Fast Facts

The Learning and Development Specialist at American Student Assistance (ASA) will be responsible for developing and implementing training programs to enhance employee skills and foster a culture of continuous growth within the organization.

Responsibilities: Key responsibilities include assessing training needs, creating individualized learning roadmaps, designing and delivering training programs, and measuring their effectiveness across the organization.

Skills: Candidates should have 8–10 years of experience in learning and development, proficiency with Learning Management Systems, strong communication skills, and an understanding of adult learning principles.

Qualifications: Preferred qualifications include professional certification in learning and development, experience in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations, and familiarity with leadership development.

Location: The position is based in Boston, Massachusetts with a hybrid work schedule, requiring two days a week in the office.

Compensation: $115000 - $157000 / Annually

THE ROLE: Learning and Development Specialist

American Student Assistance™ (ASA) is national nonprofit that is changing the way kids learn about careers and prepare for their futures through access to career-readiness information and experiences.

ASA fulfills its mission through free digital-first direct experiences, philanthropy, advocacy, thought leadership, groundbreaking research, and impact investing. We believe that exploring career possibilities, as early as middle school, and providing access to education-to-career pathways aligned with one’s passions and goals will result in greater confidence and long-term success for all students.

We are looking for a Learning and Development Specialist. This role will play a pivotal role in advancing ASA’s mission by equipping employees with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive. In this highly collaborative role, you’ll assess learning needs, design engaging programs, and help drive a culture of continuous growth and professional development across the organization.

You’ll have the opportunity to shape ASA’s learning strategy — from onboarding and leadership development to DEI learning and technical skill-building — ensuring every team member has the opportunity to learn, grow, and lead.

What You’ll Do:

• Learning Strategy & Needs AssessmentPartner with the VP, People & Culture to develop and execute ASA’s learning and development strategy.
• Conduct organizational needs assessments to identify skill gaps and learning priorities aligned with business goals.
• Create an annual learning roadmap that supports talent development, engagement, and retention.
• Stay informed on industry trends and best practices in workplace learning and organizational development.
• Program Design & ImplementationDesign and deliver high-impact learning programs that span the employee lifecycle — including leadership development, onboarding, DEI learning, and upskilling initiatives.
• Develop blended learning solutions using instructor-led, virtual, and self-paced modalities.
• Manage ASA’s Learning Management System (LMS), ensuring effective content management and reporting.
• Collaborate with internal subject matter experts and external vendors to deliver high-quality learning content.
• Curate external learning resources (LinkedIn Learning, webinars, conferences) to enhance internal programs.
• Facilitation & Employee EngagementCreate engaging training materials, job aids, and performance support tools grounded in adult learning principles.
• Facilitate live and virtual workshops, lunch-and-learns, and team development sessions.
• Coach and support managers in conducting effective performance and career development conversations.
• Champion a culture of learning by promoting available resources and encouraging continuous skill growth.
• Measurement & Continuous ImprovementDefine success metrics and dashboards to measure program effectiveness and impact.
• Analyze learner feedback and performance data to refine programs and demonstrate ROI.
• Present insights and recommendations to the VP, People & Culture and senior leadership.
• Organizational Development SupportSupport initiatives related to career pathing, competency modeling, and succession planning.
• Develop tools and resources to strengthen performance management processes.
• Contribute to ASA’s commitment to learning, inclusion, and engagement through communication and collaboration initiatives.

About You:

• 8–10 years of experience in learning and development, instructional design, or organizational effectiveness.
• Demonstrated success designing and facilitating learning programs for hybrid or remote workforces.
• Proficient with Learning Management Systems and digital learning tools (Articulate, Rise, Canva, LinkedIn Learning, etc.).
• Strong communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects in a dynamic environment.
• Deep understanding of adult learning principles, instructional design, and behavior change strategies.
• Collaborative and mission-driven, with a passion for supporting others’ growth.

Preferred:

• Professional certification (ATD CPLP, CPTD, SHRM-CP, or PHR).
• Experience in nonprofit, education, or mission-driven organizations.
• Familiarity with leadership development frameworks and performance coaching.

Salary Range: $115,000 - $157,000

American Student Assistance is committed to fair and transparent pay. In determining compensation, we consider a variety of job-related factors, including prior experience, certifications and licenses, skills and expertise, geographic location, and internal equity.

We take a total compensation approach, meaning we look beyond salary alone to support, reward, and recognize the whole individual. Depending on role eligibility, your offer may also include a bonus, 403(b) retirement plan participation, generous paid time off, and comprehensive health and life insurance benefits. As a result, final offer amounts may vary from the salary range listed in the job posting. Join our mission-driven organization to enjoy these perks and benefits as well as investment in your growth, contributions, and future.

Why ASA?

ASA offers a wide range of perks and benefits to Team Members, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision healthcare plans, a retirement plan (plus match), weekly lunches, commuter benefits, and tuition reimbursement.

We also heavily prioritize a healthy work/life balance, which is why we offer all full-time Team Members generous PTO options, Summer Fridays (every Friday off between Memorial Day and Labor Day), and a company holiday break between December 25th and January 1st.

ASA works in a Hybrid schedule (2) two days a week in our Boston HQ. We prioritize strategic thinkers, collaborators, and work/life pros who are looking to help make a difference in kid's education and career goals.

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