AP Literature and Composition Content Designer

Arch Ford
Full_timePlumerville, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: AP Literature and Composition Content Designer Company: Arch Ford Education Cooperative Location: Plumerville, Arkansas (Remote) Job Type: Other (Contract) Category: Education / Content Design Date Posted: December 05, 2025 Experience Level: 2-5 Years (Mid-Level) Remote Status: Remote Solely

🚀 Role Summary

  • Develop and script high-quality digital curriculum content for AP Literature and Composition courses, aligning with state standards or applicable content standards.
  • Curate, create, and ensure accessibility and copyright compliance for all digital learning materials, including learning objects and video scripts.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including specialists, agencies, and developers, in a phased approach to content production.
  • Design diverse digital resources and create comprehensive storyboards and scope and sequence documents to facilitate mastery-based student learning outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Content Designer," the responsibilities and required qualifications heavily lean towards instructional design and curriculum development within an educational technology context. The "Other" employment type and contract length suggest a project-based role rather than a permanent position. The remote nature is explicitly stated, making it a fully distributed role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with subject matter experts, instructional designers, and developers to script and produce engaging digital curriculum content for AP Literature and Composition, adhering to state or national content standards.
  • Research, curate, and create accessible, copyright-compliant digital assets, including text, multimedia, and interactive elements, for online learning environments.
  • Develop detailed storyboards and comprehensive scope and sequence documents that map out the learning journey and content progression for the assigned course.
  • Design and script various learning objects, including interactive exercises, video content, and assessments, grounded in research-based best practices for online pedagogy.
  • Participate actively in virtual and/or in-person collaborative team meetings, design sprints, and professional development sessions to enhance personal skills and project contributions.
  • Meticulously review and verify content for accuracy, pedagogical appropriateness, and legal compliance, with a particular focus on copyright and accessibility standards.
  • Manage multiple content development tasks, prioritize effectively, and adapt to changing project requirements to meet strict deadlines within the contract period.
  • Maintain adherence to all Virtual Arkansas and Arch Ford ESC policies, regulations, and standards for curriculum development and digital content creation.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of content design processes and methodologies through feedback and active participation in team discussions.
  • Undertake other assigned duties that support the overall goals of the content development team and Virtual Arkansas initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a practical, hands-on approach to content creation, including scripting and storyboarding, which is typical for roles focused on rapid digital curriculum development. The mention of "mastery-based" learning, "accessible" content, and "copyright-compliant" content highlights key instructional design principles and regulatory considerations in modern educational content creation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in English, Education, Curriculum Development, or a related field is the minimum requirement.
  • A Master's degree in a relevant discipline is highly desired, indicating a preference for advanced academic preparation in educational content or subject matter expertise.

Experience:

  • A minimum of three (3) years of experience in blended or online teaching is desired, providing practical insight into student engagement and learning in digital environments.
  • Prior experience in online course development and design is highly desired, demonstrating a proven track record in creating digital learning experiences from a pedagogical and technical standpoint.
  • Possession of current Teacher Licensure for AP Literature and Composition, or a closely related content area and grade level, is a mandatory requirement for content accuracy and pedagogical validation.

Required Skills:

  • Exceptional Verbal and Written Communication Skills: Ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely, essential for scripting content and collaborating with diverse teams.
  • Strong Interpersonal and Teamwork Skills: Capacity to work effectively within a collaborative, remote team environment, fostering positive working relationships.
  • Proficiency in Digital Tools and Platforms: Competence in utilizing various digital content creation tools, learning management systems (LMS), and collaboration software.
  • Meticulous Organizational Skills and Attention to Detail: Crucial for managing multiple content assets, ensuring accuracy, and adhering to strict content standards and deadlines.
  • Efficient Time Management Skills: Proven ability to prioritize tasks, manage workload effectively, and consistently meet project deadlines in a remote setting.
  • Adaptability and Learning Agility: Willingness and capacity to learn and integrate new technologies, methodologies, and feedback into the content design process.
  • Creative Writing and Research Abilities: Essential for developing engaging narrative scripts, conducting background research, and ensuring content depth and accuracy.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with specific Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Canvas, Blackboard, or Moodle.
  • Familiarity with accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.1) and inclusive design principles.
  • Knowledge of instructional design models (e.g., ADDIE, SAM) and learning theories.
  • Experience with multimedia scripting for educational videos or interactive simulations.
  • Proficiency in graphic design or multimedia editing tools for basic content enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for Teacher Licensure is a critical qualifier, indicating that practical teaching experience and subject matter expertise are paramount. The emphasis on "blended/online teaching experience" and "online course development" suggests the role is deeply embedded in digital learning environments, requiring an understanding of effective online pedagogy.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Demonstration of Digital Content Creation: Showcase examples of created digital learning materials, including scripts, storyboards, interactive modules, or multimedia lessons, highlighting the design process and pedagogical rationale.
  • Evidence of Accessibility and Copyright Compliance: Provide examples or explanations of how accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) and copyright considerations were integrated into content development.
  • Scope and Sequence Documentation: Include samples of course scope and sequence documents or curriculum maps that illustrate logical content flow and learning progression.
  • Project Management and Collaboration Examples: If possible, illustrate how you managed content development projects, met deadlines, and collaborated with teams, potentially through project summaries or case studies.

Process Documentation:

  • Workflow Design and Optimization: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their process for developing digital content, from initial concept and research to final scripting and review, emphasizing efficiency and quality control.
  • Content Curation and Creation Standards: Demonstrate an understanding of best practices for curating external resources and creating original content that is engaging, accurate, and pedagogically sound.
  • Accessibility and Compliance Integration: Be ready to explain the steps taken to ensure content is accessible to all learners and adheres to copyright laws and institutional policies.
  • Measurement and Feedback Integration: Ability to discuss how feedback from subject matter experts, instructional designers, and quality assurance processes is incorporated to refine content.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a content design role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase the final output but also the candidate's process, including how they approach research, scripting, storyboarding, and ensuring compliance. The emphasis on "phased approach" and "collaborative team meetings" suggests that demonstrating collaborative workflows within the portfolio will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • The stated compensation is $8,000 for the contract period (January - December 2026), minus applicable taxes, retirement, and fees. This is a project-based compensation structure, not a traditional annual salary.
  • Estimated Hourly Equivalent: Assuming a 40-hour work week for 10 months (approximately 40 weeks), this equates to roughly 1600 hours. The effective hourly rate would be approximately $5.00/hour ($8,000 / 1600 hours). This is significantly below standard market rates for instructional design or content creation roles, likely reflecting the nature of contract work or specific funding for this project.
  • Regional Context: The role is based in Plumerville, Arkansas, a state where average wages are generally lower than national averages. However, for specialized roles like AP content design, a premium is typically expected. The stated compensation is unusually low for a contract role requiring specialized skills and a Bachelor's degree.

Benefits:

  • This position is a contract role, and standard full-time employee benefits (e.g., health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans) are typically not included unless explicitly stated.
  • The primary benefit is the opportunity to work remotely and gain experience in digital curriculum design for AP courses.
  • Professional development opportunities are mentioned, which could include access to training related to content design or online pedagogy.

Working Hours:

  • While not explicitly stated as a fixed 40-hour work week, the contract length and implied workload suggest an expectation of significant contribution over the 10-month period. The role is described as "Telework from home office," implying flexibility in daily scheduling as long as deadlines are met.
  • The "Working Hours" derived as 40 hours/week is an assumption based on typical full-time contract roles; actual hours may vary based on the project's demands and the individual's efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation of $8,000 for a full year contract is exceptionally low for a role requiring a Bachelor's degree, teaching licensure, and specialized content design skills. This suggests it might be a stipend for specific deliverables or a grant-funded position with limited resources. Candidates should carefully consider the hours required versus the compensation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Education / Educational Services Company Size: Arch Ford Education Cooperative is part of the public education system in Arkansas, likely comprising a network of schools and educational service centers. Virtual Arkansas, as a program, specifically focuses on expanding online learning opportunities for students across the state. Founded: Arch Ford Education Cooperative was established to provide shared services and support to member school districts. Virtual Arkansas was launched to address the growing need for flexible and accessible online educational options.

Team Structure:

  • The Content Designer will report to the "Director of Design, Development, & Project Management," indicating a structured project management approach to curriculum development.
  • The role involves collaboration with "specialists, agencies, and developers," suggesting a cross-functional team environment with various external and internal stakeholders.
  • The team likely includes other content designers, instructional designers, subject matter experts, and technical developers, all working towards common curriculum development goals.

Methodology:

  • Phased Approach to Content Production: Content development follows a structured, multi-stage process, likely involving planning, scripting, design, development, review, and revision.
  • Data-Driven and Research-Based Practices: The curriculum content is designed to be "holistic, accessible, mastery-based," and based on "research-based best practices," indicating a commitment to effective pedagogical strategies and student outcomes.
  • Collaboration and Professional Development: Emphasis is placed on teamwork, communication, and continuous learning through collaborative meetings and professional development sessions.

Company Website: https://www.archford.org/ and https://virtualarkansas.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: Arch Ford Education Cooperative and Virtual Arkansas operate within the public education sector. The culture is likely collaborative and focused on educational mission. The remote nature of this role means communication and self-discipline are key cultural elements for success. The emphasis on "state content standards" points to a compliance-driven environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level specialist in educational content design. It requires specific subject matter expertise (AP Literature) combined with technical skills in digital content creation and instructional design principles. It is not a management role but a critical individual contributor position.

Reporting Structure: The Content Designer reports directly to the Director of Design, Development, & Project Management. This implies a clear reporting line and project oversight, with opportunities for feedback and guidance from a senior program leader.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is on the quality and effectiveness of digital learning experiences for students pursuing AP Literature and Composition. High-quality content directly contributes to student success in AP exams, college readiness, and the overall reputation of Virtual Arkansas and Arch Ford's educational offerings. The work influences curriculum design standards and the adoption of digital learning methodologies within the state's educational system.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization in AP Curriculum Design: Deepen expertise in designing content for Advanced Placement courses, potentially leading to opportunities in other AP subjects or curriculum leadership roles within Virtual Arkansas.
  • Instructional Design Skill Development: Through collaboration and professional development, enhance skills in instructional design methodologies, learning technologies, and digital pedagogy, which are transferable across various educational and corporate training environments.
  • Portfolio Expansion: The contract period provides a significant opportunity to build a robust portfolio of high-quality digital curriculum content, showcasing expertise to future employers or for internal advancement.
  • Networking within Educational Technology: Engage with a network of educators, specialists, and developers within the Virtual Arkansas ecosystem, fostering connections for future collaborations or career opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a contract role, the experience gained is highly valuable for anyone looking to specialize in instructional design or curriculum development for online learning, particularly within the K-12 AP space. The reporting structure to a Director suggests exposure to higher-level project management and strategic educational planning.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a fully remote (Telework) position. The "home office" is the primary workspace. Office Location(s): While the derived location is Plumerville, Arkansas, the role is explicitly "Remote Solely" and "Telework from home office," meaning physical presence in Plumerville or any specific office is not required. Candidates can likely work from anywhere within the United States, though potentially with a preference for Arkansas residents due to the nature of state educational programs.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Remote Environment: The workspace is virtual, relying heavily on digital communication tools for collaboration with team members, specialists, and project managers.
  • Technology-Centric: Requires a reliable internet connection and personal computer capable of running content creation software and participating in virtual meetings. Access to specific software or platforms may be provided by Arch Ford or Virtual Arkansas.
  • Independent Work Focus: The role demands self-discipline, excellent time management, and the ability to work autonomously while staying connected with the team and project goals.

Work Schedule:

  • The contract runs from January to December 2026.
  • While specific daily hours are not defined, the nature of content creation and collaboration suggests a commitment equivalent to a full-time role (approximately 40 hours per week) is likely expected to meet project deadlines. The flexibility of a remote setup allows for managing personal schedules, provided work is completed efficiently and deadlines are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote nature is a key feature, offering flexibility but also requiring strong self-management skills. Candidates should ensure they have a suitable home office setup and reliable internet. The "Telework from home office" phrasing suggests that while remote, it's still considered a formal work arrangement within the organization's structure.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Review of resume and application for minimum qualifications (degree, licensure, experience).
  • Skills Assessment/Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to submit a portfolio showcasing their digital content design work, scripting samples, or curriculum development projects. This is a critical stage.
  • Interviews: Expect one or more interviews, likely conducted via video conference. These may include:
    • Behavioral Questions: To assess teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and adaptability.
    • Technical/Scenario-Based Questions: To gauge understanding of instructional design principles, AP Literature content, digital content creation best practices, and copyright compliance.
    • Portfolio Walkthrough: A dedicated session to discuss specific projects within the portfolio, explaining your role, process, and outcomes.
  • Final Selection: Based on overall fit, skills, experience, and portfolio quality.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in digital content design, scripting, instructional design for online learning, and AP-level content.
  • Highlight AP Literature Content: If possible, include a sample that specifically relates to AP Literature and Composition, demonstrating your subject matter expertise.
  • Showcase Process, Not Just Product: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the initial problem or objective, your design process (including research, scripting, storyboarding), and the final outcome or impact. Use visuals where appropriate.
  • Emphasize Accessibility and Compliance: Explicitly state how you ensured content was accessible and copyright-compliant.
  • Quantify Results (if possible): While difficult for curriculum design, if you have data on student engagement, learning outcomes, or feedback, include it.
  • Format for Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and professional in appearance. A PDF document or a dedicated online portfolio is recommended.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Content Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario where you might be asked to outline a plan for creating a specific learning module or lesson for AP Literature, including key topics, learning objectives, and potential digital activities.
  • Scripting Exercise: You might be asked to write a short script for an educational video or an interactive element, demonstrating your ability to translate learning objectives into engaging content.
  • Copyright/Accessibility Quiz: Understand basic principles of fair use and copyright, as well as common accessibility features relevant to digital content.
  • Collaboration Simulation: Be ready to discuss how you would collaborate with a subject matter expert or a developer to bring a content idea to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and specific skills like scripting and storyboarding suggests that the interview process will be highly practical and focused on demonstrable abilities rather than just theoretical knowledge. Candidates should prepare a portfolio that clearly shows their ability to translate educational standards into engaging digital learning experiences.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Content Management Systems (CMS)/Learning Management Systems (LMS): Familiarity with platforms such as Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, or similar educational LMSs is crucial for understanding how content is delivered and managed.
  • Scripting and Writing Tools: Standard word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs) for scripting learning objects and video content.
  • Storyboarding Tools: Software or templates for creating visual outlines of content sequences (e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, dedicated storyboarding software, or even simple drawing tools).
  • Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom for virtual meetings, communication, and team collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not directly creating reports, an understanding of how content performance is tracked within an LMS (e.g., student completion rates, assessment scores) is beneficial for iterative content design.
  • Familiarity with basic data interpretation to understand user engagement with digital content.

CRM & Automation:

  • Less emphasis on traditional CRM/automation tools, but an understanding of how course content might integrate with student information systems or enrollment platforms could be advantageous.
  • Familiarity with tools that automate content delivery or assessment within an LMS would be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is proficiency with tools used for content creation and digital learning delivery. While specific proprietary tools may be used by Virtual Arkansas, a strong foundation in general digital content development software and collaboration platforms is essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Commitment to Educational Excellence: A strong dedication to improving student learning outcomes through high-quality, accessible digital curriculum.
  • Collaboration and Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively with diverse teams, including educators, designers, and developers, to achieve shared goals.
  • Innovation and Adaptability: Willingness to embrace new technologies and pedagogical approaches to create engaging and effective online learning experiences.
  • Attention to Detail and Quality: A commitment to accuracy, appropriateness, and legality in all content produced.
  • Student-Centricity: Designing content with the end-user (the student) in mind, ensuring it is engaging, supportive, and facilitates mastery.

Collaboration Style:

  • Remote and Asynchronous: The primary mode of collaboration will be digital and may often be asynchronous, requiring clear communication and documentation.
  • Cross-Functional: Interaction with individuals from different backgrounds (teachers, instructional designers, technical staff) necessitates clear, accessible communication.
  • Feedback-Oriented: A culture of constructive feedback is likely present, encouraging continuous improvement of content and processes.
  • Project-Driven: Collaboration is centered around achieving specific project milestones and deliverables within defined timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the remote nature and the focus on educational content, the team culture likely values clear communication, mutual respect, and a shared passion for improving education through technology. The "phased approach" and "collaborative team meetings" suggest a structured, yet interactive, working environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Low Compensation: The $8,000 contract value for a full year of work is a significant challenge, requiring careful time management and potentially supplementary income.
  • Remote Collaboration Dynamics: Effectively collaborating and maintaining team cohesion in a fully remote environment can be challenging, requiring proactive communication and engagement.
  • Balancing Multiple Stakeholder Needs: Juggling the requirements of state standards, pedagogical best practices, technical constraints, and copyright laws requires strong problem-solving skills.
  • Meeting Tight Deadlines: The nature of contract work often involves compressed timelines, demanding efficient workflow and prioritization.
  • Adapting to Evolving Educational Technology: Staying current with new digital tools, platforms, and online learning strategies is an ongoing challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Mastery of AP Literature Curriculum: Gain in-depth knowledge of the AP Literature and Composition curriculum standards, which can be valuable for future teaching or curriculum development roles.
  • Advanced Digital Content Creation Skills: Develop practical skills in scripting, storyboarding, and designing interactive learning modules for online delivery.
  • Instructional Design Methodologies: Learn and apply research-based instructional design principles and models within a real-world project context.
  • Experience with Virtual Learning Platforms: Become proficient in using and designing for specific LMS platforms used by Virtual Arkansas.
  • Portfolio Development: Create a substantial body of work that can be leveraged for future career opportunities in education or instructional design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The most significant challenge is the compensation. Candidates must weigh this against the growth opportunities and the chance to work on a significant project within the educational technology space. The role offers a chance to build a strong portfolio and gain experience in a high-demand field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • Content Design Philosophy: "Describe your approach to designing engaging and effective digital learning content for AP Literature and Composition. How do you balance rigor with accessibility?" (Prepare to discuss your understanding of AP curriculum, learning theories, and digital pedagogy.)
  • Scripting and Storyboarding: "Walk us through a hypothetical process for scripting and storyboarding a 5-minute instructional video on a key literary concept (e.g., symbolism in 'The Great Gatsby'). What elements would you include?" (Be ready to demonstrate your ability to translate educational objectives into engaging content formats.)
  • Copyright and Accessibility: "What are the key considerations when curating or creating digital content to ensure it is both copyright-compliant and accessible to all learners?" (Prepare to discuss basic principles of fair use and accessibility standards like WCAG.)
  • Collaboration in Remote Teams: "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration with subject matter experts and developers in a remote work environment?" (Focus on proactive communication, clear documentation, and utilizing collaboration tools.)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • Role Understanding: "What do you see as the primary goal of this AP Literature and Composition Content Designer role within Virtual Arkansas?" (Highlight your understanding of the program's mission and the impact of quality content.)
  • Pace and Deadline Management: "This is a contract role with specific deliverables. How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines, especially when working remotely?" (Emphasize your organizational skills, time management techniques, and proactive approach to task completion.)
  • Adaptability: "How do you stay current with changes in educational technology and AP curriculum standards?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Structure is Key: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by skill demonstrated.
  • Tell a Story: For each project, explain the context, your role, the challenges faced, your process (scripting, design, collaboration), and the outcome or impact.
  • Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out how specific projects demonstrate your scripting, storyboarding, content creation, and compliance capabilities.
  • Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your choices, your process, and how you would handle specific challenges related to AP Literature content or digital design.
  • Conciseness: Focus on the most relevant and impactful aspects of each project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely test not only your knowledge of AP Literature but also your practical skills in digital content creation and your ability to work effectively in a remote, project-driven environment. A strong portfolio that showcases your process and deliverables is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on the Arch Ford BambooHR careers page.
  • Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your teaching licensure, specific experience in AP Literature and Composition, any online course development experience, strong communication skills, and proficiency with digital tools. Use keywords from the job description.
  • Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a professional portfolio showcasing relevant work samples. Prioritize examples of digital content creation, scripting, storyboarding, curriculum mapping, and any work demonstrating accessibility and copyright compliance. If you have AP Lit-specific content, make it prominent.
  • Practice Your Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples, scenario-based responses related to content design, and how you would articulate your portfolio projects. Prepare to discuss your approach to remote collaboration and deadline management.
  • Research Virtual Arkansas: Understand the mission and goals of Virtual Arkansas and Arch Ford Education Cooperative. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with their objectives of providing quality online education.

⚠️ 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. The compensation structure is a critical point for candidate consideration.

Application Requirements

A minimum of a bachelor's degree is required, with a master's degree preferred. Candidates should have three years of blended or online teaching experience and demonstrate strong communication and organizational skills.