Emerging Technologies Specialist

Syracuse University is launching SU Global to reimagine how we support and scale accessible online pathways for non-traditional learners in a dynamic, innovative, and data-driven environment. This role requires on-campus presence to foster real-time collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous problem-solving. You’ll work non-traditional hours—evenings and weekends—as needed to deliver a best-in-class experience. We seek builders who thrive in high-energy, in-person environments where innovation happens face-to-face, with flexible scheduling that follows student needs.

About the role

The Emerging Technologies Specialist, Adult & Online Learning designs and develops high-quality online courses while serving as an internal expert in emerging instructional technologies, artificial intelligence, and UX/UI design. This dual-role position contributes directly to course development and leads the exploration, evaluation, and implementation of innovative digital learning solutions. You’ll collaborate closely with faculty and cross-functional teams to produce engaging, accessible, and effective learning experiences while building institutional capacity through training, documentation, and best practices in emerging technologies.

Responsibilities

• Instructional Design & Course Development
  • Facilitate organized, adaptive meetings with faculty to gather information, establish course delivery strategies, and build buy-in for the development process.
  • Define and outline learning objectives, course structure, content delivery methods, assessments, and complementary learning approaches in collaboration with faculty.
  • Articulate and reinforce course development processes, clarify faculty responsibilities, establish milestone deadlines, and maintain accountability throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Utilize eLearning authoring tools to design interactive, engaging learning experiences.
  • Build and update courses in the LMS, ensuring content meets accessibility requirements.
  • Lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including video production and multimedia design teams, to produce draft and final versions of course material.
  • Collaborate closely with faculty and stakeholders to develop course content; maintain strong professional relationships and clear communication throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Track and report the statuses of courses throughout the development process.
  • Manage courses independently with continued support from the development team.
• Emerging Technology & Innovation
  • Serve as an internal subject matter expert on UX/UI, AI implementation, and emerging instructional technologies; translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders and leadership.
  • Research, evaluate, and implement emerging technologies, including Generative AI, in instructional design and content development; document best practices and contribute to institutional innovation strategy.
  • Explore and integrate innovative digital learning solutions into course and program development.
  • Design AI-driven workflows and automation strategies to improve efficiency in content production, iteration, and delivery at scale.
• Training & Professional Development
  • Provide training sessions, workshops, and resources for instructional designers and related staff to build capacity in UX/UI, AI, and emerging technologies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Instructional Design, User Experience Design, Education Technology, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in instructional design.
• At least 3 years of experience applying UX/UI design and/or AI implementation in a digital learning environment.
• Hands-on experience with AI tools and applications, including:
  • Building or leveraging automations and AI agents to scale content creation and delivery.
  • Evaluating, piloting, and documenting emerging AI tools for instructional use.
• Experience with HTML for basic formatting and accessibility adjustments within LMS environments.
• Knowledge of instructional design frameworks and models.
• Experience with eLearning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate Rise, PlayPosit).
• Demonstrated experience designing and developing online courses, including building content in a Learning Management System (e.g., Blackboard).
• Experience applying ADA-required accessibility standards, adult learning theories, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex or technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective professional relationships with faculty, team members, and stakeholders.

Skills and Knowledge

• Preferred Qualifications
  • Certification or formal training in UX/UI design.
  • Certification or formal training in AI.
  • Experience developing courses for higher education.
  • Experience in teaching/training.
  • Experience in programming.