PRIMARY PURPOSE/SCOPE
Bluefield University seeks a visionary and mission-driven Director of Instructional Design to lead the development and enhancement of the university’s online academic offerings. This role ensures that all online courses meet high standards of pedagogical excellence, accessibility, and alignment with the university’s Christ-centered mission. The Director oversees the instructional design team and collaborates with faculty to create engaging, effective digital learning environments.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND FUNCTIONS
Strategic Leadership & Management
- Lead the Instructional Design team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and professional accountability.
- Establish and maintain university-wide standards for online course quality using research-based rubrics (e.g., Quality Matters).
- Manage the course development lifecycle from initial conceptualization to final launch.
- Partner with Academic Deans and Faculty to design and revise online curriculum.
- Evaluate emerging educational technologies and lead their implementation within the Learning Management System (LMS).
- Ensure all online content complies with ADA Section 508 and WCAG accessibility standards.
- Develop and facilitate professional development workshops on online pedagogy and digital tools.
- Provide high-level consultations for faculty on complex instructional challenges.
- Analyze data on student engagement and learning outcomes to drive iterative course improvements.
- Coordinate the peer-review process for online courses.
- Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Required
- Master’s degree in Instructional Design, Educational Technology, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in instructional design within higher education.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a supervisory role.
- Expertise in Learning Management Systems (Canvas, Blackboard, or Moodle).
Preferred
- Doctorate in a related field.
- Quality Matters (QM) Coordinator or Peer Reviewer certification.
- Experience with curriculum development in a private, faith-based institutional setting.
ERGONOMIC REQUIREMENTS
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. This position is primarily sedentary; however, it requires the ability to remain at a workstation for extended periods and utilize computer equipment.
Working Conditions and Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the duties, responsibilities, and functions of this job. This position is remote-eligible as part of Bluefield University Online; however, the employee must maintain a professional workspace with reliable high-speed internet. Occasional travel to the main campus in Bluefield, VA, may be required for strategic planning and leadership retreats.
QUALIFICATION STANDARDS
- A Christian commitment and lifestyle that acknowledges a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a personal commitment to the Christian purpose and mission of Bluefield University.
- Professional appearance and presentation in the working environment.
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
This position is subject to at least an annual evaluation based upon the job duties, responsibilities, and functions as set forth above.
APPROVALS
The job duties, responsibilities, functions, and requirements delineated above should not be interpreted as an all-inclusive list. Additional duties may be assigned as deemed appropriate. The University reserves the right to change or reassign job duties or combine positions at any time. The University maintains its status as an at-will employer.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
To apply, please visit https://www.bluefield.edu/employment/ to complete the electronic staff employment application and upload:
- Letter of interest
- Resume/CV
- Three professional references
- Personal statement of Christian faith.
Hard copy application materials may be sent to the Human Resources Department at Bluefield University, 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, VA 24605.
Additional information about Bluefield University is available at www.bluefield.edu.
To be considered for this position, all application requirements listed above must be completed.
Bluefield University is a Christ-centered learning community developing servant leaders to transform the world. We are looking to hire employees who will embrace this mission.
Bluefield University is a private, not-for-profit institution affiliated with the Baptist General Association of Virginia. Bluefield University shall not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, age, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other basis on which the University is prohibited from discrimination under local, state, or federal law, in its employment or in the provision of its services, including but not limited to its programs and activities, admissions, educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other University-administered programs. This institution encourages women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply.