At Schwab, you’re empowered to make an impact on your career. Here, innovative thought meets creative problem solving, helping us “challenge the status quo” and transform the finance industry together. We believe in the importance of in-office collaboration and fully intend for the selected candidate for this role to work on site in the specified location(s).
Schwab’s Wealth & Advice Solutions (WAS) organization offers industry-leading wealth management services to both retail and registered investment advisor (RIA) clients.
The WAS Learning & Development (L&D) team is responsible for the strategic planning, content development, concept design and delivery of our wealth management skill-based curriculum at Schwab. In direct support of this mandate, the incumbent for this role will be a versatile instructional designer with platform management experience.
Summary & Objectives
This role combines the expertise of an Instructional Designer and an LMS Administrator, providing end-to-end learning solutions for Schwab’s Wealth & Advice Solutions (WAS) organization. The incumbent will architect engaging learning experiences, design and deliver instructional content, and serve as a steward for the learning management system (LMS). This dual focus ensures that high-quality training resources are created, implemented, and delivered seamlessly through a reliable platform that supports advisors, managers, and internal stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Instructional Design
The WAS L&D Instructional Designer helps architect learning experiences, guiding the development of engaging and effective educational content. Their responsibilities encompass the entire instructional design process, from initial analysis to final evaluation.
Analyzing Learning Needs and Developing Learning Objectives: Instructional designers initiate projects by conducting thorough analyses of the learners’ needs, organizational requirements, and desired outcomes. This involves gathering data, consulting with stakeholders, and identifying gaps in skills or knowledge. Based on these findings, they craft clear and measurable learning objectives and learning outcomes that guide the design and delivery of content.Creating Engaging and Effective Learning Content: Utilizing evidence-based design principles and adult learning theories, instructional designers develop a variety of learning materials, including online courses, interactive modules, videos, simulations, and assessments. The aim is to foster deep understanding, retention, and application of knowledge, catering to diverse learning styles through multimedia, scenario-based learning, and self-paced modules.Collaborating with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs): Designers work closely with SMEs to ensure that all content is accurate, up-to-date, and relevant. This collaboration involves iterative feedback, content reviews, and the translation of complex concepts into accessible learning materials.Developing and Implementing Evaluation Methods: To ensure learning objectives are met, instructional designers create formative and summative assessment tools. These may include quizzes, assignments, rubrics, surveys, and feedback mechanisms. Evaluation extends beyond the learners to include the effectiveness of the instructional strategy, allowing for continuous improvement.Staying Up to Date on Trends and Best Practices: The field of instructional design is dynamic, with new theories, technologies, and practices emerging regularly. Designers are expected to stay informed through professional development, research, and networking, ensuring their work remains innovative and effective.
Learning Platform Support
This role will also act as steward for the WAS L&D learning management system (LMS). Their technical responsibilities are critical to support the broader WAS L&D team and set of programs for seamless delivery of online and blended learning.
Providing Technical Support: Designers support WAS L&D colleagues with program maintenance and navigation issues associated with the LMS. They serve as a point of contact for troubleshooting issues, answering user questions, and facilitating access.Troubleshooting Technical Issues: When technical problems arise, designers diagnose and resolve issues related to course content, user access, system functionality, and third-party integrations. This involves clear communication, patience, and resourcefulness.Managing User Accounts and Access: Designers oversee the creation and maintenance of user profiles, course enrollments, and permissions within the LMS, ensuring data accuracy and privacy.Ensuring System Functionality: Monitor the LMS’s performance, applying updates, patches, and configuration changes as needed. This responsibility is essential for maintaining a reliable learning environment.
Project Management
Instructional designers frequently oversee multiple projects, requiring strong organizational and management skills.
Managing Multiple Projects: Juggle various initiatives simultaneously, from new course development to technology implementations. This requires effective prioritization, time management, and adaptability.Tracking Project Progress: Monitor timelines, milestones, and deliverables using project management tools and regular reporting. Designers identify potential risks and proactively address challenges.Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitate stakeholder meetings, gather feedback, and align expectations throughout the project lifecycle. What you have
Skills and Qualifications
To excel in the role of instructional designer and learning technology specialist, candidates must possess a diverse set of skills and qualifications.
Required Qualifications
Core Competencies
Instructional Design Principles and Learning Theories: Mastery of foundational models such as ADDIE, Bloom’s Taxonomy, Universal Design for Learning, and adult learning theory is essential for creating pedagogically sound content.Proficiency with Learning Management Systems: Experience administering and developing courses within systems like Cornerstone, Allego, or SuccessFactors, ensuring effective content delivery and user management.Authoring Tools Expertise: Familiarity in industry-standard tolls such as Articulate Storyline, Rise360, and Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premier Pro), and Camtasia, empowers designers to create interactive, multimedia-rich learning experiences, paired with expertise in SCORM file development and rendering to ensure seamless system integration, accurate tracking, and reliable learner data capture. Communication, Interpersonal, and Presentation Skills: Designers must articulate ideas clearly, facilitate discussions, and present solutions to diverse audiences. Strong interpersonal skills foster collaboration and partnership.Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities: The capacity to diagnose learning challenges, interpret user feedback, and implement effective solutions is vital for continuous improvement.Collaborative and Independent Work: Designers thrive both as contributing team members and autonomous professionals, balancing group dynamics with personal initiative.Online Course and Training Material Development: Demonstrated experience designing and delivering online learning resources reflects the practical application of instructional theory.Multimedia Development and Web Technologies: Knowledge of graphics, animation, video production, web design, and accessibility standards is essential for creating inclusive and engaging learning experiences.Accessibility Guidelines and Best Practices: Commitment to accessibility ensures that learning is equitable for all participants, including those with disabilities. Familiarity with WCAG and Section 508 guidelines is often required.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in instructional design, educational technology, or a related field.Certification in project management (e.g., PMP, Agile) or instructional design (e.g., ATD, AECT).Experience working in higher education, corporate training, or nonprofit learning environments.Demonstrated portfolio of developed coursework, modules, or eLearning resources.Commitment to ongoing professional development and a passion for innovation in teaching and learning.
In addition to the salary range, this role is also eligible for bonus or incentive opportunities.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without employer sponsorship.
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At Schwab, we’re committed to empowering our employees’ personal and professional success. Our purpose-driven, supportive culture, and focus on your development means you’ll get the tools you need to make a positive difference in the finance industry.
We offer a competitive benefits package to our full-time employees that takes care of the whole you – both today and in the future:
401(k) with company match and Employee stock purchase plan Paid time for vacation, volunteering, and 28-day sabbatical after every 5 years of service for eligible positions Paid parental leave and family building benefits Tuition reimbursement Health, dental, and vision insurance Application FAQsSoftware Powered by iCIMS
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