Instructional Design Consultant

BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
Full-timeChattanooga, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Instructional Design Consultant

Company: BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee

Location: Chattanooga, TN, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Learning & Development / Organizational Development

Date Posted: 2026-08-21

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

  • Design and develop engaging, effective learning solutions for a large healthcare organization, focusing on employee growth and business performance improvement.

  • Lead instructional development projects from analysis through implementation, utilizing the ADDIE methodology and a variety of learning modalities.

  • Leverage advanced AI capabilities to streamline content creation, enhance learner engagement, and improve the overall efficiency of training design and delivery.

  • Partner with multiple business divisions to assess training needs and create tailored learning experiences that support enterprise-wide initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Organizational Development, indicating a strategic focus on aligning learning initiatives with broader business objectives and employee development frameworks. The emphasis on AI suggests a forward-thinking approach to learning technology and content creation efficiency.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Conduct comprehensive training needs analyses in collaboration with various business units to identify performance gaps and learning objectives.

  • Design and develop a range of learning solutions, including instructor-led training (ILT), virtual instructor-led training (VILT), eLearning, microlearning, and blended learning programs.

  • Manage the end-to-end instructional development lifecycle for projects, from initial analysis and design through development, implementation, and evaluation, adhering to the ADDIE methodology.

  • Create multimedia learning assets, including graphics, animations, audio, and video content, ensuring high quality and learner engagement.

  • Edit and record audio, including voiceovers, for learning modules, utilizing professional audio editing software.

  • Utilize advanced AI tools to generate storyboards, assessment content, learning assets, and to optimize content for enhanced learner engagement and development efficiency.

  • Develop and maintain SCORM-compliant eLearning modules, ensuring seamless integration with learning management systems (LMS).

  • Evaluate the effectiveness of audiovisual materials and training programs to ensure learning objectives are met and to identify areas for improvement.

  • Contribute to the selection, development, and updating of courseware content for various delivery methods, including web-based platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a full-cycle instructional design role, encompassing needs assessment, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. The explicit mention of AI tools indicates a requirement for candidates to be proficient in leveraging these technologies for modern content creation and efficiency gains.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field (e.g., Instructional Design, Education, Human Resources, Communications) or equivalent practical work experience (4 years of professional experience in a corporate environment). Experience:

  • Minimum of 4 years of experience in website design and content development, specifically focusing on online training and course material creation.

  • At least 1 year of experience in SCORM content development.

  • At least 1 year of experience in Instructional System Design (ISD). Required Skills:

  • Proficiency in Instructional System Design (ISD) principles and the ADDIE model.

  • Expertise in Articulate 360 suite, including Storyline, Presenter, Quizmaker, and Engage.

  • Proficiency with multimedia development tools such as TechSmith Camtasia and SnagIt.

  • Experience with audio editing software (e.g., Sony Sound Forge or equivalent).

  • Ability to create multimedia learning assets and edit/record audio effectively.

  • Strong command of Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with excellent organizational and time management skills.

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills for translating complex concepts into clear, engaging learning content.

  • Strong interpersonal skills to foster effective collaboration.

  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and effectively in a team environment, sharing responsibility. Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with Adobe eLearning Suite.

  • Advanced capabilities in leveraging generative AI tools for content development, asset creation, and efficiency improvements.

  • Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS) for content delivery and tracking.

  • Experience in designing microlearning, online learning, and classroom-based training experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements are specific, with a clear distinction between general content development and SCORM/ISD experience. The emphasis on both traditional tools (Articulate, Camtasia) and advanced AI capabilities suggests a need for a candidate who can blend established best practices with innovative approaches.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Demonstrate a strong portfolio showcasing a variety of learning solutions, including eLearning modules, instructor-led materials, and blended learning designs.

  • Include case studies that highlight the application of the ADDIE methodology from needs analysis through evaluation.

  • Showcase examples of SCORM-compliant content and multimedia asset creation (graphics, audio, video).

  • Present projects that effectively translate complex business concepts into engaging, learner-centered experiences. Process Documentation:

  • Provide documentation or examples of how you approach the instructional design process, including needs assessment frameworks, design documentation (e.g., storyboards, design documents), and evaluation strategies.

  • Detail experience in managing instructional development projects, including timelines, resource allocation, and stakeholder communication.

  • Exhibit understanding of how to measure the effectiveness of learning solutions and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to training impact and ROI.

📝 Enhancement Note: A robust portfolio is critical for this role, serving as tangible proof of design capabilities, tool proficiency, and process adherence. The emphasis on translating complex concepts and demonstrating ROI through metrics is key for operations-minded candidates.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Based on the location (Chattanooga, TN), experience level (2-5 years), and the nature of the role (Instructional Design Consultant with AI emphasis), a competitive salary range for this position is estimated to be between $65,000 - $85,000 annually. Benefits:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

  • Retirement savings plan with employer matching (e.g., 401(k)).

  • Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

  • Opportunities for professional development, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.

  • Potential for remote work flexibility, allowing for a better work-life balance.

  • Employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives. Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time work hours are typically 40 hours per week. While the role is remote, maintaining consistent availability during core business hours (e.g., 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST) is expected for collaboration and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry benchmarks for Instructional Designers with 2-5 years of experience in a medium-cost-of-living area like Chattanooga, TN, considering the specialized skills (AI, Articulate 360) and the company's industry (healthcare/insurance). Benefits are standard for a large corporation like BCBST.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare Insurance (Health Services / Health & Wellness)

Company Size: Large Enterprise (BCBST is a significant employer in Tennessee)

Founded: 1945 (BCBST has a long-standing history in the region)

Team Structure:

  • This role is part of the Organizational Development team, suggesting a focus on strategic talent management and continuous improvement across the enterprise.

  • The team likely comprises various specialists, including instructional designers, training specialists, change management professionals, and organizational development consultants.

  • Expect close collaboration with HR business partners and subject matter experts (SMEs) from different business divisions. Methodology:

  • The primary methodology for instructional design is the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation).

  • Emphasis on data-driven decision-making for needs assessment and program evaluation.

  • Adoption of modern learning technologies, including AI, for efficient and engaging content creation.

  • A commitment to continuous improvement in learning programs and employee development strategies.

Company Website: https://www.bcbst.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: BCBST's long history and large scale imply a structured, process-oriented environment. The Organizational Development team likely plays a key role in driving strategic initiatives and ensuring consistent employee development practices across a complex organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is typically considered an intermediate to senior-level position within the Learning & Development or Organizational Development function. It requires a solid foundation in instructional design principles and practical experience with development tools, along with the ability to manage projects and collaborate effectively.

Reporting Structure:

  • The Instructional Design Consultant will likely report to an Instructional Design Manager, L&D Manager, or an Organizational Development Lead.

  • They will work closely with project stakeholders, SMEs, and other members of the OD/L&D team. Operations Impact:

  • As an Instructional Design Consultant, the impact is primarily on enhancing employee capabilities, improving job performance, ensuring compliance, and driving adoption of new processes or technologies.

  • Effective learning solutions contribute to increased productivity, reduced errors, improved customer satisfaction, and ultimately, the overall business performance and strategic goals of BCBST. The use of AI can amplify this impact by accelerating the deployment of critical training. Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced AI in learning, complex curriculum design, or learning analytics.

  • Leadership: Progress into roles such as Senior Instructional Designer, Lead Instructional Designer, Instructional Design Manager, or OD Manager.

  • Skill Development: Gain exposure to broader organizational development initiatives, change management, and strategic workforce planning.

  • Cross-functional Projects: Participate in high-impact, enterprise-wide projects that offer visibility and learning opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within the L&D/OD space, with opportunities to specialize, lead, or broaden one's impact within a large, stable organization. The emphasis on AI presents a unique opportunity for skill development in a rapidly evolving field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a remote position, offering flexibility and the ability to work from a home office.

Office Location(s): While remote, the primary operational hub for this role is Chattanooga, TN, indicating alignment with the Eastern Time Zone and potentially opportunities for in-person collaboration if desired or required for specific project phases.

Workspace Context:

  • The remote setup requires a dedicated, quiet workspace conducive to focused work and virtual meetings.

  • Reliable high-speed internet access is essential for seamless connectivity, especially for utilizing cloud-based tools and participating in virtual training sessions.

  • Access to company-provided software licenses and collaboration platforms will be standard. Work Schedule:

  • Standard 40-hour work week, with flexibility in daily scheduling as long as core business hours for collaboration and meetings are observed (likely 8 AM - 5 PM EST).

  • Project deadlines may occasionally require adjusted work hours, but the remote nature offers good work-life balance potential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote aspect is a key feature, appealing to professionals seeking flexibility. The Chattanooga headquarters context implies that while remote, the employee is part of a larger operational framework within Tennessee.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely conduct a phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

  • Technical Interview / Portfolio Review: A key stage will involve a deep dive into your portfolio. Be prepared to discuss your design process, rationale behind your choices, tool proficiency, and the impact of your work. Expect questions about specific projects, challenges faced, and how you leveraged instructional design principles and technologies (including AI).

  • Skills Assessment/Case Study: You might be given a small design challenge or case study to complete within a given timeframe. This could involve outlining a learning solution for a specific scenario or developing a storyboard/mock-up.

  • Hiring Manager Interview: A conversation with the hiring manager to discuss your experience in more detail, assess your approach to problem-solving, collaboration style, and alignment with team goals.

  • Final Interview: Potentially a final interview with a senior leader or key stakeholder to confirm fit and discuss strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills, particularly those involving complex content, AI integration, and successful outcomes.

  • Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

    • The Business Need/Problem
    • Your Role and Responsibilities
    • The Target Audience
    • The Instructional Design Approach (ADDIE, etc.)
    • Tools and Technologies Used (Articulate 360, AI tools, etc.)
    • Key Design Choices and Rationale
    • Learner Engagement Strategies
    • Measurement of Effectiveness/Impact (if available)
  • Highlight AI Usage: Specifically call out how you used generative AI tools to enhance efficiency, creativity, or learner experience.

  • Prepare to Walk Through: Be ready to present your portfolio live, guiding interviewers through your work and articulating your thought process clearly and concisely.

  • Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success of your learning solutions.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Review common instructional design challenges, such as designing for diverse audiences, complex technical topics, or rapid development timelines.

  • Practice breaking down a problem, identifying learning objectives, and outlining a multi-modal learning solution.

  • Be ready to articulate the benefits of different learning modalities and justify your recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential case study means candidates should be well-prepared to demonstrate practical skills and strategic thinking, not just theoretical knowledge. Explicitly showcasing AI integration will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Articulate 360 Suite: Essential for creating interactive eLearning modules, quizzes, and simulations. Deep proficiency in Storyline is expected.

  • TechSmith Camtasia & SnagIt: For screen recording, video editing, and creating visual tutorials or demonstrations.

  • Adobe eLearning Suite: May be used for graphic design, animation, or advanced eLearning development components.

  • Generative AI Tools: Proficiency in leveraging AI for content generation, storyboard creation, asset design, and efficiency gains (specific tools may vary, but understanding the capabilities is key).

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Learning Management Systems (LMS): Experience with uploading, managing, and reporting on SCORM-compliant content within an LMS is crucial. Familiarity with common LMS platforms (e.g., Cornerstone, Workday Learning) would be beneficial.

  • Data Analysis Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, the ability to interpret basic training effectiveness data from LMS reports or surveys is important.

CRM & Automation:

  • Not directly applicable to this role, as it's focused on learning development rather than sales or customer relationship management. However, understanding how training supports CRM adoption or sales enablement processes could be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on specialized eLearning development tools. Proficiency in Articulate 360 and AI tools is paramount. Experience with LMS platforms is also a strong requirement for content deployment and tracking.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to adopt new technologies (like AI) and methodologies to enhance learning effectiveness and efficiency.

  • Collaboration & Partnership: Working effectively with SMEs, business leaders, and other OD/L&D team members to achieve shared goals.

  • Learner-Centricity: Designing learning experiences with the end-user's needs, engagement, and success at the forefront.

  • Data-Driven Approach: Utilizing data to inform design decisions, measure impact, and demonstrate the value of learning initiatives.

  • Professionalism & Accountability: Delivering high-quality work on time, managing projects effectively, and taking ownership of outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with SMEs from various departments to gather content and ensure accuracy and relevance.

  • Team-Oriented: Contributing positively to team projects, sharing knowledge, and providing constructive feedback.

  • Proactive Communication: Keeping stakeholders informed of project progress, potential roadblocks, and key decisions.

  • Feedback Exchange: Open to receiving and providing feedback to continuously improve designs and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely values a blend of technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and strong interpersonal skills. A proactive, collaborative approach is essential for success in this role within a large organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing AI potential with human oversight: Effectively integrating generative AI without sacrificing quality, accuracy, or unique instructional design expertise.

  • Managing diverse stakeholder needs: Working with various business units, each with unique training requirements and priorities.

  • Rapidly evolving learning technologies: Staying current with new tools, platforms, and AI advancements in the instructional design field.

  • Measuring training ROI: Demonstrating the tangible business impact of learning programs in a complex healthcare environment.

  • Adapting to organizational change: Designing training that supports new policies, procedures, or system implementations within BCBST.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced AI in Learning Certifications/Workshops: Opportunities to deepen expertise in leveraging AI for instructional design.

  • Industry Conferences: Attending events focused on learning technologies, instructional design, and organizational development.

  • Internal Training Programs: Access to BCBST's internal development resources, potentially covering leadership, project management, or specific healthcare industry topics.

  • Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced OD professionals within BCBST.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to be at the forefront of AI adoption in learning, which can be a significant career differentiator. Overcoming challenges in stakeholder management and ROI measurement will be key to demonstrating strategic value.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe your process for conducting a training needs analysis and how you translate those needs into specific learning objectives."

  • "Walk me through a complex instructional design project from start to finish, highlighting your role, the methodology used (ADDIE), and the tools you employed. How did you ensure learner engagement?"

  • "How have you leveraged generative AI tools in your instructional design work? Provide a specific example of how AI helped streamline content development or enhance learner outcomes."

  • "Describe a situation where you had to design training for a challenging or technical subject matter. How did you approach it?"

  • "How do you measure the effectiveness of your learning solutions, and what metrics do you typically track?" Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What do you know about BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee and our mission?"

  • "How do you approach collaboration with subject matter experts (SMEs) and business stakeholders?"

  • "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to it."

  • "This role requires adaptability. How do you stay current with new trends and technologies in instructional design, especially AI?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • STAR Method: For behavioral questions, structure your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

  • Visual Aids: Use your portfolio as a live demonstration during virtual interviews. Share your screen and walk through specific examples, pointing out key design elements and your rationale.

  • Conciseness: Be clear and concise in your explanations. Focus on the most impactful aspects of each project.

  • AI Integration: Make sure to explicitly highlight where and how you incorporated AI, explaining the benefits and outcomes.

  • Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in the role, the company, and the opportunity to contribute to BCBST's learning initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss your process, justify your design decisions, and provide concrete examples, especially regarding your use of Articulate 360 and AI. Demonstrating a proactive and collaborative approach will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Instructional Design Consultant position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on the BCBST careers portal.

  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience with Articulate 360, ADDIE methodology, SCORM development, and any specific AI tools you've utilized in instructional design.

  • Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your years of experience in instructional design, content development, and project management, using keywords from the job description. Quantify achievements where possible.

  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, discussing your portfolio projects in detail, and preparing specific examples of how you've used AI to enhance learning solutions.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee's mission, values, and recent initiatives to demonstrate your understanding of their context and how your skills can contribute.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.


Application Requirements

Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience, with at least 4 years of experience in website design and content development. Proficiency in Articulate 360, Camtasia, and SCORM-compliant content creation is required, along with strong project management and communication skills.