Instructional Designer

Part-Time Instructional Designer (K-12 Computer Science)

The Northern Lights Collaborative for Computing Education at the University of Minnesota is seeking a part-time professional to develop high-quality curriculum and professional learning for K-12 computer science. This work supports the expansion of NLC's offerings across programming, AI literacy, data science, and cybersecurity that are grounded in inclusive, culturally responsive pedagogy and aligned to K-12 MDE content and CSTA standards.

This is a 0.5 FTE appointment (part-time) for the summer months (June - August) with school year hours varying from approximately 5 to 15 hours / week depending on the project tasks.

Work location: Remote

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Primary Responsibilities:

Instructional Design (80%)

• Design culturally responsive learning experiences grounded in current best practices. * Create accessible instructional materials using Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and that adhere to federal regulations.
• Develop K-12 computer science curriculum resources aligned to relevant standards. * Create project-based learning experiences that help learners apply concepts. * Write clear, measurable learning outcomes and align activities and assessments to those outcomes.
• Sequence and structure module topics with attention to pacing, scaffolds, and accessibility.
• Build assessments that allow learners to demonstrate learning in multiple ways. * Develop course media/resources (e.g., slide decks, facilitator guides, handouts, LMS-ready content).

Collaboration (20%)

• Collaborate closely with NLC staff and external partners to ensure alignment with project goals, academic expectations, and classroom realities.
• Communicate progress clearly, meet deadlines, and manage tasks across multiple workstreams.

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS degree plus at least four years of related experience, or a combination of education and related work experience to equal at least eight years
• Strong writing and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience developing inclusive, culturally responsive CS curriculum aligned to K-12 CS standards.
• Teaching experience in K-16 CS (formal or informal) using equitable instructional practices.
• Experience leading K-12 CS professional learning that supports adult learners (facilitation, coaching, or similar).
• Knowledge of and experience with common K-12 CS tools, programming languages, and learning platforms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience centering the needs of K-8 teachers and learners in CS instruction. * Experience developing online learning.
• Experience teaching or developing materials in AI/ML, data science, and/or cybersecurity.
• Experience coaching or mentoring CS educators.
• Experience with preservice and inservice CS education programs.
• Project management experience (scoping work, timelines, dependencies, stakeholder coordination).
• BA/BS plus at least 4 years of experience or master's degree plus at least 2 years of experience in instructional design, curriculum development, education, or a closely related field.

The Northern Lights Collaborative for Computing Education develops evidence-based programs and resources in collaboration with educators and partners that support and partners inclusive K-16 computing education.

Pay Range: $34.82 - $46.14/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 50% Appointment (summer); <50% variable (school year)

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

Please include a resume and cover letter with this application.

The application review will begin on May 22, 2026.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).