Instructional Systems Designer (ISD)

Essnova Solutions, Inc. is an award-winning, SBA 8(a) and HUBZone certified small business delivering innovative technology and professional services to federal, state, local, and commercial clients. As a rapidly growing GovCon firm recognized for exceptionalism and innovation, Essnova empowers its partners through bold solutions and unmatched efficiency. Our recent prime contract awards and recognition as the USDA Small Disadvantaged Contractor of the Year underscore our commitment to customer success and impactful mission delivery.

We are seeking an Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) to join our team supporting FEMA Headquarters in Washington, DC, with a hybrid work arrangement. This role will play a pivotal part in enhancing the quality and effectiveness of training programs for emergency management professionals. The ISD will collaborate with subject matter experts, instructors, and leadership to review and improve course materials, ensuring alignment with adult learning principles and federal training standards.

Key responsibilities include:

• Review and analyze training materials for instructional design quality and visual presentation
• Apply the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation) to assess course development processes and deliverables
• Evaluate curriculum content for alignment with learning objectives, adult learning principles, and instructional design standards
• Support onsite and online course reviews by assessing instructional design elements of course materials including student manuals, instructor guides, visual presentations, and course design documents
• Provide written recommendations on instructional design improvements to training partners
• Work directly with SMEs, instructors, program managers, and leadership during training/course reviews
• Present instructional design review findings to stakeholders

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• 2+ years of experience in instructional design or a related field
• Prior experience supporting FEMA, emergency management, or federal government training
• Experience reviewing and analyzing training materials for instructional design quality and visual presentation
• Proficiency with instructional design tools including Articulate 360 or Storyline, Adobe Captivate, and learning management systems (such as Cornerstone)
• Proficiency with SharePoint and Microsoft Office (PowerPoint and Word)
• Knowledge of adult learning principles and learning models
• Solid understanding of the ADDIE instructional design model

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience collaborating with subject matter experts, instructors, program managers, and leadership on training/course reviews
• Experience presenting instructional design review findings to stakeholders
• Familiarity with federal training standards and emergency management curriculum
• Experience supporting hybrid or remote training environments
• Ability to provide actionable recommendations for instructional design improvements
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with visual presentation tools and multimedia integration
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off + federal holidays
• Fast-track growth in a high-accountability culture

Why Essnova

• Rapidly growing, innovation-focused GovCon firm
• High-ownership environment where your wins matter
• Direct access to leadership, zero bureaucracy
• Culture built on speed, agility, and results