Become an Instructional Systems Specialist at the National Fire Academy
Are you a visionary in the field of instructional design? Do you want your work to have a tangible impact on the safety and preparedness of the United States? The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently seeking an Instructional Systems Specialist to join the esteemed National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. This position offers a unique blend of high-level curriculum strategy and the rewarding mission of emergency management.
Job Responsibilities
As an Instructional Systems Specialist, you will serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME). Your daily tasks will include:
- Curriculum Strategy: Designing, developing, and revising courses for diverse delivery modalities including blended, online, and synchronous instruction.
- Quality Assurance: Ensuring that all instructional materials align with federal standards and evidence-based practices.
- Project Oversight: Managing development contracts, reviewing deliverables, and monitoring budgets as a Contracting Officer's Representative.
- Technological Innovation: Exploring new learning technologies like AR/VR and gamification to enhance the educational experience for responders.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following baseline standards:
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- You must pass a Public Trust - Moderate background investigation.
- Successful completion of 24 semester hours in relevant educational subjects (e.g., learning theory, instructional design).
- Ability to deploy to disaster sites if needed.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $121,785 - $158,322 |
| Grade | GS-13 |
| Location | Emmitsburg, MD |
| Travel Required | Yes (Emergency Ops & Initial Training) |
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-13 level, offering a competitive annual salary between $121,785 and $158,322. This grade level reflects the high level of technical responsibility and autonomy required for the role.
Benefits
FEMA provides a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- Access to fitness centers and wellness programs.
- Opportunities for ongoing professional development and tuition reimbursement.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Keep your resume strictly to two pages.
- Customize Your Narrative: Avoid copying-and-pasting job duties; instead, use your own words to highlight your accomplishments.
- Detail Your Dates: Clearly list start/end dates in MM/DD/YY format for all employment history.
- Assessment Readiness: Prepare for the USA Hire assessment. If you need a reasonable accommodation, request it early in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important document to include? A: Your resume, which must be under two pages, and your college transcripts.
Q: Is this a remote position? A: No, this is an in-person role located at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
If you are passionate about adult learning, technology, and service, this role offers an unparalleled opportunity to influence national fire and emergency training. Apply today to help build a more resilient nation.
Why This Instructional Systems Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of emergency management training as a lead Instructional Systems Specialist with FEMA's National Fire Academy.
Instructional Systems Specialist Job Overview
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is seeking a skilled Instructional Systems Specialist to join the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. This high-impact role focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of complex training programs for adult learners. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring our nation’s responders are prepared by leveraging advanced instructional technologies, managing curriculum projects, and coordinating with subject matter experts to deliver evidence-based training materials.
Requirements for Instructional Systems Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Background investigation for Public Trust - Moderate
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Government credit card
- Ability to deploy with little notice to locations throughout the U.S. and territories
- Must complete a three-week in-person training course in Emmitsburg, MD within six months of hire
- Current federal employees must meet time-in-grade requirements
- Degree including at least 24 semester hours in specific areas like learning theory, instructional design, or educational evaluation
Preferred Qualifications for Instructional Systems Specialist
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level
- Proven track record in managing instructional design projects and coordinating with stakeholders
- Proficiency in leveraging learning management systems, AR/VR, and gamification models
- Experience serving as a Contracting Officer's Representative
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with annual increases
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance options
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave days
- ✓Flexible work schedules and wellness programs
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
💡 How to Apply Instructional Systems Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Instructional Systems Specialist Job
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages
- Gather college transcripts (unofficial accepted initially)
- Review the online job questionnaire
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date
- Complete the USA Hire Assessment within the required timeframe
- Monitor your status via the application dashboard
💡 General Tips
- Limit your resume to two pages; any longer and your application will be rejected.
- Use your own words to describe your experience rather than copying language from the job description.
- Be specific with dates (MM/DD/YY) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly indicate relevant coursework if qualifying via education.
- Set aside at least three hours for the USA Hire assessment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel required for this position?
Yes. Beyond potential emergency deployments, selected candidates must attend a mandatory three-week training course in Emmitsburg, MD.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The USAJOBS system strictly enforces a two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be disqualified.
Job from Federal Emergency Management Agency
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its component, FEMA, are dedicated to preparing the nation for disasters. FEMA’s mission is to help people before, during, and after disasters. The National Fire Academy (NFA) sits at the heart of this mission by providing professional-level training to emergency responders. Joining our team means joining a culture of problem-solvers and leaders committed to a safer nation.