Senior Learning and Development Specialist

Empire Southwest•Mesa, AZ

5d•$77,000 - $110,000•Onsite

About The Position

Ready to shape the future of leadership and learning? In this role you will design and deliver high-impact people skills and leadership training across a multi-generational workforce spanning three states in one of Caterpillar’s top dealerships in North America, Empire Southwest (Construction, Mining, Power Systems, Rental, Technical Shops, and more). You’ll blend strong facilitation and instructional design expertise to create engaging, learner-centered experiences reflecting modern adult learning and microlearning strategies. You’ll elevate leadership capability, improve learning transfer and ROI, and help shape the future of L&D across the organization. You’ll partner closely with business leaders to identify skill gaps, build targeted solutions, and enhance employee and leader performance. From leading training initiatives and coaching individuals to managing projects and leveraging LMS and Microsoft tools for data-driven insights, your work will directly influence the employee experience and organizational success. Success in this role requires independence, adaptability, and a willingness to travel, along with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative team. Above all, you’ll model Empire’s core values—safety, teamwork, astonishment, integrity, respect, stewardship, and excellence—while bringing a proactive, solutions-focused mindset and passion for continuous improvement.

Requirements

Functional expertise and execution in assessment, evaluation, and training needs analysis.
Expertise in organization systems.
Knowledgeable in the Adult Learning Theory; conducts trend research for best practices.
Strong negotiation skills and project management experience.
Highly skilled at making clear and persuasive presentations. Builds credibility quickly with all levels of the organization.
Ability to work in and manage ambiguity and deal with issues or problems.
Ability to work independently, drive for results and stay focused to accomplish objectives with a sense of urgency.
Ability to think strategically and proficiently apply it.
Ability to be flexible, creative and grasp complex concepts and execute ideas.
Excellent written and spoken communication skills for all audiences.
Must have sufficient knowledge and understanding of business operations in a corporate environment to apply theory to practice in the business environment.
Must be able to meet all safety requirements for applicable safety policies and use of all required safety equipment.
Must have acceptable attendance to meet all company standards and requirements.
Bachelor’s degree in human resources management, organizational development, business administration or related field preferred; or equivalent years of experience specializing in Human Resources, Training or Organizational Development.
Minimum 10 years’ experience in a corporate learning function managing instructional design i.e., analysis, development, implementation and evaluation of learning and development programs; including experience in teaching people skills, leadership development and / or sales training courses.
Must be able to communicate (speak, read, comprehend, write) in English.

Nice To Haves

Bi-lingual in Spanish a plus.

Responsibilities

Research new training methods, materials and resources that will enhance the learning experience and provide value.
Develop and implement training methodologies that drive and support business initiatives, change management, culture design and culture transformation.
Develop and facilitate team workshops that support the business needs i.e., team performance, teambuilding, planning, decision making and organizational development.
Evaluate existing courses on an on-going basis, ensuring continuous improvement and business relevance.
Participate in Train the Trainer certifications to teach course content for various vendors such as Franklin Covey, DDI, Extended DISC as required. Incorporate Empire experiences and examples in the application of the course content.
Demonstrate advanced teaching skills, learner management, Q&A, time management to deliver packaged and Empire developed content.
Work collaboratively with HRBPs on coaching and performance improvement initiatives for employees, leaders and teams enhancing overall business performance.
Proficient in all aspects of the internal learning management system.
Create and edit webinar/video production. Write articles for internal communications related to the business needs.
Build relationships with the Empire workforce, Caterpillar and vendors to become a trusted partner in decision making and implementation.
Perform other duties/responsibilities as assigned.
Create an environment of ownership and personal accountability where each person is responsible and accountable for their performance.
Work safely at all times. Adhere to all applicable safety policies. Comply with all company policies, procedures and standards.
Travel to outlying locations on an as-needed basis.
At times may lead and direct the work of others.
Work within and promote corporate values.