Why are most of the training jobs that I see advertised for instructional designers and not for facilitators?

To answer your question:
* Instructional design takes a much longer time to produce a quality product than it does to train a facilitator to teach a class. Thus, more IDs are needed if the project is time-sensitive.
* IDs can build in pre- and post-classwork, thus reducing the amount of time for facilitators and participants to be in the classroom.

The last job I had was working in a training department for a large hotel organization. Over the past several decades (since computers came out), the focus for training gradually shifted from classroom instruction to CBT (Computer Based Training).

The company’s goal was to provide the best and most consistent training possible as quickly as possible. CBT training worked well for learning certain skills like how to use the chain-wide computer system. It also reduced the amount of time needed to bring new managers up-to-speed on the history and culture of our company before they came to a management training class.

What we learned is that CBT is not a substitute for certain skills, such as sales and customer service. This takes classroom discussion, role-playing, and then actual practice in the real world. It also required follow-up after the class.

Like you, I prefer facilitation over instructional design. It is rare to find someone who enjoys both. From what I’ve witnessed you might be better off seeking out independent training companies that deliver both ID and facilitation to other companies. When we needed to outsource our training needs due to high demand, there were several companies that were hired to work with us. Their business was not limited to the hotel industry. If you would like some leads, feel free to send me a PM, and I would be glad to share the names of these companies.

Another factor to keep in mind is that during recessions, training is one of the first areas to be cut. Sad, but true.

Without instructional design, trainers have nothing to train. Also, exceptional instructional design can almost be trained by anyone . . . not just those who are talented trainers. ISD is the core and the foundation. It’s where the emphasis should be IMO.