Instructional Design Specialist

Company Description Actua is a leading national STEM outreach organization in Canada, dedicated to helping every child build the skills and confidence needed to reach their full potential. Through a network of over 40 universities and colleges, Actua engages approximately 500,000 youth in 600 communities each year. For more than 25 years, Actua has focused on identifying and removing barriers to participation in STEM. The organization delivers targeted programs for Indigenous youth, girls and young women, Black youth, youth facing economic barriers, and those in Northern and remote communities. Team members contribute to meaningful, inclusive education initiatives that have real impact across the country.
Role Description The Instructional Design Specialist is a full-time hybrid role based in Ottawa, ON, with flexibility for some work from home. The specialist will design, develop, and update engaging STEM learning experiences and curricula for diverse youth audiences across Canada. Day-to-day responsibilities include collaborating with program staff and subject matter experts to translate learning objectives into clear instructional materials, lesson plans, facilitator guides, and learner resources. The role also involves selecting and integrating appropriate instructional strategies and tools, supporting instructor-led training, and ensuring content is inclusive, culturally responsive, and aligned with Actua’s mission. The Instructional Design Specialist will evaluate program effectiveness, gather feedback, and continuously improve learning materials and approaches.
Qualifications

• Demonstrated skills in Instructional Design and Curriculum Development to create effective, learner-centered STEM programs.
• Experience with Learning Management and Training & Development, including organizing and tracking learning activities and outcomes.
• Ability to design and support Instructor-led Training, including facilitator guides, session plans, and interactive instructional strategies.
• Knowledge of inclusive and culturally responsive educational practices, especially for equity-deserving and underserved youth communities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex concepts clearly to varied audiences.
• Experience working in education, youth programming, or STEM outreach, ideally within community-based or non-profit settings.
• Proficiency with digital collaboration and content creation tools; comfort working in a hybrid environment with cross-functional teams.
• Post-secondary education in Instructional Design, Education, Educational Technology, or a related field, or equivalent combination of training and experience.