DOW SkillBridge - Unmanned Systems Aircraft Instructional Systems Design Intern

Overview

Planned Systems International (PSI) is an Enterprise IT services company who focuses on designing, building, securing, and operating cutting-edge software solutions that drive mission success and operational excellence for Federal Government organizations. We are currently seeking a highly motivated transitioning Service Member to support training and instructional content development for Unmanned Systems (UxS) programs.

The UxS Instructional Design SkillBridge Intern will help create, improve, and standardize training materials for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), Counter-UAS (C-UAS), autonomy, mission planning, flight operations, maintenance, and emerging technologies. The intern will work with subject matter experts, operators, engineers, and program managers to develop learning products that improve operator proficiency and mission effectiveness.

This SkillBridge intern will assist in designing and developing engaging learning experiences for PSI’s UAS training and certification programs. Day-to-day activities include conducting needs analyses, collaborating with subject matter experts, and supporting the creation of AI-driven curricula and course materials that align with industry standards and learning objectives. The Instructional Designer will help structure content for online and blended delivery, develop assessments and practical learning activities, and support course deployment and management through learning management systems.

• Position Type: DOW SkillBridge (Fellowship/Internship) — Fulltime, Temporary (Unpaid per DoD policy) 
• Duration: 12 weeks (target dates flexible based on command approval and candidate availability) 
• Location: Valparaiso FL - PSI Innovation Facility (on-site)

Essential Functions and Job Responsibilities

• Design and develop instructor-led, virtual, and self-paced training materials.
• Create courseware, lesson plans, student guides, training presentations, and practical exercises.
• Convert technical and operational requirements into effective learning content.
• Support development of training programs for UAS operators, maintainers, and mission planners.
• Assist with multimedia content creation, including videos, graphics, and job aids.
• Conduct training needs analyses and identify gaps in existing curricula.
• Support validation, testing, and continuous improvement of instructional materials.
• Collaborate with engineering and operational teams to maintain technical accuracy of course content.
• Apply adult learning principles and instructional systems design methodologies throughout course development.

Minimum Requirements

• Eligibility: Currently serving U.S. Service Member eligible for DoD SkillBridge (command approval required).
• Experience:
  • Experience as a UAS operator, instructor, evaluator, mission planner, maintainer, or related military specialty.
  • Familiarity with military training development processes and adult learning concepts.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience developing PowerPoint presentations, lesson plans, or training documentation.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Ability to organize technical information into clear and effective instructional content.

Desired Qualifications

• UAS, C-UAS, robotics, autonomy, or aviation experience.
• Familiarity with ADDIE, ISD, SAT, or other instructional design frameworks.
• Experience using Learning Management Systems (LMS).
• Video editing, graphic design, or multimedia development experience.
• Knowledge of Tactical Android Kit (TAK), mission planning systems, or DoD operational environments.

Additional Information

• Upon completion, the intern will be prepared for roles such as:
  • Instructional Designer
  • Training Specialist
  • Technical Trainer
  • UAS Training Developer
  • Curriculum Manager
  • Learning & Development Specialist
  • UxS Program Support Analyst

• Tools and Templates:
  • The intern will use PSI-approved tools and templates to support consistent course development. Example deliverables may include course design documents, lesson plan templates, instructor guides, student guides, practical exercise templates, assessment rubrics, storyboard templates, job aids, LMS upload checklists, and course evaluation forms.
• Application and Selection Process:
  • Interested SkillBridge candidates should submit a resume, availability window, SkillBridge approval status, clearance status, and a brief summary of relevant UAS, training, instructional design, or technical documentation experience. PSI will review candidate qualifications, confirm program fit, and coordinate next steps with the candidate and applicable transition office.

Compensation

• Compensation & Status 
  • This is an unpaid DoD SkillBridge opportunity for qualifying transitioning Service Members. 
  • Participants remain on active-duty orders and continue to receive military pay/benefits from their Service during the fellowship. 

Company Benefits

PSI offers full-time, benefits eligible employees a competitive total compensation package that includes paid leave, and options for employer sponsored group medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, AD&D coverage, legal services, identity theft, and accident insurance. Flexible spending account and health saving account options offer pre-tax savings for qualified medical, dental, and vision expenses. The company sponsored 401(k) retirement plan has an employer contribution match that is immediately vested. We invest in the professional growth of our employees through professional courses, certifications, and tuition reimbursement programs.

EEO Commitment

It is company policy to promote equal employment opportunities. All personnel decisions, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, and termination, are made without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, veteran status, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities will be provided. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Human Resources by emailing [email protected], or by dialing 703-575-8400.