Online Teaching And Learning Support Specialist

Online Teaching And Learning Support Specialist

Helena College University of Montana a comprehensive two-year college, provides access to and support of high quality lifelong educational opportunities for our diverse community. Helena College is seeking qualified applicants who wish to become part of a dynamic and creative team for a full-time position as an Online Teaching and Learning Support Specialist. The Online Teaching and Learning Support Specialist supports Helena College (HC) instructors in developing high-quality courses across all delivery formats and serves as a key member of the eLearning & Faculty Development team. Reporting to the Director of eLearning & Faculty Development, this position assists faculty in integrating effective course design and educational technologies while also supporting online learning and learners across the institution.

The HC eLearning and Faculty Development department is dedicated to supporting faculty, contributing to teaching excellence, and enhancing student success through professional development, exemplary instructional design, effective application and integration of instructional technologies, interactive digital media development, administration, and enhancement of the college's learning management system (currently Canvas), and the deployment of innovative emerging technologies. The Specialist collaborates closely with the Director to provide professional development opportunities that strengthen teaching and learning for faculty, staff, and students. This role requires strong initiative, independent decision-making, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment that values and respects diversity.

Examples Of Duties And Responsibilities

Essential duties and responsibilities associated with this position are listed below:

• Instructional Design & Course Development
• Collaborate with subject matter experts to design engaging, accessible, and outcome-aligned courses.
• Develop clear, inclusive learning materials in multiple formats (text, video, audio, visual, AI-assisted).
• Coordinate with Directors or Lead Faculty to develop course templates for programs or specific courses.
• Participate in course design reviews and revise courses as needed across modalities.

• Faculty Support & Professional Development
• Provide training and individualized support on course design, instructional technologies, and effective online teaching practices.
• Partner with departments to promote faculty development initiatives focused on student engagement and success.
• Support instructors in using the LMS and related instructional technology tools.
• Assist with onboarding and orienting new faculty---both adjunct and full-time---especially those teaching online.

• Online Student Support
• Collaborate with campus stakeholders to enhance the online learning experience and support online student success.
• Develop strategies to build a strong sense of community among online learners, supporting retention and completion.
• Create support networks and outreach initiatives for online courses and programs, including collaboration with advisors and high school counselors.
• Advocate for online students to ensure equitable access to resources and services.
• Serve as an academic coach, proactively connecting with online students and their advisors based on individual progress indicators.

• Other Responsibilities
• Create and maintain documentation, tutorials, and training resources that support course design and online teaching and learning.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

This on-campus, in-person position is based in Helena, Montana, and supports both the Donaldson and Airport campuses. The role is highly interactive and requires regular engagement with faculty and students. Flexible working hours are available.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Education, or a related field (instructional design, curriculum development, educational technology, online education, adult learning, or higher education). Preferred Master's degree in Education, Instructional or Educational Technology, Curriculum Development, or a related field; or significant teaching experience in higher education. At least one year of relevant teaching experience, preferably online and in a higher education setting. Experience designing and developing engaging learning materials and online curricula---including assessments, outcome mappings, and multimedia---using instructional design principles and collaboration with subject matter experts. Experience in project management and in designing and delivering training for adult learners. Demonstrated experience teaching and developing courses within a learning management system (preferably Canvas). Familiarity with Montana University System policies and procedures related to online education and curriculum development. Experience creating ADA- and 508-compliant content.

Additional Information

Work Schedule: Full-time, 1.0 FTE (40 Hours a week), Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm schedule. Hours and schedule may vary depending on the needs of the program. Benefits: Includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program. Union Affiliation: Focus-MFPE Probationary Period: Six months minimum Priority Application Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026 by 11:59 PM (Mountain Time) Screening of applications will begin after the closing date; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. A complete application Includes: Letter of Interest -- addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. Detailed Resume listing education and describing work experience Transcript - (Unofficial transcripts acceptable with application) Three (3) professional references - names and contact information for three (3) professional references. Incomplete applications may not be considered. Don't Meet Every Qualification? Apply Anyway! If you are excited about this role but do not meet every qualification, we encourage you to apply. We value passion, potential, and a commitment to learning. Recent Education graduates are especially encouraged to apply. Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible to work lawfully in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. The Affiliation of the University of Montana (UM Affiliation) is an equal opportunity employer. UM Affiliation does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM's non-discrimination policy and any applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. Qualified candidates may request veterans' or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.