Instructional Design Manager (Remote)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Instructional Design Manager (Remote)

Company: The University of Arizona Global Campus

Location: Remote (Arizona, United States)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Learning & Development Operations / Instructional Design Management

Date Posted: 2025-12-03

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: Remote Solely

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads and manages a team of instructional designers in the creation and enhancement of high-quality, inclusive, and engaging online learning experiences.

• Ensures adherence to pedagogical best practices, accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA, Section 508), and institutional quality assurance frameworks like Quality Matters™.

• Drives innovation in digital pedagogy and the application of emerging instructional technologies to improve learner outcomes and engagement.

• Facilitates cross-functional collaboration with subject matter experts (SMEs), faculty, and various academic and technical departments to ensure cohesive course development.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the prompt is for Revenue/Sales/GTM Operations, this role is in Instructional Design Management within Higher Education. The enhancement focuses on translating the core principles of operations management (process, leadership, quality, collaboration, technology) into the context of instructional design. Keywords are tailored to this specific domain.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for the instructional design team, guiding the development and continuous improvement of online courses and academic programs.

• Manage the full instructional design project lifecycle, from initial scoping and needs analysis through to final delivery and evaluation, ensuring timely milestone achievement and resource allocation.

• Develop and implement standardized instructional design models (e.g., ADDIE, SAM), course templates, and quality assurance processes to ensure consistency, accessibility, and pedagogical soundness across all learning offerings.

• Oversee and mentor instructional designers, fostering professional development, promoting a culture of innovation, and ensuring effective workload distribution and team capacity building.

• Collaborate with faculty, SMEs, multimedia developers, assessment specialists, and IT staff to ensure seamless integration of content, technology, and pedagogical strategies into effective learning solutions.

• Design and deliver faculty training programs focused on instructional design best practices, effective use of educational technologies, and strategies for engaging online learners.

• Champion accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, ensuring all learning materials and experiences meet or exceed WCAG 2.1 AA, Section 508, and other relevant standards.

• Evaluate and recommend emerging instructional technologies, pedagogical approaches, and tools to enhance the quality of online education and learner engagement.

• Manage LMS-related instructional design needs, including course template management, structure consistency, and recommendations for platform updates or integrations.

• Conduct regular reviews and evaluations of instructional materials to ensure alignment with learning objectives, accreditation requirements, and institutional guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Responsibilities are expanded from the raw description to highlight operational aspects such as project lifecycle management, process standardization, resource allocation, quality assurance framework implementation, and cross-functional coordination, all critical in an operations-focused role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in higher education, with a dedicated focus on accessibility and inclusive learning design.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in accessibility standards including WCAG 2.1 AA, Section 508, WAI-ARIA, UAAG, ATAG, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles.

• Deep knowledge of instructional design models (e.g., ADDIE, SAM) and adult learning theories.

• Proficiency with Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Canvas, Blackboard, or D2L, including managing course templates and structures.

• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, competing deadlines, and cross-functional teams effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Master’s degree in Instructional Design, Educational Technology, or a related field.

• Web accessibility certifications (e.g., CPACC, WAS) or Trusted Tester Certification.

• Experience leading faculty training programs and a strong understanding of Quality Matters™ standards and implementation.

• Advanced training or certification in implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL).

• Extensive experience with accessibility audits, remediation strategies, and implementing accessible design in digital learning environments.

• Familiarity with assistive technologies (e.g., NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver).

• Knowledge of copyright and fair use principles related to educational content.

• Experience conducting user testing or research with diverse learner populations, including students with disabilities.

• Experience partnering with vendors for content remediation and accessibility solutions.

• Experience developing systems for managing and tracking the accessibility of course materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: Qualifications are structured to emphasize both foundational requirements and advanced competencies, aligning with typical operations management expectations for strategic roles. Keywords like "strategic role," "quality assurance processes," and "project management" are integrated.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful online course development projects, highlighting contributions to engagement, inclusivity, and pedagogical effectiveness.

• Provide examples of implemented accessibility standards and UDL principles in course design, with clear evidence of impact on diverse learners.

• Include case studies or project summaries detailing the application of instructional design models and the utilization of educational technologies and LMS platforms.

Process Documentation:

• Exhibit understanding of workflow design and optimization for the instructional design lifecycle, from needs assessment to course deployment and revision.

• Provide evidence of developing or utilizing process documentation, such as SOPs, style guides, or project management templates, to ensure consistency and efficiency in design operations.

• Demonstrate experience in establishing and implementing quality assurance processes, including review cycles, feedback mechanisms, and compliance checks for accessibility and pedagogical standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is created to address the typical need for operations professionals to demonstrate process ownership and systems thinking. The "Portfolio Essentials" and "Process Documentation" sections are tailored to showcase practical application of design principles and management of the design process itself, mirroring the expectations for operations roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $86,870 - $112,932 annually

Compensation Type: Salary at 1.0 full-time Equivalence (FTE)

Grade: 11

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Life insurance and disability programs for employee security.

• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Significant tuition reduction benefits for the employee and qualified family members across the University of Arizona, ASU, and NAU.

• Robust retirement plans to support long-term financial planning.

• Access to University of Arizona recreation facilities and cultural activities, promoting work-life balance and employee well-being.

• Recognition for innovative work-life programs.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (full-time). While the role is remote, adherence to standard working hours is expected to ensure team coordination and timely project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range and benefits are directly extracted. The "Working Hours" section is contextualized to reflect operational expectations for a full-time, remote role where coordination is key. The salary range is confirmed as provided by the input.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education / Online Learning

Company Size: The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) is part of a larger educational institution, implying a significant organizational structure and robust operational framework. The specific size of UAGC within the broader university system would influence the scale of operations and potential for process standardization.

Founded: The University of Arizona Global Campus was established in 2020, succeeding Ashford University. This relatively recent establishment as UAGC suggests a dynamic environment focused on modernizing educational delivery and operational efficiency in online learning.

Team Structure:

• The Instructional Design Manager reports to the Director of Learning Solutions and Experience Design, indicating a clear hierarchy within the learning solutions department.

• The team comprises instructional designers, suggesting specialization in course development and pedagogical application.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not explicitly stated for this role, UAGC likely employs data analytics to inform course design, learner engagement strategies, and program effectiveness, aligning with modern educational operations.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The role emphasizes managing the instructional design project lifecycle, implementing standardized processes, and identifying areas for workflow streamlining.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: The role involves leveraging educational technologies and LMS platforms, suggesting a focus on efficient delivery of learning experiences and potentially exploring automation in design or delivery processes.

Company Website: https://uagc.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context is inferred from the nature of a university and the provided description. The "Methodology" section is populated by interpreting the responsibilities through an operations lens, focusing on how design and delivery processes are likely managed.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level management position within the educational operations domain, specifically focused on learning experience design. It requires strategic oversight, team leadership, and significant subject matter expertise in instructional design and accessibility.

Reporting Structure: The Instructional Design Manager reports to the Director of Learning Solutions and Experience Design. This position likely interfaces with academic departments, faculty leadership, and other operational units within the university to drive learning experience initiatives.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the quality, accessibility, and effectiveness of online learning experiences, which is critical for student retention, satisfaction, and academic success. By ensuring high standards in course design and delivery, the position contributes significantly to the institution's educational mission and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to Director-level roles within Learning Solutions or related educational technology departments, overseeing broader strategic initiatives.

• Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in emerging instructional technologies, advanced pedagogical models, and large-scale accessibility compliance management.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Potential to lead special projects or task forces involving curriculum development, technology integration, or academic innovation across different university departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Career progression is analyzed based on the management level and the strategic importance of instructional design within a modern educational institution, framing it within an operations career context.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Fully remote. This arrangement offers flexibility but requires strong self-discipline and effective virtual collaboration tools.

Office Location(s): Remote within the United States, with a focus or preference for Arizona given the "Remote Arizona" designation in some listings.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: While remote, the role necessitates active collaboration with a distributed team of instructional designers and cross-functional partners, requiring strong virtual communication and project management skills.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to and proficiency with relevant educational technologies, LMS platforms, project management software, and virtual communication tools (e.g., video conferencing, collaboration suites) is essential.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for team interaction will primarily occur through virtual meetings, project collaboration platforms, and digital communication channels.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week is expected. While remote, maintaining consistent availability for team meetings, faculty support, and project deadlines is crucial for operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote work aspect is detailed, focusing on the operational implications for collaboration, technology use, and schedule management, as would be relevant for an operations professional evaluating the work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of applications and resumes, focusing on alignment with minimum and preferred qualifications, particularly experience in higher education, accessibility, and instructional design leadership.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a preliminary interview or assessment to gauge understanding of instructional design principles, accessibility standards (WCAG, UDL), and team management approaches.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a portfolio showcasing relevant work, highlighting their leadership in instructional design, project management capabilities, and contributions to accessible and engaging course development. This is a critical step to demonstrate practical application of skills.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Interviews will assess leadership style, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and ability to foster collaboration within the team and across departments. Questions may focus on managing difficult stakeholders, resolving design conflicts, or implementing new processes.

• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership (Director of Learning Solutions and Experience Design) to assess strategic fit, cultural alignment, and overall suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 key projects that best demonstrate your instructional design leadership, team management, and successful implementation of accessibility and UDL principles.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your approach, your specific role (especially as a manager), the solutions implemented, and measurable outcomes (e.g., improved learner engagement, accessibility compliance achieved, faculty satisfaction).

• Showcase Process: Detail the project lifecycle, your team's workflow, how you managed resources, and any process improvements you championed for efficiency or quality.

• Highlight Accessibility & UDL: Dedicate specific examples to demonstrating your deep understanding and practical application of accessibility standards and Universal Design for Learning.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your leadership philosophy, how you mentor and develop instructional designers, and how you navigate challenges in course development and stakeholder management.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study: Be prepared for a potential case study or scenario-based question that requires you to outline a strategy for developing a new online course, improving an existing one, or addressing a specific accessibility challenge within a given timeframe and with limited resources. Focus on your process, decision-making, and team management approach.

• Process Improvement: Anticipate questions about how you would assess and improve existing instructional design workflows, implement new quality assurance measures, or integrate new technologies efficiently.

• Stakeholder Management: Practice articulating how you would collaborate with faculty, SMEs, and technical teams, manage differing opinions, and ensure buy-in for design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is designed to provide actionable advice for candidates, focusing on how to best present their qualifications and prepare for the interview process, with an emphasis on demonstrating operational competence through their portfolio and responses.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Learning Management Systems (LMS): Proficiency with platforms like Canvas, Blackboard, or D2L is essential for managing course structures, templates, and content deployment.

• Authoring Tools: Familiarity with tools such as Articulate Storyline/Rise, Adobe Captivate, H5P, or similar for creating interactive learning content.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or Jira for tracking project progress, managing tasks, and coordinating team efforts.

• Collaboration Suites: Proficiency with Microsoft 365 (Teams, SharePoint) or Google Workspace (Meet, Drive, Docs) for communication, document sharing, and virtual collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• LMS Analytics: Ability to interpret data from LMS platforms regarding learner engagement, course completion rates, and performance metrics.

• Accessibility Audit Tools: Familiarity with tools for checking WCAG compliance, such as WAVE, Axe, or browser developer tools.

• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating reports on project status, team performance, and course quality metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a traditional CRM role, understanding how student information systems (SIS) or student success platforms integrate with LMS and impact learning design is beneficial.

• Experience with workflow automation within LMS or other educational platforms to streamline design and delivery processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Specific tools are inferred based on typical requirements for instructional design and educational technology roles, framing them within an operational context of system utilization and process efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Learning Experience: A commitment to creating engaging, effective, and inclusive learning environments that prioritize student success.

• Data-Driven Improvement: Utilizing learner data and feedback to continuously refine course design, pedagogical strategies, and operational processes.

• Accessibility & Inclusivity: A core value to ensure all learning materials and experiences are accessible and welcoming to all learners, regardless of ability.

• Collaboration & Innovation: Fostering a team environment that encourages creative problem-solving, sharing of best practices, and the exploration of new technologies and methodologies.

• Efficiency & Scalability: Striving for streamlined design workflows and scalable solutions that can be effectively implemented across a broad range of courses and programs.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Active engagement with faculty, SMEs, IT, and academic leadership to ensure alignment between design operations and institutional goals.

• Process-Oriented Feedback: Encouraging a culture of constructive feedback on design processes and outcomes to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, new tools, and lessons learned among the instructional design team and wider university community.

📝 Enhancement Note: Values and collaboration styles are inferred based on the role's responsibilities, the higher education context, and general operational best practices, emphasizing alignment with organizational goals and continuous improvement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Quality, Accessibility, and Speed: The inherent challenge of meeting high standards for instructional quality and accessibility within project timelines and resource constraints.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Effectively navigating the varying expectations and priorities of faculty, SMEs, students, and institutional leadership.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously evaluating and integrating new educational technologies and pedagogical trends into existing design workflows.

• Ensuring Scalable Accessibility: Developing and maintaining sustainable processes for ensuring all course content is accessible at scale across a large institution.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Accessibility Training: Pursuing certifications or advanced training in web accessibility, UDL, and assistive technologies.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to hone management skills, strategic planning, and cross-departmental leadership through mentorship and specialized training.

• Emerging Technologies in Education: Engaging with research and professional development focused on AI in education, immersive learning experiences, and innovative digital pedagogy.

• Quality Assurance Frameworks: Deepening expertise in QM standards or other institutional/accreditation-related quality assurance processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are identified based on common operational hurdles in educational technology and design management, with growth opportunities framed around skill enhancement and career advancement relevant to operations professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading an instructional design team and ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality, accessible online courses." (Focus on your management style, process implementation, and quality assurance strategies.)

• "How would you prioritize and manage competing instructional design projects with limited resources? Walk us through your project management methodology." (Emphasize your organizational skills, resource allocation, and ability to meet deadlines.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about The University of Arizona Global Campus's approach to online learning and student experience?" (Research their mission, values, and any stated initiatives in digital education.)

• "How would you foster a collaborative and innovative culture within your instructional design team, especially in a remote environment?" (Discuss team-building strategies, communication protocols, and knowledge-sharing practices.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project presented, clearly define the challenge, your strategic approach as a manager, the solutions implemented (especially regarding design, accessibility, and technology), and the measurable results.

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your role in guiding the team, making strategic decisions, managing resources, and overcoming obstacles.

• Demonstrate Process: Explain the workflows and processes you utilized or improved during the project.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify outcomes wherever possible (e.g., percentage increase in engagement, compliance achieved, faculty satisfaction scores).

• Address Accessibility: Clearly articulate how accessibility and UDL were integrated into the design process and the outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to assess operational competencies such as strategic thinking, process management, team leadership, and impact measurement, using questions that probe these areas within the context of instructional design.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Instructional Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday portal link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in higher education, instructional design leadership, accessibility compliance (WCAG, UDL, Section 508), project management, and team mentorship. Use keywords from the job description to align with ATS scanning.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio that clearly showcases your leadership in instructional design projects, with specific examples demonstrating your ability to manage teams, implement accessibility standards, and drive engaging online learning experiences. Prepare to present 2-3 key projects in detail.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions focusing on leadership, project management, problem-solving, and your approach to accessibility and instructional quality. Practice presenting your portfolio with a focus on strategic impact and operational efficiency.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with The University of Arizona Global Campus's mission, values, online learning philosophy, and any recent initiatives related to educational technology or student success. Understand their commitment to accessibility and inclusive learning.

⚠️ 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.