Experiential Learning Instructional Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Experiential Learning Instructional Design Manager
Company: Passion for Life, Inc.
Location: Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Job Type: Intern / Volunteer
Category: Operations - Learning & Development / GTM Enablement
Date Posted: 2025-10-09
Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Intern/Entry Level)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in shaping and executing the organization's learning strategy, focusing on innovative experiential learning design for under-resourced youth.
• It involves hands-on leadership in curriculum development, ensuring alignment with Passion for Life's mission to transform passions into rewarding careers.
• The position requires strong project management and team leadership capabilities within a nonprofit environment.
• A key aspect is fostering an inclusive and creative learning environment that champions innovation, accessibility, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is categorized as an "Intern" by the applicant tracking system, the description clearly outlines responsibilities and expectations typical of a managerial or lead position in instructional design and learning experience, particularly within a nonprofit setting where individuals often wear multiple hats. The "volunteer" aspect and emphasis on "untapped potential" suggest an entry-level to early-career focus, but the scope of responsibilities points towards a significant operational impact on the organization's learning programs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the overarching Learning Experience and Design strategy, ensuring it aligns with the organization's mission and student-outcomes.
• Provide strategic and hands-on leadership in learning architecture, instructional design principles, and the development of engaging content.
• Create and deploy scalable, learner-centered solutions that integrate best practices in instructional design and experiential learning methodologies.
• Design and implement experiential learning curricula specifically for both coaches and the youth participants served by Passion for Life.
• Champion innovation, accessibility, and DEI principles throughout all learning initiatives and content.
• Lead and manage the Learning Experience and Design (LED) Team, including training, performance feedback, and fostering team growth.
• Oversee quality assurance, consistency, and scalability of training deliverables across various modalities, including eLearning, instructor-led training (ILT), and virtual sessions.
• Collaborate effectively with subject matter experts (SMEs), HR, Operations, and Technology teams to ensure cohesive program delivery.
• Utilize data analytics to measure the impact of learning programs and drive continuous improvement of learning solutions.
• Perform other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall operational efficiency of the learning department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of strategic planning, creative content development, and team leadership, reflecting a crucial operational role in program delivery. The mention of "quality assurance" and "scalability" indicates a need for structured operational processes. "Using data to measure learning impact" highlights the importance of performance metrics and ROI in an operational context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Must have a completed degree or be currently pursuing a degree in a relevant field.
• Preferred fields include Education, Instructional Design, Nonprofit Management, Psychology, Interdisciplinary Studies, Counseling, Sociology, or other human services-related fields of study.

Experience:

• While an internship role, candidates are expected to demonstrate foundational knowledge and practical application of instructional design principles, preferably within an educational or nonprofit context.
• Experience in project management or leading small teams is a strong asset.

Required Skills:

• Creativity & Innovation: Ability to generate novel ideas and translate them into engaging learning experiences.
• Dependability & Accountability: Reliable and committed to fulfilling responsibilities and meeting deadlines.
• Enthusiasm & Go-Getter Attitude: Proactive and passionate about the mission and the role.
• Detail-Oriented: Meticulous in editing, proofreading, and ensuring accuracy in content and processes.
• Computer Proficiency: Strong command of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher) and familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) or authoring tools is a plus.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and oral communication for clear articulation of ideas and effective collaboration.
• Teamwork: Ability to work effectively and cooperatively as part of a dedicated team.
• Organizational Skills: Highly organized with the capacity to manage multiple ongoing projects simultaneously.
• Time Management: Excellent skills in prioritizing tasks and managing time efficiently to meet project milestones.
• Collaborative Decision-Making: Commitment to working cooperatively with staff and community partners.

Preferred Skills:

• Instructional Design Software: Familiarity with e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate) or graphic design software.
• Experiential Learning Methodologies: Deeper understanding and practical application of hands-on learning techniques.
• Nonprofit Operations: Exposure to or understanding of the operational nuances of nonprofit organizations.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Experience in collecting, analyzing, and reporting on learning program effectiveness.
• DEI & Accessibility Principles: Knowledge of implementing inclusive design practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Skills" list is extensive and blends soft skills crucial for team dynamics and project execution with technical competencies. The emphasis on "go-getter attitude" and "creative, out-of-the-box thinking" suggests the organization values initiative and innovative problem-solving, aligning with a GTM enablement or learning operations function focused on driving engagement and impact.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of instructional design projects, demonstrating a clear understanding of learning objectives, target audience analysis, and content development.
• Include case studies that highlight specific learning challenges addressed, the design process followed, and measurable outcomes or impact achieved.
• Provide examples of curriculum design, detailing how learning strategies were implemented to achieve specific educational goals.
• Demonstrate proficiency in creating engaging learning materials across different modalities (e.g., presentations, worksheets, digital content).

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their process for developing learning content from initial concept to final delivery, emphasizing workflow efficiency.
• Ability to articulate how they would establish and maintain quality assurance processes for learning materials and program delivery.
• Experience or understanding of how to document and standardize learning program operations for scalability and consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an "Intern" role, a formal portfolio might not be strictly required, but demonstrating a structured approach to learning design and development through project examples or case studies will be highly beneficial. The ability to articulate process and potential for documentation is key for operational roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• This is an unpaid volunteer/intern position.

Benefits:

• Flexible Scheduling: Opportunity to set a schedule that accommodates other commitments, allowing for effective time management and work-life balance.
• Networking Opportunities: Engage with a dedicated team of volunteers and staff, expanding professional connections within the nonprofit sector and potentially related industries.
• Recommendation Letters: Potential to receive letters of recommendation upon successful completion of the internship, supporting future career or academic pursuits.
• Skill Development: Gain practical experience in instructional design, nonprofit management, leadership, and project execution.
• Meaningful Impact: Contribute directly to the development and well-being of underserved youth by helping them identify and pursue rewarding careers.
• Creative Freedom: An environment where "imagination can run wild" and creative ideas are encouraged and valued.

Working Hours:

• Time Commitment: Approximately 9-10 hours per week.
• Schedule: Flexible, allowing for coordination with other academic or professional commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary compensation is in professional development, networking, and the intrinsic reward of contributing to a social mission, which is common for volunteer or internship roles in the nonprofit sector. The flexibility in scheduling is a significant benefit for individuals balancing multiple responsibilities.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Non-profit Organization / Social Services / Youth Development
Company Size: Small to Medium (typical for non-profits relying on volunteers)
Founded: Information not directly provided, but the mission implies a focus on empowering youth for future careers.

Team Structure:

• The role involves leading the Learning Experience and Design (LED) Team, suggesting a structure where this manager oversees a group of individuals focused on curriculum and learning program development.
• Collaboration is emphasized across various departments, including SMEs, HR, Operations, and Technology teams, indicating a cross-functional operational model.
• The organization relies heavily on dedicated volunteers, fostering a culture of shared commitment and passion for the mission.

Methodology:

• Mission-Driven: All activities are geared towards empowering under-resourced youth through career coaching and immersion opportunities.
• Student-Centric: The learning process is driven by students' passions and talents, ensuring relevance and engagement.
• High-Energy & Engaging: The environment is designed to be fun, structured, and dynamic.
• Volunteer-Powered: Operations and program delivery are significantly supported by volunteer contributions.

Company Website: passionforlifeinc.org

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be highly mission-focused, energetic, and relies on the dedication of volunteers. This implies a dynamic, hands-on operational environment where cross-functional collaboration and adaptability are key. The "passion" in the company name suggests a strong emphasis on enthusiasm and commitment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Intern / Volunteer (Entry-Level with Managerial Scope)
Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Program Director, Executive Director, or a senior leader responsible for overall program strategy and operations.
Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the quality and effectiveness of the learning programs delivered to youth. By designing and implementing robust experiential learning strategies, the manager contributes significantly to the organization's core mission of career development and empowerment, which in turn affects long-term community impact and organizational success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Experience: Direct experience leading a team, managing projects, and shaping program strategy, which is invaluable for future leadership roles.
• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in instructional design, experiential learning, curriculum development, and nonprofit program management.
• Networking & Mentorship: Opportunities to build relationships with experienced professionals and potentially receive mentorship.
• Portfolio Building: Create tangible work samples and case studies that can be leveraged for future employment or academic applications.
• Potential for Advancement: Successful interns/volunteers may be considered for future paid positions or more senior volunteer roles within Passion for Life, Inc., or receive strong recommendations for external opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers substantial growth potential, especially for individuals seeking to break into the nonprofit sector or build a career in learning and development. The combination of leadership responsibility and hands-on operational execution provides a well-rounded experience.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Likely a collaborative office space within a community center, school, or dedicated nonprofit facility, designed to be welcoming and engaging for youth.
Office Location(s): Atlanta, Georgia, United States. Specific address details would be provided upon engagement.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect to work closely with other volunteers and staff, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere.
• Resourceful Operations: As a non-profit, the environment may be resourcefully managed, requiring adaptability and creative problem-solving.
• Youth-Focused: The workspace is likely designed to be inspiring and conducive to learning and creative activities for young participants.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible: Approximately 9-10 hours per week, allowing for autonomy in scheduling.
• On-site: The role requires physical presence in Atlanta, suggesting a need for regular engagement at the organization's facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Atlanta, combined with a flexible schedule, indicates a need for local candidates who can commit to regular in-person contributions while managing their time effectively. The environment is expected to be dynamic and mission-driven.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of applications and resumes, followed by a brief introductory call to assess basic qualifications and enthusiasm.
• Interview(s): May involve one or more interviews with key staff or leadership to discuss experience, approach to instructional design, leadership style, and alignment with the company's mission and values.
• Portfolio Review/Discussion: Candidates may be asked to share examples of previous work or discuss hypothetical scenarios related to curriculum design and experiential learning.
• Team Meet & Greet: Potential to meet with members of the LED team or other volunteers to assess cultural fit and collaborative potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: For any shared projects, focus on the "why" and the "what was achieved." Quantify results where possible (e.g., "improved engagement by X%", "developed Y modules").
• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your design process – needs analysis, learning objectives, content strategy, development, and evaluation.
• Demonstrate Creativity: Include examples that showcase innovative approaches to learning engagement, especially those relevant to youth or career development.
• Tailor to Passion for Life: If possible, create a brief sample or outline for a hypothetical learning module relevant to the organization's mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions asking how you would approach designing a specific learning experience for a particular age group or career interest.
• Problem-Solving: Think about how you would handle common challenges in volunteer management or program delivery (e.g., volunteer retention, participant engagement).
• Mission Alignment: Be ready to articulate why you are passionate about Passion for Life's mission and how your skills can contribute to its success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the volunteer/intern nature, the interview process will likely focus heavily on assessing passion, initiative, organizational skills, and creative potential, alongside foundational instructional design knowledge. Demonstrating a structured approach to learning design and a proactive attitude will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher are explicitly mentioned as required. Proficiency in these is essential for content creation, planning, and reporting.
• Collaboration Platforms: Likely use of shared drives (e.g., Google Drive, OneDrive) for document sharing and project management tools (e.g., Trello, Asana, or similar) for task tracking and team coordination.
• Learning Management Systems (LMS) / Authoring Tools: While not explicitly required, familiarity with platforms like Moodle, Canvas, Blackboard, or authoring tools such as Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate, or simpler tools like Canva for educational graphics would be a significant advantage.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Excel will be crucial for data analysis and reporting on learning program impact.
• Presentation Software: PowerPoint for presenting findings and proposals to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• Volunteer/Participant Management Systems: May use a CRM or database to track volunteer hours, participant progress, and program data. Understanding of data management principles is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technology requirements are standard office productivity tools. However, any experience with learning-specific technologies will differentiate candidates and demonstrate a proactive approach to the field. The ability to leverage data for operational improvement is an implicit requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Passion for Life: A deep commitment to the mission of empowering youth and fostering their career development.
• Creativity & Innovation: Encouragement of out-of-the-box thinking and novel approaches to learning and engagement.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working together effectively across diverse roles and backgrounds.
• Impact-Oriented: Focus on making a tangible difference in the lives of the youth served, measured by program outcomes.
• Inclusivity & Accessibility: Championing DEI principles in all aspects of learning design and delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with various internal teams (HR, Operations, Technology) and external partners to ensure seamless program execution.
• Feedback-Driven: A culture that likely values constructive feedback for continuous improvement of learning programs and operational processes.
• Shared Ownership: As a volunteer-driven organization, there's an expectation of shared responsibility and proactive contribution to collective goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a proactive, creative, and mission-driven approach. Candidates who can demonstrate alignment with these values through their past experiences and communication style will be highly regarded.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Resource Constraints: As a non-profit, managing projects and initiatives with limited resources will require ingenuity and efficiency.
• Volunteer Management: Effectively leading and motivating a team of volunteers, each with different motivations and time commitments.
• Diverse Learning Needs: Catering to a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and learning styles within the youth population.
• Measuring Impact: Developing robust metrics and data collection methods to demonstrate the effectiveness of learning programs in a meaningful way.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Direct experience in managing a team and strategic planning.
• Instructional Design Mastery: Opportunity to apply and refine advanced instructional design and experiential learning techniques.
• Nonprofit Sector Exposure: Gain insight into the operational dynamics and challenges of the nonprofit industry.
• Curriculum Innovation: Freedom to experiment with new learning methodologies and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for nonprofit operations but also offer significant learning opportunities. Candidates should view these as chances to develop problem-solving skills, leadership resilience, and strategic thinking in a supportive environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you design an engaging experiential learning module for teenagers interested in [specific career field, e.g., graphic design, coding, entrepreneurship]?" Focus on your process, engagement strategies, and how you'd measure success.
• "Describe a time you had to lead a team or project with limited resources. How did you ensure success?" This assesses your problem-solving, resourcefulness, and leadership capabilities.
• "How do you ensure learning content is accessible and inclusive for all participants?" Demonstrate your understanding of DEI and accessibility principles in design.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you passionate about Passion for Life's mission, and how do you see yourself contributing to it?" Be ready to articulate your personal connection and motivation.
• "How would you collaborate with other volunteers and staff to achieve program goals?" Highlight your teamwork and communication skills.
• "What are your expectations for this internship/volunteer role, and what do you hope to gain?" Align your goals with the opportunities the role offers.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the problem, your solution, and the outcome. Use visuals if possible.
• Focus on Process: Detail the steps you took, the decisions you made, and why. This shows your methodological thinking.
• Quantify Impact: If you have metrics, present them clearly. If not, articulate the qualitative impact and potential for measurement.
• Be Enthusiastic: Let your passion for learning and for the mission shine through.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating creativity, a structured approach to learning design, strong organizational skills, and a genuine commitment to the organization's mission. Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios and showcase your problem-solving abilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.
• Tailor your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and any leadership or team experience that demonstrates your organizational skills, creativity, and ability to manage tasks. Use keywords like "Instructional Design," "Experiential Learning," "Curriculum Development," "Project Management," and "Volunteer Leadership."
• Prepare a Brief Statement of Interest: Craft a concise statement (or cover letter) explaining your passion for Passion for Life's mission and why you are a strong candidate for this role, emphasizing your desire to contribute and learn.
• Gather Portfolio Examples (Optional but Recommended): If you have any samples of instructional design work, curriculum outlines, or project plans, have them ready to share. Even academic projects can be valuable.
• Research Passion for Life: Familiarize yourself with the organization's mission, programs, and target audience to articulate your understanding and enthusiasm during the interview process.

⚠️ 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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