Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $434 million dollar observatory project supported by the National Science Foundation, and dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. A 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation NEON, Inc. is responsible for the construction and operation of the Observatory.
Term This will be a two year term assignment. Summary: Reporting to the Manager, Learning and Development the Senior Curriculum Designer will be responsible for planning, designing and developing engaging, interactive and needs-based curricula for scientific and engineering staff. Location: Boulder, Colorado Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Conduct in-depth and comprehensive needs analyses and prepare clear learning objectives for scientific and technical training curricula. Identify users’ needs, analyze, organize and transform complex scientific and technical concepts into engaging, effective and measurable training activities. • Apply principles of adult learning, learning styles and various instructional design approaches and processes to the creation of training curricula • Lead the selection of appropriate instructional strategies e.g., inquiry, behavioral, blended using multimedia or print as necessary • Consult and collaborate with subject matter experts and others to create instructor-led, self-study, and online instructional content that effectively engages the learner • In conjunction with managers and subject matter experts develop and perform prototyping and piloting phases, including User Acceptance Testing (UAT). Test and debug scientific and engineering training activities for quality assurance. Ensure all information is accurate, consistent easy to understand and organized • Assist in designing, planning and implementing a high quality training program for seasonal field-based workforce • Develop print and electronic training materials for technical and scientific users to include manuals, quick reference guides, instructional webinars, web-based tutorials, and manipulative exercises. • Assist in the development of valid measurement strategies, monitor evaluation data and stakeholder feedback and develop improvement plans where needed based on these metrics. Assist with developing methodologies to review, assess, and evaluate training and learning efficacy. Write related assessment items that provide measurable feedback to subject matter experts • Work with Manager of Learning & Development to implement training initiatives that are time-sensitive and/or critical to field based activities Education: • Bachelor of Science in Ecology or related field required • M.Ed. with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction or Curriculum and Educational Technology highly preferred Required Experience: • Minimum 5 years’ experience in instructional design, curriculum development and eLearning technologies • Demonstrated knowledge of instructional design theory, tools and processes including repertoire of sound pedagogical practices • Familiarity with Captivate, Camtasia Studio and/or Adobe CS • Proven ability to develop and implement curricula and training plans that drive measurable and observable results • Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced highly dynamic environment. Must be flexible, and adapt to changing/emerging requirements and be willing to perform as a member of a highly cross- functional team • Excellent communication skills both oral and written Preferred Experience: • Certification in Instructional Systems Design (ISD) highly preferred • Experience facilitating learning to support best thinking and creative problem solving Benefits: We offer a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package and a positive, progressive work environment. Our employment package includes medical, dental, and 401K contribution. APPLY at www.neoninc.org Upload Cover Letter, Resume and References - preferably, as ONE document Also, upload 2 sample curricula NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
