Instructional Systems Specialist

Qualifications Candidates must have one year (52 weeks) of SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (FV-I or FG/GS-13) that is typically related to the line of work of the position to be filled and which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position successfully. To be creditable, specialized experience must have been at least equivalent to the next lower level in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE is defined as: Experience analyzing and validating instructional content for technical occupations to prepare reports and recommendations on the use of new or improved content delivery methodologies. Experience in applying project management principles to lead and monitor the work of instructional designers tasked with developing training materials. Experience applying new Instructional System Design Methods and technologies such as experiential learning; blended learning to develop or maintain training material and curricula. You should include relevant examples of the specialized experience in your work history. Errors or omissions may impact your rating or may result in you not being considered. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. DO NOT ASSUME THAT BECAUSE YOU HOLD, OR HAVE HELD THIS POSITION, YOU WILL AUTOMATICALLY BE FOUND ELIGIBLE. You may be asked to provide evidence or documentation that you have this type of experience later in the selection process. Your responses are subject to verification through job interviews, or any other information obtained during the application process. Any exaggeration of your experience or any attempt to conceal information can result in disqualification. *Applicants who fail to demonstrate possession of any of the above criteria AND who do not provide the required documentation will receive no further consideration for this position. * Applicants may be asked to verify information on your application for employment with the FAA. **All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this vacancy announcement.** Eligible applicants meeting the minimum qualification requirements and/or selective placement factor(s) (SPF) may be further evaluated on the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA) and/or Quality Ranking Factor (QRF) listed in the announcement. Based on this evaluation, applicants will be placed in one of the following categories: (1) score order; (2) category grouping; or (3) alphabetical and referred to the selecting official for selection consideration.

The Instructional Systems Specialist is a recognized expert in instructional system design who applies knowledge of learning theory and the principles, methods, practices, and techniques of instructional design to lead highly complex and challenging activities involving the development of instructional design standards and structure across the Air Traffic Organization's technical training curriculum. The work is performed under the minimal direction of the Team Manager and has a direct impact on the objectives of the Technical Operations Service Unit to its ability to maintain and install National Airspace System (NAS) systems and equipment. As a principal specialist, applies skills to conduct technical training courses for a complex technical workforce to develop new and innovative approaches, methodologies, and to define, direct, and consult on challenging projects, programs, and activities related to technical training programs at Air Traffic Control facilities. Performs analyzes of technical occupations or job tasks to develop instructional methods, techniques and competencies for the Air Traffic Controllers (A TC) and Airway Transportation Systems Specialists (ATSS) workforce. Develops new and innovative approaches to support and improve the instructional effectiveness of training materials, including identifying learning objectives, and aligning objectives with training content and assessments. Identifies and resolves challenging problems or issues that often cross- organizational boundaries between ATO Service Units and that impact on the accomplishment of strategic objectives. The Specialist applies new instructional System Design Methods and technologies such as experiential learning (gaming/simulation); blended learning (e.g. Blackboard) to develop and/or maintain training material and curricula and to analyze and study technical training programs. Makes recommendations for the best modality for the training content. Uses learning content management system software technology to revise existing instructional courses, and to develop new training activities. Incorporates existing and new emerging learning technologies to delivery training strategies ensuring that all training programs leverage appropriate adult learning principles. Provides guidance to less-experienced professionals to support and improve the instructional effectiveness of training materials, including identifying learning objectives, aligning objectives with training content and assessments. Researches and analyzes new technologies to evaluate the impact on the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) short- and long-term training development. Applies experience analyzing and validating instructional content for technical occupations to prepare reports and recommendations on the use of new and/or improved content delivery methodologies. The Specialist uses experience applying project management principles to lead large project teams, and to monitor and oversee the work of instructional designers tasked with developing ATC/ ATSS training materials. Performs project management duties to include scheduling and facilitating project meetings, maintaining project timelines and managing training development teams that include subject matter experts, content developers and other necessary project team personnel. Plans and executes project assignments with multiple deadlines, and coordination of various milestones with management and staff. Contacts are internal and external and include representatives from all ATO service units, labor organizations, the military and aviation industry. The Specialist often represents AJI as a principle point of contact to provide advice and guidance on instructional design standard development. Consults with subject matter experts to design and develop training materials. Frequently represents AJI on training committees and in meeting to discuss and implement technical training initiatives for the operational workforce.