Learning Technology Manager

Position Details

Location : Hybrid : 3 days / week in Lansing, MI office

POSITION SUMMARY :

The Learning Technology Manager leads and oversees the technology operations for Michigan Virtual’s Professional Learning Services team, as well as providing occasional technology support to pilot programs sponsored by MVLRI (Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute).

This role is responsible for managing a small team to ensure the effective administration, operation, maintenance, and support of learning technologies.

The manager plays a crucial role in implementing the organization’s strategic plan related to learning technologies. As a working manager, this position combines leadership responsibilities with hands-on technical work, actively participating in day-to-day operations alongside team management duties.

Michigan Virtual Work that Makes a Difference

Michigan Virtual is a Lansing-based nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation where every employee contributes to advancing K-12 education through digital learning, research, innovation, policy and partnerships.

Our Mission is to Maximize learning and teaching by bringing together the best in people and technology.

Our Vision is to Be Michigan’s leader for innovation in education.

Our Values are : Put Learners First, Act with Integrity, Champion Diversity, Commit to Excellence, and Cultivate Creativity.

We believe in a culture of caring. A people-first culture that strives to make every employee feel valued. Find out more about our culture, workplace and benefits.

Diversity is more than just a value to us. Having a people-first culture means being inclusive of diversity in all forms and honoring all employee voices.

For Michigan Virtual diversity is a critical component to innovation.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES :

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION :

• Lead and execute strategic initiatives to enhance the digital ecosystem, security, and data privacy across Learning Technologies, aligning with organizational objectives.
• Research and stay current on Learning Technology advancements and technical standards, identifying opportunities for innovation and process improvement.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the team and across the organization.
• Understand Michigan Virtual’s complex program needs and design, test, and implement solutions that support the organization’s mission and vision.

TEAM MANAGEMENT :

• Oversee daily team operations, including functional requirements of Learning Technology.
• Train, coach, and mentor team members on workflows, processes, and best practices.
• Ensure creation and maintenance of internal documentation on workflows and processes.
• Collaborate with team members to improve processes and manage task prioritization.
• Monitor team backlog and reprioritize high-priority work as needed.

TECHNICAL OPERATIONS :

• Manage the development process for the SIS, including system testing and feature implementation.
• Oversee updates to learning management systems, including testing, documentation, and communication to staff and customers.
• Implement and maintain best practices for system efficiency, scalability, and reliability.
• Troubleshoot advanced technical issues and provide escalation support.
• Manage urgent issues, outages, and system troubles, ensuring clear communication and timely resolution.
• Support help desk tickets as needed, often supporting the team on new helpdesk workflows and questions.

COLLABORATION AND STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT :

• Serve as the in-house Learning Technology expert, delegating work to team members as appropriate.
• Provide training to Michigan Virtual staff and external partners as required.
• Manage complex issues and act as the main point of contact for outside vendors.
• Collaborate closely with other Michigan Virtual leaders, particularly the other Learning Technology Manager, to : Coordinate initiativesStreamline processesBuild capacity within the Technology Operations teamEnsure alignment of technology strategies across the team and organization
• Communicate clearly with team members and stakeholders, adhering to organizational policies and procedures.

DATA ANALYTICS, PRIVACY, AND SECURITY :

• Manage data practices, reporting, and system functions in Learning Technology.
• Train teams on data accuracy processes and implement data auditing procedures.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations (, FERPA, COPPA).

PROJECT MANAGEMENT :

• Manage projects for new Learning Technology tools or products.
• Oversee the testing of new external tool integrations or content within the LMS.
• Documents and creates reports and presentations on new features and changes to Learning Technology.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Continuously expand knowledge of educational technology trends and best practices.
• Perform tasks at a high level of quality and utilize complex problem-solving skills to solve issues.
• Other duties as assigned by senior leadership.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE :

Required :

• Master’s degree in Information Technology, Educational Technology, Instructional Design, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in : Managing teams in educational technology or similar fields.Overseeing complex learning management systems and educational technology projects.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning and implementation of educational technology initiatives.
• Experience with large-scale technology implementation and change management.
• Experience in K-12 technology systems, online / blended course development, or online teaching.

Preferred :

• Experience with web-based applications : CRM, registration systems or student information systems.
• Experience with SCORM-compliant resource development and integration.
• Proficiency in RESTful API development using Python, JavaScript, or Java.
• Familiarity with web technologies (CMS, HTML, JavaScript, CSS).
• Data analysis and reporting skills.
• Familiarity with MS Windows (desktop and server), file management, server security, and backup procedures.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES :

• Expert knowledge of current trends and best practices in educational technology and online learning
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to mentor and develop staff
• Excellent project management skills, including budget management and resource allocation
• Advanced problem-solving and decision-making abilities, especially in complex, multi-stakeholder environments
• Superior communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical concepts to non-technical audiences
• Proficiency in data-driven decision-making and analytics
• Deep understanding of privacy and security concerns in educational technology
• Demonstrated ability to : Develop and implement strategic technology plans aligned with organizational goalsFoster innovation and continuous improvement within a teamBuild and maintain relationships with external partners and vendorsNavigate complex organizational structures and drive cross-functional collaborationBalance multiple priorities and manage high-pressure situations effectivelyFamiliarity with relevant laws and regulations affecting educational technology (, FERPA, COPPA)Commitment to staying current with emerging technologies and their potential applications in education

WORK ENVIRONMENT and / or PHYSICAL DEMANDS :

• The work environment characteristics and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job.
• The work environment is an open office where the work of others may be a cause of distraction.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.
• Sit in a normal seated or standing position in front of a computer for extended periods.
• Visual and auditory acuity is required.
1 day ago