Purpose of the Position
The Learning & Development Instructional Designer is primarily responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining engaging training programs and learning materials for the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South. This position translates organizational training needs and subject matter expertise into effective learning experiences that support employee development, job performance, and Association goals. This position leads the day-to-day development of training content and supports the implementation of Association-wide learning initiatives.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Training Development & Instructional Design
- Lead the hands-on development and creation of training programs and learning materials that support business goals and employee development.
- Build and maintain the Association’s learning platform, including developing and organizing training content and resources.
- Collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs), department leaders, gather information, identify training needs, and establish learning objectives.
- Design and develop instructor-led training (ILT), virtual instructor-led training (VILT), e-learning courses, job aids, videos, guides, presentations, and performance support materials.
- Apply adult learning principles and instructional design methodologies, such as ADDIE and SAM, to create effective learning experiences.
- Utilize learning technologies and authoring tools such as Articulate 360, Rise, Captivate, Camtasia, and learning management systems (LMS).
- Ensure all learning content is accurate, accessible, inclusive, engaging, and aligned with YMCA branding and organizational standards.
- Pilot, test, and revise training materials based on learner feedback and identified learning needs.
- Organize and manage multiple assigned training development projects while meeting established timelines and expectations.
Evaluation & Continuous Improvement
- Evaluate training effectiveness through assessments, surveys, learner feedback, and available performance data.
- Maintain and update existing training materials to ensure accuracy, consistency, and relevance.
- Identify opportunities to improve training content and recommend enhancements to leadership.
Learning & Development Support
- Develop training materials to support employee onboarding, professional development, leadership development, and organizational changes.
- Support the implementation of Association-wide learning initiatives and training programs.
- Stay current on instructional design practices, learning technologies, and industry trends to enhance training content and delivery.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:
Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits’ volunteers and build effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fundraising.??
Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.???
Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establish goals, clarify tasks, plans of work, and actively participate in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures and reports for all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.??
Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change and seek opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.??
QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:?
- Bachelor’s degree, associate degree, relevant certification, or equivalent experience in instructional design, education, training, or related field.?
- Two to three years of related experience preferred.?
- Experience developing in-person, virtual, or online training materials.?
- Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), Microsoft 365, and e-learning tools preferred.?
- Strong communication, organization, and project management skills.?
WORK SCHEDULE:?
The schedule for this full-time position is generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, though weekend work may be required depending on business needs.???
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:?
- Primarily works in an office environment, with regular collaboration across YMCA branches, departments, and association leadership.?
- May require occasional travel to YMCA locations for training sessions, meetings, and learning initiatives.?
- Must be comfortable working with computers, learning management systems, and digital learning tools for extended periods.?
- May require flexibility to accommodate project deadlines, training schedules, and organizational priorities.?
- Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods.?
- Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and through virtual platforms.?
- Ability to occasionally stand, walk, present, and facilitate training sessions.?
- Ability to occasionally lift, carry, or move training materials and equipment weighing up to 25 pounds, as needed.?
The YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South aims to provide quality and safe youth programs for all. We are committed to making a continuous effort to prevent the abuse of children: verbally, physically, emotionally, and sexually. All allegations or suspicions of child abuse are taken seriously and will be reported to the State for investigation with full cooperation from the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South??