Become an Instructional Systems Specialist at the Warfighting Acquisition University
Are you a visionary in the field of instructional design with a passion for supporting national security? The Warfighting Acquisition University (WarU) is looking for talented individuals to join our team in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. As an Instructional Systems Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape for the Department of Defense’s acquisition workforce.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will engage in every stage of the instructional design lifecycle, including:
- Analysis & Requirements: Conducting front-end and needs assessments to pinpoint performance gaps.
- Design & Architecture: Leading the design of curricula, ensuring learning objectives are aligned with Bloom’s taxonomy and performance-based outcomes.
- Development: Creating storyboards, eLearning modules, facilitator guides, and other learning materials.
- Quality Assurance: Managing contractor deliverables to ensure all products meet WarU’s high standards for accessibility and instructional quality.
- Assessment: Developing reliable testing instruments and rubrics to measure student performance.
Role Requirements
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree with 24+ semester hours in relevant educational disciplines.
- Demonstrated specialized experience in instructional design or training development.
- Professional experience in a related functional area.
- Ability to provide a concise, high-impact two-page resume.
Comparison of Potential Candidates
| Feature | Entry Level (Band A) | Senior Level (Potential) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Responsibility | Tactical Course Design | Strategic Learning Architecture |
| Oversight | Direct supervision | Autonomy with stakeholder management |
| Experience Level | Foundational ISD Knowledge | Advanced Methodology & Strategy |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $70,623 to $158,323 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level. Employees enjoy flexible work schedules, transit subsidies, and the unique opportunity to work within an elite, mission-focused educational environment.
How to Apply
To be considered, ensure your application package includes a two-page resume detailing your work history and a narrative cover letter answering the provided design scenario. Review your application on the official federal portal to ensure all documents have been successfully processed.
This position represents a unique opportunity to apply your instructional systems design expertise to a critical mission. If you are ready to make a significant impact on military training, apply today and join the team at WarU.
Why This Instructional Systems Specialist Job Matters
Transform the future of military education as an Instructional Systems Specialist with the Warfighting Acquisition University.
Instructional Systems Specialist Job Overview
The Warfighting Acquisition University (WarU) is seeking a skilled Instructional Systems Specialist to help drive professional development for the Department of Defense's acquisition workforce. In this role, you will analyze training gaps, design innovative learning architecture, and ensure our curriculum meets the highest standards for performance-based education. Based in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, you will collaborate with subject matter experts to deliver high-impact learning assets that provide our warfighters with a distinct competitive advantage.
Requirements for Instructional Systems Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher
- At least 24 semester hours of coursework in learning theory, psychology of learning, instructional design, educational evaluation, instructional product development, or computer-based training
- Specialized experience in curriculum development or instructional design
- Submission of transcripts if qualifying based on education
- Completion of a two-page maximum resume
- Must be able to start employment within 30 days of offer acceptance
Preferred Qualifications for Instructional Systems Specialist
- Experience developing learning assets specifically for the Department of Defense or federal government organizations
- Proven expertise in applying Instructional Systems Design (ISD) methodologies
- Advanced skills in designing performance-based assessments and rubric development
- Demonstrated ability to manage contractor deliverables and quality assurance processes
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary structure
- âś“Flexible work schedules
- âś“Transit subsidies
- âś“Professional development and lifelong learning culture
- âś“Access to a comprehensive community of defense practitioners and policy experts
đź’ˇ How to Apply Instructional Systems Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Instructional Systems Specialist Job
- Log in or create an account on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages containing hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Draft a cover letter that addresses the specific hiring scenario regarding instructional design objectives.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and any relevant veteran preference paperwork.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes the exact hours worked per week for every position to receive full credit.
- Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- When answering the hiring criteria, focus on providing specific, measurable, and actionable instructional design recommendations.
- Verify that your submitted documents have cleared the system virus scan before the closing date.
- Avoid including personal information like social security numbers or photographs in your application materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical appointment length for this position?
Initial appointment is for a period of three years, with potential for extension based on annual performance reviews.
Do I need to submit official transcripts immediately?
Official transcripts are not required at the time of initial application, but they must be available for verification if you are selected.
Job from Warfighting Acquisition University
The Warfighting Acquisition University is a premier organization within the Department of Defense dedicated to training and supporting acquisition professionals. We provide a bridge between complex policy and real-world application, ensuring our workforce has the tools and knowledge to succeed. By joining WarU, you become part of a community of practitioners, experts, and policymakers focused on innovation and lifelong learning.