Training and Development Specialist

ESPEC North America Inc • Hudsonville, MI

2d • $72,200 - $89,900 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Training & Development Specialist is responsible for leading the organization’s training and development function, including the design, implementation, management, and evaluation of employee development programs that support organizational goals, workforce planning, talent management strategies, and operational excellence within a manufacturing environment. As a key member of the Human Resources team, this role partners closely with leadership, operations, quality, safety, and other cross-functional teams to assess training needs and ensure employees possess the technical, compliance, and leadership skills necessary to achieve production goals and broader business objectives. This position balances strategic ownership of the learning and development function with hands-on, tactical execution. The Specialist plays a critical role in enhancing workforce capability, supporting safety and regulatory compliance, improving performance, and fostering a culture of continuous learning across the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or related field required.
• 5+ years of experience in training and development, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience supporting safety and compliance training programs strongly preferred.
• Experience managing or leading a training function preferred.
• SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP (Preferred)
• PHR or SPHR (Preferred)
• ATD certification (CPTD) a plus
• Exhibits ability to learn and apply new skills; displays understanding of how job relates to others; uses resources effectively.
• Seeks feedback to improve performance; pursues training and development opportunities; strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; shares expertise with others.
• Identifies and resolves problems in timely manner; works well in group problem solving situations.
• Delivers engaging training programs and communicates clearly across all organizational levels.
• Takes full responsibility for the training and development function, ensuring measurable outcomes.
• Aligns training initiatives with long-term business goals and workforce planning strategies.
• Understands manufacturing operations, production goals, and organizational priorities to ensure development programs support operational success.
• Partners effectively with leadership and managers to recommend development strategies and drive adoption of training initiatives.
• Uses workforce data, KPIs, and performance metrics to assess training effectiveness and recommend improvements.
• Observes safety and security procedures; reports potentially unsafe conditions; uses equipment and materials properly.
• Exhibit tact and consideration; assist and support co-workers; work cooperatively in group situations.
• Exhibit good listening and comprehension; keep others adequately informed.
• Follow instructions and respond to management direction; take responsibility for own actions; complete tasks on time or notify appropriate person with an alternate plan.
• Give and welcome feedback; contribute to building a positive team spirit; put success of team above own interests; support everyone’s efforts to succeed.
• Meet productivity standards and complete work in a timely manner.
• Demonstrate accuracy and thoroughness; monitor work to ensure quality.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting safety and compliance training programs
• Experience managing or leading a training function
• SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP
• PHR or SPHR
• ATD certification (CPTD)

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute an annual training and development strategy aligned with business objectives and workforce planning initiatives.
• Establish training standards, frameworks, and metrics to ensure effectiveness and continuous improvement.
• Identify organizational skill gaps and implement scalable development solutions.
• Manage the learning management system (LMS) and overall training infrastructure.
• Design, develop, and deliver technical, safety, compliance, leadership, and professional development programs.
• Conduct training needs assessments through collaboration with managers and cross-functional leaders.
• Evaluate training effectiveness using assessments, feedback, and performance data.
• Maintain accurate training records to ensure compliance with company and regulatory requirements.
• Support onboarding programs to ensure successful new hire integration and productivity.
• Partner with managers to create individual development plans (IDPs).
• Contribute to succession planning and leadership development initiatives.
• Support performance management processes through coaching tools, development resources, and manager training.
• Coordinate and track required safety, regulatory, and policy training.
• Ensure alignment with OSHA, industry regulations, and internal compliance standards.
• Support audits and maintain documentation related to training compliance.
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
• Support employee engagement initiatives tied to retention and development.
• Facilitate learning initiatives that reinforce company values and organizational effectiveness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level