Job Title: Manufacturing Learning & Development Specialist
Job Summary
The Manufacturing Learning & Development Specialist is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing training programs that enhance employee skills, improve operational performance, and support continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment. This role partners with operations, quality, safety, and HR teams to ensure workforce capability aligns with business goals and compliance requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Training Program Development
-
Design, develop, and deliver training programs for manufacturing employees (e.g., onboarding, technical skills, leadership, safety, and compliance)
-
Create standardized training materials, including SOPs, job aids, e-learning modules, and assessments
-
Partner with subject matter experts (SMEs) to ensure training content is accurate and relevant
Workforce Capability & Skill Development
-
Conduct training needs analyses to identify skill gaps across manufacturing roles
-
Develop skill matrices and competency frameworks for production positions
-
Support cross-training and upskilling initiatives to increase workforce flexibility
Safety & Compliance Training
-
Ensure all training meets OSHA, regulatory, and company compliance standards
-
Coordinate and track mandatory training (e.g., safety procedures, quality standards, GMP)
-
Maintain training records and documentation for audits
Learning Delivery & Facilitation
-
Facilitate instructor-led training sessions, workshops, and hands-on learning
-
Support onboarding and orientation programs for new hires
-
Utilize blended learning methods (classroom, e-learning, on-the-job training)
Performance Improvement
-
Analyze training effectiveness using KPIs (e.g., productivity, quality, safety metrics)
-
Recommend improvements to processes based on training outcomes
-
Support continuous improvement initiatives such as Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen events
Learning Systems & Reporting
-
Manage the Learning Management System (LMS) and track employee progress
-
Generate reports on training completion, effectiveness, and compliance
-
Maintain accurate training records and documentation
Qualifications
Education
-
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Education, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Experience
-
5+ years of experience in Learning & Development, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment
-
Experience with training delivery, instructional design, and adult learning principles
-
Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies (preferred)
Skills & Competencies
-
Strong communication and facilitation skills
-
Ability to translate technical processes into effective training content
-
Knowledge of manufacturing operations, safety standards, and compliance requirements
-
Project management and organizational skills
-
Experience with LMS platforms and e-learning tools
-
Data-driven mindset with the ability to measure training effectiveness
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
-
Training completion rates and compliance metrics
-
Reduction in safety incidents
-
Improvements in productivity and quality
-
Time-to-competency for new hires
-
Employee skill progression and retention
Working Conditions
-
Primarily based in a manufacturing facility with exposure to production environments
-
May require flexible hours to support multiple shifts
-
Occasional travel for training or multi-site support
Preferred Certifications (Optional)
-
Certified Professional in Learning & Performance (CPLP / CPTD)
-
Six Sigma Green Belt or higher
-
OSHA or safety-related certifications
Career Progression
-
L&D Manager / Training Manager
-
Organizational Development Leader
-
Plant HR Manager or Operations Leadership roles