Senior Learning Development Manager / Instructional Designer

Company Overview:
Vantage Point Consulting is a dynamic and entrepreneurial workforce development and human capital management technology and consulting firm that does business across the US with a client-design collaboration office in Reston, VA. We specialize in providing high-quality education and workforce development solutions to government, higher education and non-profit organizations including the Department of Defense and Federal Government, to enhance workforce performance and achieve organizational objectives.
Position Overview:
We are seeking to add an experienced and innovative Learning Development Lead with strong Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) experience who has a strong track record of working with stakeholders and building/leading learning development teams to design and develop dynamic, engaging synchronous and asynchronous training solutions that incorporate the latest in learning methodologies and techniques including simulations, games, and multi-media components. The can start as either at 50% time or full-time contract position with the option to convert to a full-time W2 position as needs expand.
If you love game and scenario-based training design and you are a good storyteller for creation of engaging training experiences, we want to talk to you!
Candidates should be well-versed in the ADDIE training development methodology for instructional design, with a focus on creating innovative and effective training techniques such as scenario-based role-play simulations and gamification. Prior experience developing modularized training for Federal Government Agencies, including the Department of Defense (DoD) is highly desired.
This role involves working closely with clients, subject matter experts (SMEs) and cross-functional team members to define learning outcomes, provide instructional design guidance, lead assessment design and lead training storyboard development and customer validation for web-based and instructor-led courses.
Key Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership, instruction design direction and project management throughout the training development Lifecyle, from initial needs analysis and curriculum design through to the final delivery and evaluative stages, ensuring all training work products align with established quality standards and specific client needs.
• Understand and utilize the ADDIE methodology throughout the iterative design, development, and implementation of instructional materials and comprehensive training programs, prioritizing measurable outcomes and active learner engagement.
• Collaborate effectively with internal teams and external subject matter experts (SMEs) for conducting thorough needs assessments, defining clear learning objectives, and crafting interactive and captivating training solutions through to final work product.
• Maintain a close partnership with SMEs to guarantee the precision and relevance of training content, ensuring it reflects current practices and knowledge.
• Innovate beyond conventional training delivery methods that go beyond traditional "page turner" PowerPoint presentations, by developing dynamic materials, including scenario-based simulations, gamified learning modules, and interactive multimedia content, to enhance learner involvement and retention.
• Implement data-driven course evaluation and learner assessment strategies to assess training effectiveness, leveraging findings to inform continuous program improvements and innovations.
• Lead and develop other Vantage Point team members involved in the training/course development design and delivery process to promote a culture of collaboration, innovation, use of industry best practices and excellence within the team.
• Support design and development of a wide range of instructional materials, including Instructor Guides and flowcharts, utilizing advanced tools such as screen capture and animation software, along with storyboards, to support diverse aspects of course content creation.
• Ensure all training materials comply with Section 508 accessibility standards and SCORM requirements for e-learning interoperability and functionality.
• Remain abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and methodologies in training and development, with a special focus on advancements relevant to the government contracting sector.
• Apply extensive knowledge in instructional system development principles, adult learning theory, and training research methodologies, alongside proficiency in statistical analysis and technological applications, to develop, evaluate, and refine educational content and support materials.
• Provide SME input and support to our business development team in support of proposal and bid development.

• Bachelor's or master's degree from a fully accredited college or university in instructional design, education, organizational development, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in instructional design, training development, or learning and development role, with a significant focus on government training and two years experience in a learning development program leadership role.
• Strong proficiency in the ADDIE training development methodology and solid experience in designing interactive and engaging training solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to design innovative training approaches, such as scenario-based simulations, gamification, and interactive multimedia content.
• Experience authoring training in SCORM-Compliant courseware authoring tools, specifically Articulate 360 (Rise and Storyline), and Captivate.
• Experience working with government agencies, notably the Department of Defense and Federal Government, coupled with a comprehensive understanding of government contracting processes and requirements.
• Demonstrated theoretical knowledge and practical skills in educational principles, including the application of Bloom's Taxonomy, planning, and developing Kirkpatrick's 4-level evaluations, and incorporating advanced organizers, mnemonics, and experiential training components.
• Excellent project management and team development skills, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously to deliver outcomes on time and within budget.
• An agile and growth mindset (i.e., adaptable, values continual learning, resilient, collaborative, proactive, customer-centric, open-minded)
• Strong communication and presentation skills, adept at effectively interacting with stakeholders across various levels.
• Ability to operate independently in a project environment, proactively defining and achieving mission requirements with limited direction.
• Familiarity with Section 508 compliance to ensure all training materials are accessible to learners with disabilities.
• U.S. Citizen with the ability to pass a government background check required due to government contract requirements.

• Knowledge of or experience with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and e-learning standards such as SCORM and xAPI, to ensure the broadest compatibility and tracking capabilities of developed courses.
• Experience in utilizing data analytics and evaluation tools to measure training effectiveness and return on investment (ROI), enhancing decision-making and training strategy adjustments.
• Skills in graphic design or multimedia production, which could enhance the development of visually appealing and engaging training materials.
• Certification in training and development (e.g., CPLP, CPTM) and/or government contracting (e.g., DAWIA, FAC-C).