Fast Facts

SweetRush is seeking a Senior Instructional Designer for a W2 contract position, responsible for creating dynamic learning content and leading end-to-end training programs, with a focus on instructional design and collaboration.

Responsibilities: Lead the design of training programs, conduct needs analyses, create instructional materials, collaborate with stakeholders, and mentor junior designers.

Skills: 6+ years in instructional design, proficiency with eLearning tools, strong visual communication skills, and knowledge of instructional design models.

Qualifications: Experience in technical roles, preferably in aviation or manufacturing; professional certifications in instructional design are a plus.

Location: Hybrid position in Pittsburgh, PA (3 days onsite, 2 days remote).

Compensation: $50 - $60 / Hourly

Senior Instructional Designer - W2 Contract

📍Location: This is a hybrid position (3 days onsite, 2 days remote), with onsite required in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

SweetRush has an exciting opportunity for a talented Senior Instructional Design professional to join our client team!

Who We Are

SweetRush is a consulting, design, and staffing firm specializing in HR-related services that help foster life-centered businesses and organizations. Our work includes designing unique learning experiences using agency-level graphics and leading-edge technology; creating high-performing cultures, leaders, and teams; and helping our clients grow their learning teams with qualified professionals.

Many of our clients are household names with large international operations, while others are small nonprofits whose work we value as essential to the world. We try to balance the work we do for profit with the work we do to spread good things in the world.

SweetRush is a leader in learning and development, making use of emerging technologies (AI, VR, and AR), games, storytelling, chatbots, interactive virtual and in-person experiences, and so on, all while grounding our work in vibrant and impactful human-centered design. The many awards we win annually reflect the care we put into our craft and our collaborations with clients. We’ve been grateful to have won awards with Hilton, Google, Bridgestone, Adidas, SHRM, and numerous others.

We are a completely virtual, tight-knit, talented community that spans the globe, a culture-forward team that values diversity, respect, and caring. Our folks tend to stick around, as do our clients.

We like to think we stand apart from competitors for the uniqueness and innovation of everything we create—and for who we are. And we’re committed to hiring talent that’s as creative, innovative, and caring as everyone on our team. This is where you come in…

About the Role

You will be creating dynamic, engaging, and exciting learning content from concept to implementation in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry. You excel at simplifying concepts, procedures, and sophisticated technical information. You are curious about how things work and can deliver on your commitments. You’ll focus on instructional design, content development, and collaboration.

Timeline: Starting ASAP for 6 months to one year.

Hours: 40 hours per week. 3 days on-site, 2 days remote

Rate: $50-$60/hour.

This is an hourly W2 Contract.

Background checks and the review and signature of client policies and procedures are required.

Responsibilities

Lead the design of end-to-end training programs for safety-critical and technical roles
Conduct needs analyses and translate performance goals into structured learning journeys
Create high-quality instructional materials (eLearning, ILT, blended learning) using our client’s branding and standards
Collaborate with SMEs, trainers, and stakeholders to validate content and ensure accuracy
Support version control, documentation, and compliance tracking in partnership with Training Program Managers
Mentor junior instructional designers and review deliverables for quality

Required Skills

6+ years of experience in instructional design, ideally in technical or safety-critical environments
Proven experience designing for field-based, operational, or frontline audiences
Strong grasp of instructional design models (ADDIE, SAM), adult learning theory, and behavioral outcomes
Excellent visual communication and writing skills—you're clear, compelling, and on-brand
Experience using eLearning tools (Articulate, Rise, Vyond/ Canva) and working within LMS platforms

Bonus Skills

Bonus: Experience in aviation, utilities, manufacturing, autonomous vehicles, or transportation
Professional Certifications (instructional design)
Experience with GenAI, game design, branching scenarios, and Wellsaid

SweetRush is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social, or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. SweetRush will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. We encourage applicants of all ages.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Call-To-Action: Submit Your Resume!

Team chemistry is everything to us, so our ultimate goal is to find the right fit. If the above describes your interests and experience, and you believe this will be a dream job, please submit your resume. We are excited to hear from you!

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Senior Instructional Designer - W2 Contract