Instructional Designer Jobs in California
Instructional Designer jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in technology, higher education, healthcare, and state government agencies, with openings at every level from entry-level content developers through senior learning experience leads. The largest hiring markets are Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, where employers such as Kaiser Permanente, Salesforce, and the University of California system maintain ongoing instructional design needs. The most in-demand specialties are eLearning development, learning management system administration, and corporate onboarding program design. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Instructional Designer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 27+ Instructional Designer jobs
Exemption Status:
United States of America (Exempt) $71,614 - $95,784 - $119,953“Pay scale information is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any selected candidate or employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, qualifications, and other factors. A full review of our comprehensive pay and benefits will be discussed at the offer stage with the selected candidate.”
This position is not eligible for Sponsorship.
MedImpact Healthcare Systems, Inc. is looking for extraordinary people to join our team!
Why join MedImpact? Because our success is dependent on you; innovative professionals with top notch skills who thrive on opportunity, high performance, and teamwork. We look for individuals who want to work on a team that cares about making a difference in the value of healthcare.
At MedImpact, we deliver leading edge pharmaceutical and technology related solutions that dramatically improve the value of health care. We provide superior outcomes to those we serve through innovative products, systems, and services that provide transparency and promote choice in decision making. Our vision is to set the standard in providing solutions that optimize satisfaction, service, cost, and quality in the healthcare industry. We are the premier Pharmacy Benefits Management solution!
Job Description
Summary
The Instructional Designer I assists in the design of fundamental Government Programs and Services (GPS) training programs through mediums including utilization of e-learning content and other instructional materials to engage and facilitate learners in acquiring new skills and knowledge. These training materials are generally related to their jobs, the company’s product and program offerings. These efforts include crafting and updating work instructions which assist in documenting and training internal and client-facing processes. This position will be a combination of the development of learning materials for both internal and external users, but facilitate trainings for both internal and external clients.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- The Instructional designer analyzes current needs, designs, develops, implements and evaluates the delivery of fundamental or baseline GPS training programs.
- In conjunction with the Training Manager, determines instructional goals and objectives for each learning project. Where possible, assists in the analysis of the target audience’s current state of knowledge, skills and any gaps to identify learning objectives and outcomes.
- Develops and evaluates a set of planned strategies targeted for attaining the project or learning outcomes and goals. Documents the projects instructional, visual and technical design strategy; create storyboards, designs the user interface and user experience; creates prototypes and applies visual or graphic design.
- Researches course matter by interviewing subject matter experts, consulting management/ industry experts and relevant domains of source material.
- Develops interactive training materials that include sound instructional design methodology including presentations, instructor and participant guides, classroom activities, practice exercises and handouts.
- Determines and implements the process for the delivery of training programs which may include training facilitators, conducting “Train the Trainer” sessions and/or directly training learners. Creates the course curriculum, learning objectives, as well as methods of delivery and testing procedures.
- Delivers training through a variety of presentation formats (e-learning, instructor led classroom style, individual or departmental meetings). Creates supporting material/media such as user guides, job aids, quizzes, audio, video, role plays, games and simulations, as well as exercises and activities to enhance the learning process.
- Produces and provides materials that serve to educate other internal departments about basic elements of Medicaid and federal requirements for Medicaid programs.
- Promotes knowledge sharing and the efficient use of technology accessing relevant documentation, making communications accessible to employees through internal repositories such as Confluence, TMS (Learning Management System) and the intranet.
- Develops and delivers new hire training programs and other continuing education training designed for Medicaid Operations staff; monitors employee progress throughout the duration the training. Assists in the establishment and maintenance of new hire training, tracking milestones and providing assessments.
- Participates in ongoing self-development to ensure knowledge is current and proficiency in training skills remains high. Remains current on the latest instructional design concepts, reviewing existing standards and attending seminars and courses that assist in the adoption of new design methodology. Retains familiarity with learner and facilitator guide standards.
- Assumes a lead role with subject matter experts, including Program Managers, Leads and Supervision to develop course content.
- Applies instructional design theories and methods, utilizing multimedia tools to enhance the learning process. This includes building training and technical manuals for use by clients utilizing both MedImpact and adjunct vendor systems.
- Monitors federal resources for updated policies related to the Medicaid Program, Medicaid State Directors Letters, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPR), listserves, etc to identify any upcoming changes to Medicaid and notifies Training Manager of any items that could impact MedImpact.
Supervisory Responsibilities
No supervisory responsibilities
Client Responsibilities
This is an internal and external client facing position that requires excellent customer service skills and interpersonal communication skills (listening/verbal/written). One must be able to; manage difficult or emotional client situations; Respond promptly to client needs; Solicit client feedback to improve service; Respond to requests for service and assistance from clients; Meet commitments to clients.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and/or Experience
BS/BA and 5+ years’ experience or equivalent combination of education and experience, and 2 years' of SME in respective areas
Computer Skills
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have a strong working knowledge of Instructional design software and tools (Adobe Captivate, Articulate Presenter/Storyline, Photoshop, Illustrator and Flash), web and application development languages, experience using a LMS to host content; video production tools; Microsoft Office Suite including expertise with PowerPoint. Must have a demonstrated ability to learn new software.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Industry certifications in instructional design, curriculum development, and performance improvement is strongly preferred.
Other Skills and Abilities
- Strong working knowledge and demonstrated skills using ADDIE for instructional and curriculum design, applying systematic development of learning experiences.
- Must have curriculum design skills in technical and operational areas. Proficient at analyzing processes and making recommendations for improvements. Ability to effectively communicate information, policies, and/or procedures in a manner easily understood by the recipient.
- Talented at investigating and analyzing information to draw conclusions. Demonstrated aptitude to work well with diverse individuals.
- Demonstrated capacity to gather and analyze data and make recommendations to manage growth and change.
- Able to document work in progress.
- Strong analytical, verbal and written communication skills; good interpersonal, public speaking, instructional organizational and time management skills.
- Must be able to work effectively with diverse individuals.
- Demonstrated maturity of judgment under pressure and the ability to resolve/mediate problems. Apt to maintain a high degree of confidentiality, using tact, discretion and professionalism in all aspects of the job. Strong attention to detail and follow-through skills.
- Demonstrate high commitment to the subject and each training event. Show genuine concern for the participants.
Reasoning Ability
- Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
- Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
Mathematical Skills
- Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
- Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
Language Skills
- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
Competencies To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Composure
Decision Quality
Organizational Agility
Problem Solving
Customer Focus
Drive for Results
Peer Relations
Time Management
Dealing with Ambiguity
Learning on the Fly
Political Savvy
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 accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Ability to maintain clear near visual acuity at approximately 20 inches or less (i.e., “close vision”) to accurately read fine print, view computer screens, and handle small objects. Requires adequate color vision and depth perception to support safety and precision in detail-oriented tasks.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This position may regularly be exposed to or encounter moving mechanical parts, high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, outdoor weather conditions, risk of electrical shock or vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate (examples: business office with computers and printers, light traffic).
Work Location
This position works on-site at the San Diego Headquarters or other company location (or from a remote location with management approval based on business requirements). Must provide adequate support to internal clients; be available for regular interactions and coordination of work with other employees, colleagues, clients, or vendors; as well as be available to facilitate effective decisions through collaboration with stakeholders.
Working Hours
This is an exempt level position requiring the incumbent to work the hours required to fully accomplish job responsibilities and reasonably meet deadlines for work deliverables. The individual must have the flexibility to work beyond traditional hours and be able to work nights, weekends or on holidays as required. Work hours may be changed from time to time to meet the needs of the business. Typical core business hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Travel
This position requires domestic travel of up to 20% of the time.
The Perks:
Medical / Dental / Vision / Wellness Programs
Paid Time Off / Company Paid Holidays
Incentive Compensation
401K with Company match
Life and Disability Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement
Employee Referral Bonus
To explore all that MedImpact has to offer, and the greatness you can bring to our teams, please submit your resume to www.medimpact.com/careers
MedImpact, is a privately-held pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) headquartered in San Diego, California. Our solutions and services positively influence healthcare outcomes and expenditures, improving the position of our clients in the market. MedImpact offers high-value solutions to payers, providers and consumers of healthcare in the U.S. and foreign markets.
Equal Opportunity Employer, Male/Female/Disabilities/Veterans
OSHA/ADA:
To perform this job successfully, the successful candidate must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Disclaimer:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.
Exemption Status:
United States of America (Exempt) $71,614 - $95,784 - $119,953“Pay scale information is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any selected candidate or employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, qualifications, and other factors. A full review of our comprehensive pay and benefits will be discussed at the offer stage with the selected candidate.”
This position is not eligible for Sponsorship.
MedImpact Healthcare Systems, Inc. is looking for extraordinary people to join our team!
Why join MedImpact? Because our success is dependent on you; innovative professionals with top notch skills who thrive on opportunity, high performance, and teamwork. We look for individuals who want to work on a team that cares about making a difference in the value of healthcare.
At MedImpact, we deliver leading edge pharmaceutical and technology related solutions that dramatically improve the value of health care. We provide superior outcomes to those we serve through innovative products, systems, and services that provide transparency and promote choice in decision making. Our vision is to set the standard in providing solutions that optimize satisfaction, service, cost, and quality in the healthcare industry. We are the premier Pharmacy Benefits Management solution!
Job Description
Summary
The Instructional Designer I assists in the design of fundamental Government Programs and Services (GPS) training programs through mediums including utilization of e-learning content and other instructional materials to engage and facilitate learners in acquiring new skills and knowledge. These training materials are generally related to their jobs, the company’s product and program offerings. These efforts include crafting and updating work instructions which assist in documenting and training internal and client-facing processes. This position will be a combination of the development of learning materials for both internal and external users, but facilitate trainings for both internal and external clients.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- The Instructional designer analyzes current needs, designs, develops, implements and evaluates the delivery of fundamental or baseline GPS training programs.
- In conjunction with the Training Manager, determines instructional goals and objectives for each learning project. Where possible, assists in the analysis of the target audience’s current state of knowledge, skills and any gaps to identify learning objectives and outcomes.
- Develops and evaluates a set of planned strategies targeted for attaining the project or learning outcomes and goals. Documents the projects instructional, visual and technical design strategy; create storyboards, designs the user interface and user experience; creates prototypes and applies visual or graphic design.
- Researches course matter by interviewing subject matter experts, consulting management/ industry experts and relevant domains of source material.
- Develops interactive training materials that include sound instructional design methodology including presentations, instructor and participant guides, classroom activities, practice exercises and handouts.
- Determines and implements the process for the delivery of training programs which may include training facilitators, conducting “Train the Trainer” sessions and/or directly training learners. Creates the course curriculum, learning objectives, as well as methods of delivery and testing procedures.
- Delivers training through a variety of presentation formats (e-learning, instructor led classroom style, individual or departmental meetings). Creates supporting material/media such as user guides, job aids, quizzes, audio, video, role plays, games and simulations, as well as exercises and activities to enhance the learning process.
- Produces and provides materials that serve to educate other internal departments about basic elements of Medicaid and federal requirements for Medicaid programs.
- Promotes knowledge sharing and the efficient use of technology accessing relevant documentation, making communications accessible to employees through internal repositories such as Confluence, TMS (Learning Management System) and the intranet.
- Develops and delivers new hire training programs and other continuing education training designed for Medicaid Operations staff; monitors employee progress throughout the duration the training. Assists in the establishment and maintenance of new hire training, tracking milestones and providing assessments.
- Participates in ongoing self-development to ensure knowledge is current and proficiency in training skills remains high. Remains current on the latest instructional design concepts, reviewing existing standards and attending seminars and courses that assist in the adoption of new design methodology. Retains familiarity with learner and facilitator guide standards.
- Assumes a lead role with subject matter experts, including Program Managers, Leads and Supervision to develop course content.
- Applies instructional design theories and methods, utilizing multimedia tools to enhance the learning process. This includes building training and technical manuals for use by clients utilizing both MedImpact and adjunct vendor systems.
- Monitors federal resources for updated policies related to the Medicaid Program, Medicaid State Directors Letters, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPR), listserves, etc to identify any upcoming changes to Medicaid and notifies Training Manager of any items that could impact MedImpact.
Supervisory Responsibilities
No supervisory responsibilities
Client Responsibilities
This is an internal and external client facing position that requires excellent customer service skills and interpersonal communication skills (listening/verbal/written). One must be able to; manage difficult or emotional client situations; Respond promptly to client needs; Solicit client feedback to improve service; Respond to requests for service and assistance from clients; Meet commitments to clients.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and/or Experience
BS/BA and 5+ years’ experience or equivalent combination of education and experience, and 2 years' of SME in respective areas
Computer Skills
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have a strong working knowledge of Instructional design software and tools (Adobe Captivate, Articulate Presenter/Storyline, Photoshop, Illustrator and Flash), web and application development languages, experience using a LMS to host content; video production tools; Microsoft Office Suite including expertise with PowerPoint. Must have a demonstrated ability to learn new software.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Industry certifications in instructional design, curriculum development, and performance improvement is strongly preferred.
Other Skills and Abilities
- Strong working knowledge and demonstrated skills using ADDIE for instructional and curriculum design, applying systematic development of learning experiences.
- Must have curriculum design skills in technical and operational areas. Proficient at analyzing processes and making recommendations for improvements. Ability to effectively communicate information, policies, and/or procedures in a manner easily understood by the recipient.
- Talented at investigating and analyzing information to draw conclusions. Demonstrated aptitude to work well with diverse individuals.
- Demonstrated capacity to gather and analyze data and make recommendations to manage growth and change.
- Able to document work in progress.
- Strong analytical, verbal and written communication skills; good interpersonal, public speaking, instructional organizational and time management skills.
- Must be able to work effectively with diverse individuals.
- Demonstrated maturity of judgment under pressure and the ability to resolve/mediate problems. Apt to maintain a high degree of confidentiality, using tact, discretion and professionalism in all aspects of the job. Strong attention to detail and follow-through skills.
- Demonstrate high commitment to the subject and each training event. Show genuine concern for the participants.
Reasoning Ability
- Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
- Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
Mathematical Skills
- Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
- Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
Language Skills
- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
Competencies To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Composure
Decision Quality
Organizational Agility
Problem Solving
Customer Focus
Drive for Results
Peer Relations
Time Management
Dealing with Ambiguity
Learning on the Fly
Political Savvy
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 accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Ability to maintain clear near visual acuity at approximately 20 inches or less (i.e., “close vision”) to accurately read fine print, view computer screens, and handle small objects. Requires adequate color vision and depth perception to support safety and precision in detail-oriented tasks.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This position may regularly be exposed to or encounter moving mechanical parts, high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, outdoor weather conditions, risk of electrical shock or vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate (examples: business office with computers and printers, light traffic).
Work Location
This position works on-site at the San Diego Headquarters or other company location (or from a remote location with management approval based on business requirements). Must provide adequate support to internal clients; be available for regular interactions and coordination of work with other employees, colleagues, clients, or vendors; as well as be available to facilitate effective decisions through collaboration with stakeholders.
Working Hours
This is an exempt level position requiring the incumbent to work the hours required to fully accomplish job responsibilities and reasonably meet deadlines for work deliverables. The individual must have the flexibility to work beyond traditional hours and be able to work nights, weekends or on holidays as required. Work hours may be changed from time to time to meet the needs of the business. Typical core business hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Travel
This position requires domestic travel of up to 20% of the time.
The Perks:
Medical / Dental / Vision / Wellness Programs
Paid Time Off / Company Paid Holidays
Incentive Compensation
401K with Company match
Life and Disability Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement
Employee Referral Bonus
To explore all that MedImpact has to offer, and the greatness you can bring to our teams, please submit your resume to www.medimpact.com/careers
MedImpact, is a privately-held pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) headquartered in San Diego, California. Our solutions and services positively influence healthcare outcomes and expenditures, improving the position of our clients in the market. MedImpact offers high-value solutions to payers, providers and consumers of healthcare in the U.S. and foreign markets.
Equal Opportunity Employer, Male/Female/Disabilities/Veterans
OSHA/ADA:
To perform this job successfully, the successful candidate must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Disclaimer:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.
See All 27 Instructional Designer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Instructional Designer JobsInstructional Designer Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Instructional Designer Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Fashion & Apparel
- Staffing & Recruiting
- Electronics & Hardware
- Consulting & Professional Services
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in instructional designer jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in instructional design, education technology, or a related field
- Proficiency with eLearning authoring tools such as Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate
- Experience administering or building courses within a learning management system
- Demonstrated ability to apply adult learning theory and instructional design models
- Portfolio of completed eLearning modules, job aids, or blended learning programs
- Strong collaboration skills for partnering with subject matter experts across departments
Instructional Designer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a instructional designer in California?
California has no state-issued license for instructional designers, so entry depends on education and demonstrated skills. Most California employers expect at least a bachelor's degree in instructional design, educational technology, or a related field, and many prefer candidates with a master's. A portfolio showing completed eLearning courses, facilitator guides, or blended learning programs carries significant weight in the California market alongside recognized credentials such as the ATD Certified Professional in Talent Development.
How much do instructional designers make in California?
Instructional designers in California earn a median of about $97,010 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $50,740 for the lowest 10% to over $152,260 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire instructional designers in California?
Employers hiring instructional designers in California right now include Notre Dame de Namur University, ALO, and Apple, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. California's concentration of technology firms, large healthcare systems, and public universities means demand is distributed across the private sector and government institutions alike.
Which California cities have the most instructional designer jobs?
The cities with the most instructional designer openings in California are Belmont, San Diego, and Los Angeles. Los Angeles and San Francisco account for the largest share, driven by their dense clusters of technology companies, entertainment studios, and major healthcare networks, while San Diego's strong biotech and defense sectors and the Sacramento area's state government agencies and higher education institutions generate steady regional demand.
Are there remote instructional designer jobs in California?
Yes, and more than most fields. Instructional design is largely screen-based work involving course authoring, virtual collaboration with subject matter experts, and LMS administration, all of which translate well to remote settings. About 71% of instructional designer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, reflecting how widely distributed California employers have become since building out distributed learning teams. Roles tied to in-person facilitation or on-site compliance training are the most likely to require a physical presence.
How can I get hired as a instructional designer in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is building a portfolio through volunteer, freelance, or academic projects and then targeting associate or junior instructional designer roles at California's large public university systems, community college districts, or state agencies, which hire at entry level more consistently than most private employers. Organizations such as the California Community Colleges system and UC campuses run structured onboarding for newer designers. Moving laterally from adjacent roles such as training coordinator, curriculum developer, or corporate trainer is also common. Completing an ATD or eLearning Guild credential and publishing sample modules strengthens applications significantly.
Where can I find and apply to instructional designer jobs in California?
You can find and apply to instructional designer jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across technology, healthcare, education, and government sectors. Find the roles that fit your background and apply directly from the listing.
See All 27 Instructional Designer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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