Become an Instructional Systems Specialist with the IRS
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is one of the world's most influential financial institutions, and its success is built upon the expertise and continuous learning of its workforce. We are currently hiring an Instructional Systems Specialist to join our Large Business and International (LB&I) division. This role offers the unique opportunity to design, develop, and implement nationwide training programs that support the agency's strategic business goals.
Job Responsibilities
As an Instructional Systems Specialist, you will:
- Formulate educational policy and strategic learning initiatives.
- Conduct thorough research into emerging educational trends.
- Analyze strategic business objectives to develop performance support materials.
- Design and evaluate technology-enabled and blended learning programs.
- Provide high-level recommendations to leadership regarding training improvements.
Comparison of Role Levels
| Factor | GS-12 Level (Baseline) | GS-13 Level (Full Performance) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Project-based | Nationwide policy influence |
| Complexity | Standard training design | Experimental/Complex programs |
| Autonomy | Supervised | Independent formulation |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must:
- Hold a degree with 24 semester hours in relevant educational fields.
- Demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level.
- Meet the strict two-page resume limit requirement.
- Provide accurate employment dates including month, day, and year.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $172,980 per year. Locality pay and COLA adjustments may apply depending on the selected duty station.
Benefits
Employees enjoy robust benefits, including comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a defined contribution retirement plan, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
- Precision matters: Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates your qualifications using the specific metrics requested.
- Formatting: Use a standard font (Arial/Calibri) and maintain a 0.5-inch margin.
- Uploads: Verify that all transcripts and performance appraisals are uploaded in the correct format before the cutoff date.
If you are ready to apply your expertise in instructional design to one of the largest financial organizations in the world, we invite you to apply. This role is a vital component of the IRS's commitment to continuous improvement.
Why This Instructional Systems Specialist Job Matters
Transform the future of tax administration by shaping how the IRS learns, grows, and innovates as an Instructional Systems Specialist.
Instructional Systems Specialist Job Overview
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is seeking a dynamic Instructional Systems Specialist to join the Large Business and International (LB&I) division. In this critical role, you will design, develop, and implement nationwide technology-enabled learning initiatives that drive organizational excellence. You will influence educational policy, conduct complex training needs analyses, and create innovative instructional content that supports over 2 million IRS employees in their mission to serve the nation.
Requirements for Instructional Systems Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a 24-semester hour degree program in fields related to learning theory, instructional design, educational evaluation, or computer-based training.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
- Must meet Time-in-Grade (TIG) and Time After Competitive Appointment (TACA) requirements.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government-issued charge card for official travel.
Preferred Qualifications for Instructional Systems Specialist
- Demonstrated expertise in designing technology-enabled, blended, or virtual training programs.
- Experience in conducting performance gap analyses and developing actionable recommendations for management.
- Proficiency in utilizing instructional development software to create interactive performance support materials.
- Strong project management skills, including the ability to coordinate nationwide resource requirements and implementation timelines.
- Advanced experience in developing and validating evaluation instruments, such as surveys and performance-based assessments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for alternative work schedules and flexibility.
- ✓Continuous professional development and career advancement resources.
💡 How to Apply Instructional Systems Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Instructional Systems Specialist Job
- Carefully review the entire job announcement.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Access the USA Staffing application portal via the provided link.
- Complete the mandatory application questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and performance appraisals.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of 11:59 PM ET on September 10, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific start and end dates (MM/DD/YYYY) for all employment history.
- Clearly articulate your hours worked per week, as this is used to calculate prorated experience.
- Avoid using embedded links or photos in your resume, as they are not permitted.
- Highlight your project management and instructional design results rather than simply listing duties.
- Review your application status periodically through the USAJOBS portal to ensure all documents were successfully uploaded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this role within the IRS?
You will serve as an Instructional Systems Specialist for the LB&I division, creating innovative educational policies and technology-enhanced training materials to meet strategic organizational goals.
Is federal experience required to apply?
No, federal experience is not required. Private sector, public sector, and volunteer experience are all welcomed and will be evaluated.
Are there specific education requirements?
Yes, candidates must possess a degree supplemented by at least 24 semester hours in areas like learning theory, instructional design, evaluation, or computers in education.
Job from Internal Revenue Service
The IRS collects over $2 trillion in revenue annually. Working here means you are part of an organization dedicated to integrity, fairness, and the application of tax laws. LB&I, in particular, focuses on complex corporate and international tax administration, making it a challenging and rewarding environment for professionals looking to make a difference.