Communication and Instructional Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Communication and Instructional Design Consultant Company: HealthPartners Location: Bloomington, Minnesota, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Learning & Development / Operations Support Date Posted: January 19, 2026 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (4-6 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develops and designs engaging learning experiences and communications, with a strong focus on compliance-related topics within a healthcare setting.
• Collaborates closely with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to translate complex regulatory information into accessible and effective training materials and internal publications.
• Leverages multimedia and e-learning platforms to create impactful learning solutions that drive knowledge acquisition and behavioral change.
• Conducts thorough quality assurance and assessments to ensure the effectiveness and accuracy of all developed content, ensuring alignment with organizational standards and regulatory requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Communication and Instructional Design Consultant," has significant operational implications. Its focus on compliance, regulatory environments, and structured learning development places it within the broader GTM operations and L&D support functions. The emphasis on translating complex laws into actionable knowledge is a core operational task for ensuring organizational adherence and mitigating risk.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Course Development: Design, develop, and implement comprehensive courses and curricula that align with specific learning objectives and cater to diverse audience needs within the healthcare sector.
• Communication Strategy & Development: Create compelling and informative content for internal publications, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and engagement for various internal stakeholders.
• SME Collaboration & Content Integration: Partner effectively with subject matter experts to gather information, validate content accuracy, and translate technical or regulatory details into clear, concise learning materials.
• Learning Experience Design & Delivery: Utilize advanced instructional design principles and e-learning platforms to build interactive and effective learning modules that enhance knowledge retention and application.
• Quality Assurance & Effectiveness Measurement: Conduct rigorous assessments of developed courses and communications to guarantee their accuracy, effectiveness, and compliance with internal policies and external regulations.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Proactively research and integrate emerging trends in instructional design, educational technology, and compliance communication to continuously enhance the quality and impact of learning experiences.
• Project Support: Provide dedicated support for complex projects, ensuring timely delivery of communication and learning materials that meet project milestones and objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic content creation and tactical execution, crucial for operational efficiency in regulated environments. The emphasis on "compliance-related topics" and "healthcare or other highly regulated environment" suggests a need for meticulous process adherence and risk mitigation, key operational concerns.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design, Education, Communications, or a closely related field.
• Advanced degree (JD, MHA, MPH, or MBA) is preferred, indicating a potential for higher-level strategic contributions.

Experience:

• 4-6 years of experience working within a healthcare or other highly regulated industry.
• Proven track record in instructional design or e-learning development, with a preference for experience within a healthcare setting.
• Demonstrated experience supporting complex projects from initiation to completion.

Required Skills:

• Instructional Design & Course Development: Expertise in designing and developing engaging learning content, including curriculum structure and learning objectives.
• Communication Development: Skill in crafting clear, concise, and impactful written and oral communications for diverse audiences.
• Collaboration & SME Engagement: Ability to work effectively with subject matter experts to extract and synthesize complex information.
• Learning Technologies: Familiarity with e-learning platforms and multimedia tools for course implementation.
• Regulatory Acumen: Understanding of complex laws, regulations, and requirements, particularly within healthcare or similar regulated sectors.
• Microsoft Office Suite Proficiency: Strong command of PowerPoint, Excel, and Visio for content creation and process visualization.
• Analytical & Critical Thinking: Ability to quickly grasp complex concepts, identify key impacts, and translate them for others; strong research and information analysis skills.
• Self-Motivation & Initiative: Proven ability to work independently, take initiative, and drive projects forward.
• Adaptability & Time Management: Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• System Thinking: Capacity to understand and analyze interconnected systems and processes.
• Interdepartmental Collaboration: Ability to work effectively across departments with a respectful and responsive approach.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with advanced degree-level coursework in healthcare administration, public health, law, or business administration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of creative instructional design skills and a strong analytical, process-oriented mindset required for operating within regulated environments. The "system thinking" requirement is particularly relevant for operations roles, indicating a need to understand how processes and communication strategies impact the broader organizational ecosystem.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Instructional Design Projects: Showcase examples of courses and learning modules developed, demonstrating design principles, learning objectives, and user engagement strategies.
• Communication Samples: Present examples of internal communications (e.g., newsletters, policy summaries, training announcements) that highlight clarity, impact, and audience tailoring.
• SME Collaboration Case Studies: Include examples where you successfully partnered with SMEs to develop complex content, illustrating the process and outcomes.
• Process Improvement Demonstrations: Highlight instances where your communication or training initiatives led to measurable process improvements or enhanced compliance adherence.
• Technology Integration Examples: Showcase projects where e-learning platforms or multimedia tools were effectively utilized to deliver learning experiences.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in documenting the instructional design and communication development lifecycle, from needs analysis and content creation to delivery and evaluation.
• Provide examples of how you have contributed to or maintained process documentation for learning materials and communication workflows.
• Showcase an understanding of how to measure the effectiveness of learning programs and communication campaigns, including data analysis and reporting on key performance indicators (KPIs).

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is critical for demonstrating practical application of skills. Operations professionals are expected to show tangible results and well-defined processes. The emphasis on "process documentation" and "measuring effectiveness" directly aligns with core operations principles of standardization and continuous improvement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a mid-senior level Instructional Design Consultant in the Bloomington, MN area, with 4-6 years of experience in a regulated environment, the estimated salary range is approximately $75,000 - $105,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the specialized nature of healthcare compliance and instructional design, as well as the cost of living in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to support employee well-being.
• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) or similar plan with potential company matching contributions, crucial for long-term financial planning.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay, allowing for work-life balance and recovery.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences, supporting career growth in instructional design and compliance.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Income protection benefits to provide security for employees and their families.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, with standard business hours. Some flexibility may be available based on project needs and team collaboration requirements, but the role is primarily on-site, requiring consistent availability during core operational hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for similar roles in the specified region and experience level, considering the specialized nature of healthcare compliance. HealthPartners' benefits package is assumed to be competitive for a large healthcare organization.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare Services and Insurance. HealthPartners is a large, integrated healthcare organization committed to improving health and well-being in its communities. Company Size: HealthPartners is a large employer, with tens of thousands of employees across various facilities and services. This scale implies robust operational processes and a structured work environment. Founded: HealthPartners was founded in 1947, giving it a long history and established presence in the healthcare industry, suggesting a culture of stability and deep-rooted expertise.

Team Structure:

• The role likely sits within a Learning & Development, Compliance, or a dedicated Communications department, reporting to a manager or director overseeing these functions.
• The team structure will involve collaboration with instructional designers, communication specialists, compliance officers, and various SMEs across different business units.
• Expect a matrixed reporting or project-based collaboration model, common in large organizations, requiring strong stakeholder management.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data from assessments, analytics, and SME input to inform the design of learning and communication materials.
• Process Standardization: Adherence to established protocols for content development, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborative Development: A strong focus on working cross-functionally to ensure content accuracy, relevance, and effective delivery.
• Agile Principles (Potential): While not explicitly stated, large organizations often adopt agile methodologies for project management, which could influence how projects are planned and executed.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding HealthPartners' position as a large, integrated healthcare provider is key. This suggests a commitment to quality, compliance, and patient care, which will heavily influence the content and operational standards for this role. The company's long history implies a stable, established culture.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-career to senior-level position within the specialized field of instructional design and compliance communications. It requires a solid foundation of experience and the ability to work independently on complex tasks, contributing to the operational efficiency of compliance training and internal messaging.

Reporting Structure: The Consultant likely reports to a Manager or Director of Learning & Development, Compliance Communications, or a similar operational leadership role. This position will involve significant interaction with various department heads and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) across the organization.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts operational integrity by ensuring that colleagues are informed about and adhere to critical compliance regulations. Effective communication and training reduce compliance risks, prevent potential legal issues, and maintain the organization's reputation. This role is vital for operational risk management and employee enablement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific compliance areas (e.g., HIPAA, healthcare fraud, ethics) or advanced instructional design methodologies (e.g., adult learning theory, gamification).
• Lead/Senior Consultant: Transition to a Senior Consultant or Lead Instructional Designer role, taking on more complex projects, mentoring junior staff, and influencing strategic direction for L&D or compliance communications.
• Management Track: With proven leadership and project management skills, potential advancement into management roles overseeing L&D, communication, or compliance training teams.
• Cross-Functional Moves: Leverage expertise in communication and learning to move into roles within project management, change management, or specific operational departments that require strong communication and training capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory emphasizes specialization within operations-focused areas like compliance and L&D, with clear paths towards leadership and broader operational influence. This role is a solid stepping stone for those looking to build a career in operational excellence within the healthcare sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: HealthPartners operates multiple facilities, likely including modern office spaces designed for collaboration and focused work. The Bloomington location suggests a professional corporate office environment. Office Location(s): The primary office location is Bloomington, MN. This area offers accessibility and a professional infrastructure typical of corporate hubs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Access to meeting rooms, breakout areas, and shared workspaces designed to facilitate teamwork and brainstorming sessions with SMEs and colleagues.
• Technology Infrastructure: Ample access to necessary technology, including computers, software (Microsoft Office suite, e-learning authoring tools), and potentially specialized hardware for multimedia development.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with other communication specialists, instructional designers, compliance officers, and project teams, fostering a dynamic work environment.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours (e.g., 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday) are expected, with 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or accommodate cross-time-zone collaborations, though significant deviation from core hours is unlikely for this type of role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role in a corporate environment suggests a structured and professional setting conducive to focused work and collaborative team interactions, essential for managing complex operational projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A conversation with the hiring manager to delve deeper into specific experience, responsibilities, and understanding of instructional design and compliance.
• Skills Assessment/Portfolio Review: A crucial stage where candidates will be asked to present their portfolio. This may involve a presentation of specific projects, case studies, and a discussion of their design process, problem-solving approach, and impact.
• Team/SME Interview: Interviews with potential peers or key Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to evaluate collaboration skills, technical understanding, and ability to translate complex information.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader for final approval, focusing on strategic alignment and overall fit within the organization's operational goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your skills in instructional design, communication development, and working within regulated environments.
• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role, the process you followed (especially how you collaborated with SMEs and handled complex information), the tools used, and the measurable outcomes or impact achieved. Use metrics where possible (e.g., improved completion rates, reduced errors, positive feedback scores).
• Showcase Compliance Understanding: Include at least one example that specifically addresses developing content for compliance or regulatory topics, demonstrating your ability to navigate and simplify complex requirements.
• Prepare a Narrative: Be ready to walk through your portfolio with a clear, concise story for each project. Practice your presentation to ensure it flows well and stays within time limits.
• Focus on Problem-Solving: Emphasize how you approached challenges, adapted to feedback, and ensured the final product met its objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential scenario-based questions or a short, practical exercise designed to assess your ability to quickly analyze a problem, outline a learning/communication strategy, or draft a piece of content.
• Think about how you would approach developing training for a new compliance policy or communicating a complex change initiative within a healthcare setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process and portfolio review are designed to assess not just creative skills but also operational discipline, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to deliver tangible results within a regulated industry. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for this type of role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• E-Learning Authoring Tools: Proficiency in industry-standard tools like Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate, or similar platforms for creating interactive online courses.
• Multimedia Software: Familiarity with tools for video editing, graphic design, and audio production to enhance learning materials.
• Content Management Systems (CMS): Experience with systems used to manage and deliver digital content, potentially including internal knowledge bases or learning management systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Learning Management Systems (LMS): Experience with platforms like Workday, Cornerstone OnDemand, or similar for delivering, tracking, and reporting on course completion and learner progress.
• Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in Excel for analyzing feedback, survey data, and course effectiveness metrics.
• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to interpret and potentially contribute to dashboards that track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to training and communication initiatives.

CRM & Automation:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced skills in PowerPoint for presentations, Word for documentation, Excel for data analysis, and Visio for process mapping.
• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication, document sharing, and project collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly listed as "operations tools" in the traditional sense (like Salesforce or HubSpot), the proficiency in L&D and communication platforms, coupled with analytical tools, is critical for the operational delivery of training and information dissemination within HealthPartners.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient-Centricity: A foundational value in healthcare, ensuring that all communications and training ultimately support patient well-being and care.
• Integrity & Compliance: Upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and adherence to all relevant regulations, crucial for a healthcare organization.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where individuals work together to achieve common goals and share knowledge effectively.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and a proactive approach to enhancing processes, learning experiences, and communication strategies.
• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities and delivering high-quality work, particularly in critical areas like compliance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A strong emphasis on working seamlessly with various departments, including legal, compliance, HR, IT, and clinical teams, to ensure accuracy and relevance of content.
• Feedback-Driven: An open culture that values constructive feedback on designs and communications, using it to refine materials and processes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches within the L&D and communications teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a commitment to quality, ethical standards, and collaborative problem-solving, which are hallmarks of effective operational teams in the healthcare sector.

<h3>⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities</h3> **Challenges:** * **Translating Complexity:** The primary challenge will be distilling highly complex and often dry compliance regulations into engaging, understandable, and actionable content for diverse audiences. * **Keeping Pace with Regulations:** Healthcare regulations are constantly evolving, requiring continuous learning and rapid updates to training materials. * **Balancing Creativity and Compliance:** Finding the right balance between innovative instructional design techniques and the strict requirements of compliance content. * **Measuring ROI:** Quantifying the direct impact and return on investment of communication and training initiatives can be difficult but is crucial for demonstrating value. * **Stakeholder Management:** Effectively managing expectations and gathering input from numerous SMEs and stakeholders with varying priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Compliance Training: Deepen knowledge in specific healthcare compliance areas (e.g., HIPAA, Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute).
• Instructional Design Certifications: Pursue certifications in advanced adult learning principles, e-learning development, or specific authoring tools.
• Project Management Skills: Develop skills in managing complex projects, timelines, and resources, potentially leading to project management roles.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior team members, lead project teams, and contribute to strategic L&D planning.
• Industry Conferences: Attend conferences related to healthcare compliance, instructional design, and e-learning to stay abreast of the latest trends and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, all critical for operational success. The growth opportunities point towards a clear path for career advancement within specialized operational functions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a complex regulatory requirement into an easy-to-understand training module. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your methodology, SME collaboration, and impact measurement.)
• "How do you ensure your communication and learning materials are engaging while remaining accurate and compliant?" (Highlight your approach to content design, audience analysis, and quality assurance.)
• "Walk us through your process for developing a new e-learning course from initial request to final deployment." (Detail your workflow, tools, and stakeholder management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about HealthPartners and our commitment to patient care and compliance?" (Research the company's mission, values, and recent news.)
• "How do you approach working with subject matter experts who may have different communication styles or priorities?" (Demonstrate your collaborative and adaptive communication skills.)
• "How do you stay current with trends in instructional design and healthcare regulations?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio piece, clearly articulate:
  • The Challenge: What was the problem or need?
  • Your Role: What specifically did you do?
  • The Process: How did you design, develop, and collaborate? (Emphasize SME interaction and handling of complex info.)
  • The Solution: What was the final deliverable?
  • The Impact: What were the results? (Use metrics if possible.)
• Highlight Compliance Focus: Ensure at least one example clearly demonstrates your ability to handle compliance-related content.
• Showcase Technical Skills: Briefly mention the tools and technologies used.
• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your delivery to be clear, confident, and within the allotted time. Be prepared for follow-up questions on any aspect of your projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only creative and technical skills but also the operational mindset required for a regulated industry – precision, process adherence, and measurable impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the HealthPartners career portal via the provided link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords and experiences directly related to instructional design, communication development, compliance, healthcare regulations, e-learning, and project support. Quantify achievements whenever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select and organize your strongest work samples that align with the job description. Ensure case studies clearly demonstrate your process, collaboration with SMEs, and the impact of your work, especially in regulated environments.
• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse walking through your portfolio with a focus on clarity, conciseness, and demonstrating your problem-solving approach. Be ready to discuss your design philosophy and how you handle complex information.
• Research HealthPartners: Understand the company's mission, values, and its role in the healthcare industry. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.

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