Subject Matter Experts
Transforming Knowledge into Impact
NOCTI/NBS is excited to kick off its 2026-27 Development Projects. We are looking for passionate Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to help us update and refine assessments that directly impact the next generation of skilled professionals. This is your opportunity to collaborate with other professionals, ensure accuracy and relevance in credentialing, and contribute to high-quality tools for hiring, teaching, and learning. SMEs play a critical role in maintaining the quality and relevance of our credentials. Opportunities are flexible and compensated based on the level and type of contribution…scroll down to learn more about how you can get involved!
Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are an essential part of a successful credential development or revision project. SMEs are business and industry representatives and teachers (secondary and postsecondary) who have at least three years of technical experience in the field. Led by a trained NOCTI facilitator, SME teams evaluate existing standards and content to ensure revised and new credentials measure competency at the industry-standard level.
By becoming an SME, you’ll help shape the assessments that measure industry standards, ensure workforce readiness, and empower individuals to excel in their chosen careers. Join us in driving innovation, supporting educators, and creating opportunities for tomorrow’s skilled professionals!
SME Development Steps
🔵 Independent Work 🟠Group Discussion (virtual)
🟠Job and Task Analysis
Identify the specific duties, responsibilities, skills, knowledge, and abilities required to perform a job effectively.
🔵 Content Validation Study
Validate the work completed in the Job and Task Analysis step by rating the criticality of the competencies for a particular technical area.
🟠Assessment Blueprint Development
Determine which standards and competencies will be on the assessment and how test items get distributed.
🔵🟠Multiple-Choice Item Development
Select, review, and create multiple-choice test items aligned to competencies in the blueprint.
🔵🟠Performance Job Development
Create hands-on performance jobs aligned to competencies in the blueprint and/or Job and Task Analysis.
🔵 Independent Review
Provide a final review of all assessment materials prior to pilot to ensure the test content is current, valid, industry-relevant, and appropriate for secondary and post-secondary administration.
🟠Pilot Test Analysis Review
Use information from the pilot assessment to help make edits to items and jobs to increase the test’s psychometric strength.
🔵🟠Standard Setting Process
Work with a psychometrician to determine one (or more) passing scores for the assessment.
Commitment Levels
Choose from three different commitment levels to best fit your needs.
Full Engagement
Immerse yourself in every stage of the development and revision process. By dedicating 18 to 20 hours as a Full Engagement SME, you’ll help shape the future by contributing to key milestones from development to implementation:
- Job and Task Analysis
- Assessment Blueprint Development
- Multiple-Choice Item Development
- Performance Job Development
- Pilot Test Analysis
- Standard Setting Process
Foundational Impact
Make a big difference early in the process! With a commitment of 13 to 18 hours as a Foundational Impact SME, you’ll play a key role in shaping the building blocks for success:
- Assessment Blueprint Development
- Multiple-Choice Item Development
- Performance Job Development
Flexible Contributions
We know your time is valuable, so here’s how you can still make a meaningful impact in a more flexible way. Choose one or more focused opportunities to lend your expertise:
- Job and Task Analysis (4 to 6 hours)
- Content Validation Study (1 hour or less)
- Independent Review (4 to 6 hours)
- Standard Setting Process (2 to 4 hours)
Testimonials
Let the voices of expertise speak—hear directly from those who’ve been through the process!
“Once I experienced the test review process, I saw the value in making myself available to assist. Not only am I helping the industry, but I am helping my students and myself.”
“Mechanically, the test development process is brilliantly executed. Somehow, NOCTI administrators were able to distill the chaotic inputs from a very technically diverse team and formulate a comprehensive testing process. The framework that NOCTI has generated to facilitate this kind of information gathering is highly efficient and made the entire experience that much more enjoyable.”
“I am always looking for opportunities to help build the next generation of professionals. Helping develop the products for NOCTI as an SME was a unique way to have a broad impact on students across the nation.”
Subject Matter Expert FAQs
Learn more about serving as an SME by reading our Frequently Asked Questions.
What is considered when selecting SMEs to serve on a team?
Each team is carefully balanced with individuals from a variety of states in differing regions of the U.S., representing a mix of secondary/post-secondary/business and industry. Background, qualifications, at least 3 years of recent experience, type of experience (industrial or educational), and skills related to the test title are considered to determine selection of the best possible candidates. Familiarity with NOCTI assessments is not required.
What happens after I apply?
After you apply, our team reviews your background and areas of expertise. When an opportunity aligns with your experience and availability, we’ll reach out with details about the project, expectations, time commitment, and compensation. Applying does not obligate you to participate — you can always decide whether a specific opportunity is the right fit.Â
Due to the volume of applications, we are not able to respond individually to each candidate. An SME not selected for a current project will be considered for a future project. Â
What does a typical SME experience look like?
All SME work is completed remotely. Activities may involve facilitated group discussion, independent work, or both—it depends on the step in the development process and your commitment level. A NOCTI facilitator guides each step, provides clear instructions, and ensures your time is used efficiently.Â
How long does the development process take?
The overall development process can span several months from start to finish, but SME participation occurs at specific points throughout the project—not continuously over that entire timeframe. The amount of time required depends on your selected commitment level and the scope of the project (for example, whether the assessment includes a performance component or is written‑only). For the most accurate information about timing and expectations for a specific project, we encourage you to submit a question using the form below.Â
Will my name or organization be publicly associated with the assessment?
No. SMEs are not publicly associated with specific assessments beyond, in some cases, listing their state representation to ensure geographic diversity. Individual names, employers, or organizations are not publicly tied to assessment content. Â
That said, we greatly appreciate when SMEs help make connections to industry organizations, professional associations, or potential endorsement partners. These connections are entirely optional but can play a valuable role in strengthening industry alignment and recognition.Â
I've been invited to participate in a Health Check. What is that?
A Health Check (also called a Full Content Review) is an independent review that supports NOCTI’s ongoing assessment maintenance process. SMEs review an existing assessment and provide feedback on content accuracy, technical currency, and relevance to current industry practices. The review is completed independently within a set timeframe, with brief follow‑up if needed.Â
Do SMEs get paid for their work?
Yes. SMEs receive honorariums that correspond to their commitment level and the activities involved therein. Please note: Some school districts and states have rules regarding payment for SME work.
Can professional development/continuing education hours be earned for serving as an SME?
Questions?
If you still have any questions about becoming a Subject Matter Expert, we’re here to help! Send us a message with this form and we’ll be in touch shortly.
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