What is L&D?
Learning & Development (L&D) refers to a vast field that provides the systematic process of designing, developing, and delivering educational or training programs and materials…
This post covers the expanded list of common roles in the L&D industry, which covers a range of positions that are typically found in the field. These roles span from entry-level to senior positions and cater to different specializations within L&D.
Everyone who runs a company should
employ a Learning & Development professional
Most L&D professionals we know got into the profession almost by chance, or as we like to say, serendipitously. The typical story is they were in a completely different role and pulled into a project to help a coworker (or many) learn a new way of doing things or about a new product that was just like the old one but different. The joy they felt in helping their colleague stuck with them. They wanted to do it again and again. This is the basis for instructional design.
These roles reflect the diversity of positions available within the Learning & Development field, ranging from entry-level to senior positions and specialized areas. Depending on your background and career goals, you may find a role that best aligns with your experience, whether it’s in instructional design, training delivery, or leadership development.
Roles
These are just a few of the many roles within the Learning & Development field. The responsibilities of each role can vary depending on the project, organization, and specific role.
Instructional Designer
Creates learning programs for specific audiences.
ID Assistant
A junior role supporting IDs in the creation of materials and content systems.
L&D Coordinator
Manages training programs with employees and vendors.
Support Specialist
Provides technical support for learners and trainers.
E-Learning Developer
Assists IDs with digital learning technologies.
Learning Experience Designer
Focused on overall experience and learner satisfaction.
Content Developer
Creates materials in collaboration with instructional designers.
Training Specialist
Facilitates learning programs for internal and external projects.
Learning Analyst
Uses metrics to improve and adapt training programs.
Sr. Instructional Designer
Leads design team(s) and works closely with leadership.
L&D Manager
Manages L&D programs and initiatives within an organization.
Learning Consultant
Advises organizations on strategies for their learning goals.