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Harvard University

Director of Learning Experience and Design

Closes:

Salary: $90,000 – $105,000 per year

83
Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Graduate School of Education?

The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and employees who are passionate about changing the world through education and striving for maximum impact in the field of education.

Many choose to work at the Harvard Graduate School of Education because they believe in our mission and are excited by our vision for the future. We have a reputation as a great place to work, for our excellent leadership, and we are a strong community that values diversity. For more information about HGSE, its programs, research, and faculty, please visit: www.gse.harvard.edu.

Job Description

Job Summary:
The Director of Learning Experience and Design serves as a key senior member of the Professional Education (PPE) team at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. The Director joins the Portfolio Director (PD) team and reports to the Senior Portfolio Director. In this critical leadership role, the Director manages the Learning Experience and Design (LXD) team of learning designers and learning technologists to drive the strategic development and continuous improvement of high-quality, learner-centered programs and extensions, focusing primarily on online, hybrid, and on-demand. The Director collaborates closely with the other Portfolio Directors, faculty, practitioners, and external partners to ensure the design and implementation of innovative learning experiences that align with HGSE's mission and advance its positive impact on the education sector.

The Director oversees the program design process-including instructional design and course development-and provides leadership in identifying and adopting new educational technologies and best practices. They will be responsible for developing and leading a team of learning designers and technologists to ensure adequate support for a growing online portfolio of program offerings. In addition to direct personnel management, the Director helps shape PPE's online program strategy and processes, champions continuous improvement, and upholds rigorous quality and accessibility standards across all program modalities. The ideal candidate is an experienced people manager and project lead with a strong track record managing technical teams; demonstrated expertise in project management, instructional systems design, and vendor/contractor management; and a proven ability to lead the design, development, and implementation of professional learning solutions for education practitioners.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Program and Course Design Leadership (40%)
  • Lead the creation, implementation, and continuous improvement of instructional design standards, processes, and practices across the PPE portfolio.
  • Serve as the primary liaison with HGSE faculty, Portfolio Directors, and subject matter experts to translate learning goals into compelling, research-informed learning experiences.
  • Oversee learning design for online, blended, and on-demand programs for professional educators, ensuring alignment with adult learning principles and instructional best practices.
  • Lead the integration of innovative learning technologies and multimedia resources to enhance the engagement and effectiveness of PPE programs, courses, and extensions.
  • Serve as an administrative leader of a portfolio of programs and related professional development opportunities designed to support educational leaders across the US and globally.
Team and Project Management (30%)
  • Direct, manage, and mentor the LXD team of learning designers and technologists, supporting their growth and ensuring high performance across multiple, concurrent projects.
  • Allocate LXD team resources proactively across the department to meet portfolio and program priorities, adapting and reassigning dynamically as needed. Delegate tasks and foster collaboration and professional development within the team.
  • Proactively assess projects to identify when additional technical support is needed and clearly determine when to engage external resources including external contractors, vendors, or specialty experts-to successfully meet scope, schedule, and quality requirements. Recruit, hire, and manage those positions to complete the projects successfully.
  • Work with the Senior Portfolio Director to ensure the team is equipped with the necessary resources and support to achieve their objectives. Collaborate with the Teaching and Learning Lab (TLL) to share resources and co-develop programs.
  • Oversee LXD project timelines, budgets, and deliverables, maintaining effective communication with stakeholders and ensuring projects are completed on schedule and within budget.
  • Manage video and media production teams and contractors, both within HGSE and elsewhere, to achieve high quality within budget.
  • Instill a deadline-driven, data-informed, and results-oriented team culture focused on program quality and learner outcomes.
Program Quality Assurance, Delivery, and Assessment (20%)
  • Partner with PPE's Program Delivery team on online programs to ensure that the staff are trained, the learners have a seamless experience, and the Delivery team can incorporate their feedback into program improvements.
  • Partner with PPE's Insights & Impact (I&I) team to develop and implement program evaluation frameworks and to monitor and improve the efficacy of learning experiences. Collect and analyze data on in-course participant engagement to inform rapid-cycle improvements and promote best-in-class program quality.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure accessibility, inclusivity, and consistency across all program designs and delivery modalities.
  • Contribute to the strategic direction of PPE's learning design and technology portfolio, participating in leadership discussions and long-term planning.
  • Stay abreast of trends in learning design, educational technology, generative AI, and professional learning for educators, assessing and integrating relevant innovations.
  • Partner with the TLL, degree programs, and other HGSE units to develop courses, adopt technologies, and share learning assets.
Manage Accreditation Process (10%)
  • Manage and implement the organization-wide accreditation process, including drafting and submitting IACET annual reports.
  • Keep abreast of any new or updated IACET standards, educate PPE stakeholders and update PPE's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to remain in alignment with evolving standards.
Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in education, instructional design, learning science, or a related field.
  • Minimum of five years of relevant work experience in instructional design or learning design, including at least three years in a supervisory or team leadership role managing instructional technologists and/or learning designers.
  • Demonstrated expertise in course design and instructional design models, including experience with learning management systems (Canvas or comparable platform).
  • Experience and skills in adopting and applying emerging educational technologies, multimedia, and generative AI to course development.
  • Proven project management experience leading complex, multi-stakeholder projects to successful, on-time completion.
  • Any candidate wishing to be considered must supply a cover letter in addition to their resume. Please upload both as one document.
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
  • Doctoral degree (Ed. D. or Ph. D.) preferred.
  • Experience leading professional development or adult learning program design in higher education or K-12 settings.
  • Strong track record of fostering staff development and building cohesive, collaborative teams.
  • Experience with learning analytics, assessment methodologies, and using data to inform program improvement.
  • Experience working with faculty, school leaders, and subject matter experts.
  • Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple competing projects in a dynamic, deadline-driven environment.
  • Strong commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and universal design for learning.
  • Familiarity with the changing landscape of professional and online education.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Additional Information
  • Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
  • Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable): $90,000 - $105,000 commensurate with experience
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity and Education
Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 058. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks
Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title
Director of Learning Experience and Design
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Published
Oct 26, 2026
Closes:
Dec 26, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Instructional Technology and Design
Salary

Salary: $90,000 – $105,000 per year

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About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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