Become an Instructional Systems Specialist at the IRS: A Guide to the Career
Are you ready to influence how thousands of employees learn and grow? The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is hiring an Instructional Systems Specialist to join our Human Capital Office. This role is a cornerstone of the agency's strategy, focusing on developing cutting-edge educational solutions that keep the IRS at the forefront of financial operations.
Job Responsibilities
As an Instructional Systems Specialist, you will:
- Formulate nationwide educational policies.
- Develop blended learning and performance support materials.
- Conduct technology-enabled research to identify training gaps.
- Advise executives on strategic human capital management.
Comparison: Typical Instructional Role vs. IRS Specialist
| Feature | Typical Private Sector Role | IRS Specialist Role |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Product or Team specific | National/Service-wide |
| Goal | Profit/Training efficacy | Policy/Compliance/Capability |
| Stakeholders | Management/Clients | Federal Executives/Division Heads |
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-13 level position, candidates must meet specific criteria, including:
- A degree with 24+ semester hours in related education fields.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level.
- Current permanent status within the IRS competitive service.
- Submission of a concise, two-page resume.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $172,980. Beyond salary, federal employees enjoy an extensive benefits package, including retirement plans, government-matched savings programs, and comprehensive health insurance.
This role is for those who are passionate about education and systemic change. By aligning organizational goals with innovative training, you can build a rewarding federal career with the IRS.
Why This Instructional Systems Specialist Job Matters
Transform the future of tax administration by designing innovative, technology-driven learning solutions for the IRS workforce.
Instructional Systems Specialist Job Overview
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is seeking a skilled Instructional Systems Specialist to join our Talent Development team within the Human Capital Office. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in shaping nationwide educational policy, creating blended learning programs, and conducting research to improve performance across the agency. You will collaborate with senior executives to address complex human resource and training challenges, directly influencing the professional growth of thousands of employees. This is a unique opportunity to leverage your expertise in instructional design and educational technology to make a lasting, measurable impact on one of the world's most significant financial institutions.
Requirements for Instructional Systems Specialist
- Must be a current permanent IRS competitive service employee.
- Possess a degree with at least 24 semester hours in relevant subjects (Learning theory, instructional design, evaluation, product development, or computer-aided education).
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Meet Time After Competitive Appointment (TACA) requirements.
- Meet Time-in-Grade (TIG) requirements (52 weeks at the next lower grade level).
- Must obtain and use a Government-issued charge card for official travel.
Preferred Qualifications for Instructional Systems Specialist
- Proven track record in analyzing performance gaps and designing technology-enabled training.
- Strong project management skills, including the ability to develop work plans and resource requirements.
- Experience in utilizing advanced instructional development software for virtual or e-learning environments.
- Demonstrated ability to serve as a consultant to leadership regarding human capital initiatives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- ✓Flexible work schedules and potential for telework
- ✓Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Instructional Systems Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Instructional Systems Specialist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a two-page maximum resume focusing on relevant experience, including dates, hours per week, and grade/series information.
- Log in to the USA Staffing application portal via the link provided.
- Complete all required online questionnaires and assessments.
- Upload supporting documentation, including transcripts and your most recent performance appraisal.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page limit for your resume; excessive lengths can render you ineligible.
- Quantify your experience—include the specific number of hours worked per week and exact dates (MM/DD/YYYY).
- Avoid copy-pasting duties from the job posting; emphasize your specific accomplishments and results.
- Double-check that all your federal job entries include the pay plan, series, and grade.
- Submit your performance appraisals and any relevant awards to help reviewers better understand your potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I do not have a degree in education?
Yes, as long as your degree is supplemented by at least 24 semester hours in specific fields such as learning theory, educational psychology, instructional design, or computer applications in education.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, the position is telework eligible, though you must check with the specific post of duty for local policy requirements.
What happens if I submit my resume as three pages?
Your application will be deemed ineligible. The two-page limit is a strict requirement for this announcement.
Job from Internal Revenue Service
The Department of the Treasury and the IRS are dedicated to the fair and efficient administration of U.S. tax laws. As part of the Talent Development team, you won't just be an employee; you will be an architect of progress, ensuring that our workforce is equipped with the skills necessary to process $2 trillion in annual revenue.