Training Specialist - Manufacturing

job purpose:

The Training Specialist is responsible for identifying and addressing the plant training needs to ensure that all employees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their roles effectively. This role involves conducting comprehensive training needs analyses, coordinating and monitoring new hire training, and collaborating with department managers and certified trainers to develop and deliver targeted training programs. The Training Specialist will also manage training records, track skill gaps, and continuously assess the effectiveness of training initiatives to drive performance improvements and support the organization's operational goals.

responsibilities:

• Conduct department training needs analysis
• Track and communicate skill gaps for each department
• Coordinate new hire training with supervisors to meet the needs of the shift
• Coordinate and monitor new hire weekly observations, surveys and feedback with shift supervisors
• Meets with department managers to update them on training statuses and plan for department specific training needs.
• Work closely with certified trainers to conduct training performance evaluations and give feedback and coach for improved performance
• Assist in scheduling, planning and leading quarterly Certified Trainer meetings
• Develop or find training material for ongoing certified trainer training
• Assist in teaching Certified Trainer Class
• Support new hires and certified trainers with needs through the new hire training process
• Track new hire work assignments and satisfaction for 60 and 90 days after onboarding is completed
• Work with LMS administrator to track and record all training activities and proficiencies for all departments and maintain accurate reporting and current training skills matrix
• Works with LMS administrator to input training into the LMS
• Can fill in and perform LMS administrator duties as assigned
• Maintains site specific observation checklists in the LMS
• Coordinates with site and shift leadership to ensure that training programs are delivered, and personnel are qualified to perform the operations for which they have been trained
• Work with SME's to determine job specific training curriculum and transform technical information into supporting training materials (SOPs, instructional videos, and other training documents)
• Coordinate cross-training needs with supervisors and develop individual plans to execute and complete cross-training
• Assess effectiveness of current training, identify gaps, and work with leadership and SME's to solve training issues
• Coordinate all trainings internally and with third party vendors
• Submits qualified trainings for training grants
• Manage Training Request Form
• Write POs for training and maintain plant-wide training calendar
• Maintain a training calendar and communicate all training events with leadership and employees
• Assist in onboarding new hires
• Perform other duties as assigned

skills/qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Instructional Design, Technical Writing, Human Resources preferred
• Mechanical background or strong mechanical aptitude
• Understanding of mechanical, maintenance, and manufacturing terminology
• Strong communication tools and the ability to collaborate with SMEs and department leadership
• Ability to work independently and manage projects and timelines
• Proactive, adaptable, detail oriented and results driven
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
• Able to work in a manufacturing setting
• Understanding of adult learners and learning styles
• Ability to create learning paths and supporting training materials
• Proficient in MS Office Suite and above average computer skills
• Experience with a LMS a plus

working conditions and physical requirements:

• 10 hours sitting/standing/walking
• Ability to lift up a minimum of 50 lbs.

food safety requirements:

• Notify supervision of any repairs or adjustments that are required that may affect product quality or food safety.
• Understand, observe, and comply with the handling and usage of the color-coded container policy while in the Production Areas.
• Perform all duties necessary to meet Company, Customer and/or Government requirements/standards as prioritized by the Company.
• Ability to initiate action to prevent the occurrence of nonconformities relating to Food Safety and the Quality of the product, processes, quality system, or safety system.
• Identify and record any problems relating to Food Safety and the Quality of the ingredients, processes, quality system, or safety system.
• Control further processing or delivery of nonconforming product in terms of Food Safety and Quality issues until the deficiency or unsatisfactory condition has been corrected.
• In the event of absence, another employee with the same skill level will assume the duties and responsibilities as required.

position location: Coopersville, MI

reports to: Training Manager (Coopersville)

travel requirements: Minimal (possible 5%)

exempt/nonexempt: Exempt