Why Join arenaflex?
arenaflex is a global leader in aerospace and defense, delivering cutting‑edge technologies that power the nation’s air, space, and cyber capabilities. Our Global Services division partners with the U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Army to create high‑impact training solutions that keep pilots, aircrew, and maintainers at the top of their game. As part of the ever‑expanding Courseware Design & Instruction (CD&I) team, you will help shape the next generation of learning experiences for fighter jets, autonomous aircraft, bombers, and vertical‑lift platforms.
At arenaflex, we champion a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Whether you are an emerging talent or a seasoned designer, you will find mentorship, professional growth, and a supportive environment that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
Position Overview
The Associate or Mid‑Level Customer Instructional Systems Designer will design, develop, and evaluate technical learning solutions for our Air Dominance portfolio. You will work closely with subject‑matter experts (SMEs), program managers, and stakeholders across the Navy and Air Force to translate complex aviation concepts into engaging, performance‑based training.
Key Responsibilities
- Learning Solution Design: Craft instructional architectures that align with customer goals, mission objectives, and regulatory requirements for platforms such as the F‑18, F‑15, and emerging autonomous aircraft.
- Needs Analysis & Research: Conduct thorough analyses of learning objectives, stakeholder expectations, and learner characteristics to inform design decisions.
- Course Structure Recommendations: Advise stakeholders on optimal course sequencing, delivery modalities (e‑learning, instructor‑led, blended), and content scaffolding.
- Design Review Facilitation: Lead design review sessions, incorporate feedback, and ensure documentation meets all contractual and compliance standards.
- Content Development Support: Partner with graphic artists, developers, and SMEs to produce multimedia assets, simulations, and scenario‑based assessments that meet defined learning outcomes.
- Effectiveness Evaluation: Apply Kirkpatrick’s evaluation model and data‑driven analytics to measure training impact, gather learner feedback, and recommend iterative improvements.
- Innovation & Technology Exploration: Stay current with emerging instructional technologies (AR/VR, AI‑driven adaptivity, micro‑learning platforms) and propose how they can enhance arenaflex’s training portfolio.
Essential Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Instructional Design, Education, Human Performance, Engineering, or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience applying Instructional Systems Design (ISD) methodologies such as ADDIE, SAM, or Rapid Prototyping.
- Hands‑on experience with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Learning Record Stores (LRS) for tracking learner progress and data analysis.
- Strong analytical skills – ability to interpret learning data, conduct gap analyses, and produce actionable design recommendations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills tailored to technical and non‑technical audiences.
- U.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain a Secret security clearance; ability to comply with export‑control regulations.
Preferred Qualifications & Experience
- Master’s degree in Instructional Technology, Adult Learning, or a related discipline.
- Prior experience designing training for aviation or defense platforms (e.g., fighter jets, UAVs, or rotary‑wing aircraft).
- Familiarity with performance‑based training standards such as DOD Instructional Systems Development (DoDI 1322.26) or FAA training regulations.
- Proficiency with authoring tools such as Articulate 360, Adobe Captivate, Camtasia, or similar.
- Experience creating high‑fidelity simulations using Unity, Unreal Engine, or custom military training software.
- Knowledge of data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI) for presenting training effectiveness metrics.
Core Skills & Competencies
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to dissect complex operational concepts and translate them into digestible learning modules.
- Collaboration: Comfortable working in cross‑functional teams, building consensus, and managing stakeholder expectations.
- Project Management: Skill in managing timelines, deliverables, and resources in a fast‑paced environment.
- Technical Literacy: Understanding of aviation terminology, systems engineering basics, and the unique challenges of military training.
- Creativity & Innovation: Passion for exploring new instructional strategies and integrating emerging tech to enhance learner engagement.
- Quality Focus: Commitment to adhering to rigorous defense standards, documentation protocols, and continuous improvement practices.
Compensation, Benefits, & Perks
arenaflex offers a competitive total rewards package designed to attract, retain, and motivate top talent:
- Base Salary: Ranges from $66,300 – $118,450 depending on experience and level (Associate to Mid‑Level).
- Variable Compensation: Performance‑based bonuses and incentive plans tied to project milestones.
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; health savings accounts.
- Retirement Plans: 401(k) with generous company match and optional pension contributions.
- Life & Disability Insurance: Robust protection for you and your family.
- Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays, along with special leave for military service and civic duties.
- Learning & Development: Tuition assistance, professional certification reimbursement, and access to internal learning portals.
- Employee Assistance Programs: Confidential counseling, legal resources, and financial planning services.
- Work‑Life Flexibility: Opportunities for remote or hybrid work arrangements where mission‑critical activities allow.
Career Growth & Development Opportunities
At arenaflex, your career trajectory is shaped by ambition and support. As you deliver high‑impact training solutions, you will gain exposure to:
- Strategic program leadership roles within the Defense Training portfolio.
- Advanced certifications such as Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) or ATD Instructional Design Certificate.
- Mentorship programs pairing you with senior instructional architects and defense subject‑matter experts.
- Cross‑functional rotations into curriculum engineering, simulation development, or program management.
- Opportunities to lead large‑scale, multi‑year contracts for the Navy, Air Force, and Army, positioning you for senior instructional design or acquisition leadership positions.
Work Environment & Culture
arenaflex fosters an inclusive, collaborative workplace where ideas thrive. Our team members enjoy:
- A mission‑driven atmosphere focused on national security and technological advancement.
- Open‑door communication with senior leadership, encouraging feedback and continuous improvement.
- Diverse, multicultural teams spanning multiple U.S. locations (St. Louis, MO; Tukwila, WA; Jacksonville, FL; Oklahoma City, OK; Ridley Park, PA).
- State‑of‑the‑art facilities, secure labs, and virtual collaboration tools that support both on‑site and remote work.
- Employee resource groups that celebrate different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
Eligibility & Legal Requirements
- U.S. Person status as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- No relocation assistance is provided for this position.
- Visa sponsorship is not available; candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
If you are ready to contribute to cutting‑edge defense training initiatives and grow your instructional design career with arenaflex, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Apply Now
Join arenaflex – Where Your Designs Power the Skies of Tomorrow
Take the next step in your professional journey. Bring your expertise, creativity, and passion for learning to an organization that values innovation, excellence, and service to the nation. We look forward to welcoming you to the arenaflex family.