Instructional Systems Design; ISD Specialist

Instructional Systems Design (ISD) Specialist Position Summary

Dark Star Intelligence is looking for an experienced instructional systems design specialist to develop classroom-based course materials for complex subject matter to support a government client in Landover, MD.

Location: Washington, D.C.

FLSA Status: Regular, Full-Time

Security Clearance Level: TS/SCI with Preferred Counterintelligence Polygraph

Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. Citizens.

Position Type: On-Site

• Applies ISD knowledge and experience to develop in-classroom instructional materials and methods including, but not limited to, training plans, storyboards, narrative scripts, graphics, tests and evaluation methods, and scenarios.
• Assists with identifying and creating instructional material to address field-driven performance shortfalls and client training needs.
• Is knowledgeable of and adheres to standards set by the Council on Occupational Education as well as DoD instructional systems design methodology.
• Supports course documentation including, but not limited to the course design document, instructor/facilitator and student guides, course syllabus, practical exercises, assessments, and related materials.

• U.S. Citizenship
• Current Top Secret/SCI Government-Sponsored Clearance
• Counterintelligence Polygraph Preferred
• Bachelor's degree in instructional design, curriculum development, human resource development, education, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience developing classroom-based course materials for complex subject matters.
• A certificate in instructional design with 7 years of experience developing classroom-based course materials is acceptable in lieu of a Bachelor's degree.
• Working understanding of DoD instructional systems design methodology.
• Excellent written communication skills.

Dark Star Intelligence is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) committed to advancing national security through mission support and tradecraft development. We prioritize both client satisfaction and employee retention, delivering high-quality, intelligence‑based solutions grounded in our "Core Four" values:

• Humility: We place mission success above personal recognition.
• Passion: We bring enthusiasm and dedication to every challenge.
• Agility: We adapt quickly to evolving operational needs.
• Ownership: We hold ourselves accountable for results and uphold the highest standards of excellence.

We are mission-driven and results-oriented, striving to make our country safer through every task we undertake.

At Dark Star Intelligence LLC, we are committed to maintaining a professional and legally compliant work environment where individuals are treated with respect and fairness. We adhere strictly to all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations.

Employment decisions at Dark Star are made solely on the basis of individual qualifications, performance, and business needs. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment—including hiring, compensation, promotion, training, discipline, and termination—on the basis of:
Race or color, Religion, Sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), National origin, Age, Disability, Genetic information, Veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Our EEO standards are embedded in all employment practices to ensure compliance, fairness, and accountability. We enforce a zero-tolerance policy for unlawful discrimination or harassment and encourage employees to report concerns without fear of retaliation.

EEO Flyer: shorturl.at/abpNX

Core Benefits for employees:

• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Income Protection: Life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability
• Retirement Planning: 401(k) plan with employer contributions
• Work‑Life Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and legal services
• Paid Leave: Generous PTO, 11 paid federal holidays, and one floating holiday

• Legal & Identity Protection: Legal Shield and IDShield
• Additional Insurance: Whole life, accident, and critical care coverage

We believe in recognizing and supporting the professionals who make our mission possible. Your well-being is an investment in our collective success.