but also offers financial benefits through programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness. We encourage you to apply!
Discounted Health Education Center Membership
Employees of the college receive a discount on Health Education Center membership, which provides access at both campuses to a complete set of cardiovascular and strength training equipment and a full gymnasium at the Fort Steilacoom campus. Personal trainers and physical education classes are also available for an additional fee.
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Briefly describe how you have worked in your previous or current positions to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion in your organizations and how you would do that in this position. Please limit your response to a maximum of 500 words. To learn more about our Equity, Engagement, and Belonging efforts, please visit: https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/about/mission-vision/equity-engagement-belonging/.
Required Question
Employer Pierce College
Address 9401 Farwest Drive SW
Lakewood, Washington, 98498
Phone 253.964.7342
Website https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/hr