Training & Development Specialist

General Description Under the direction of the Training & Development Director and within federal, state, and local guidelines, the Training Specialist assists with planning, organizing, and conducting educational training programs. The role is responsible for facilitating the New Employee Orientation (NEO) and various learning initiatives. Training sessions may be conducted in person or through virtual platforms, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for all participants. This position operates under moderate supervision, with some latitude to apply initiative and independent judgment in tailoring training methods to meet staff and organizational needs effectively. Education and Experience High school diploma or equivalent required. A minimum of one (1) year’s experience in training or facilitation is required. Registration, Certification, Licensure and Other Qualifications Must have and maintain a background and criminal history free from any disqualifying offenses as outlined by the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and automobile insurance. Individuals with an out‑of‑state driver’s license must obtain a Texas driver’s license within thirty (30) days. Successful completion of all position‑specific training within thirty (30) days of employment and ongoing compliance with annual training requirements is required. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Familiarity with trauma‑informed care principles and practices. Knowledge of state and federal regulations, including TAC and HHSC. Understanding of adult learning principles and instructional design; ability to adapt training approaches to diverse learning styles and experience levels. Awareness of cultural competency and diversity in behavioral health settings. Strong facilitation and presentation skills, engaging audiences in both in‑person and virtual settings. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for creating and delivering training materials. Strong organizational and time‑management skills, managing multiple training schedules and priorities. Proficiency in technology for training delivery (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams, learning management systems). Ability to display regular and reliable in‑person attendance. Understanding and practice of trauma‑informed care principles. Essential Duties The following list outlines key responsibilities for the position; however, it is not exhaustive and does not encompass all responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned as needed. New Employee Orientation Coordinate, organize, and facilitate all New Employee Orientation (NEO) sessions for newly hired employees. Present organizational information in a professional, engaging, and understandable manner to employees with varying backgrounds and experience levels. Deliver training on organizational mission, values, culture, policies, procedures, compliance standards, safety practices, and required onboarding topics. Facilitate both in‑person and virtual training sessions utilizing presentation software, learning management systems, and video conferencing platforms. Ensure all required onboarding trainings are completed within established timelines and in accordance with organizational, regulatory, and accreditation requirements. Maintain a welcoming and professional environment that promotes employee engagement, inclusion, and retention during onboarding. Respond to employee questions regarding orientation content, onboarding processes, organizational expectations, and available resources. Adapt training delivery methods to meet the needs of diverse learning styles and varying group sizes. Clerical Perform administrative work in support of Learning & Development programs such as training requirements, credentialing, delinquency monitoring, employee transfers, staff onboarding, or staff development. Implement all HR and Learning & Development policies and procedures. Maintain the Record of Class Roster and notify L&D Manager of any discrepancies. Assist and verify completed training certificates are uploaded correctly in the LMS (Relias). Maintain and support the LMS function that automates 30‑day training reminders. Collaborate on the bi‑monthly HRD training calendar. Coordinate and open all classes in the training system. Reset passwords and assist staff with accessing and utilizing the training system. Return all emails and voicemails within one (1) business day or escalated as appropriate. Provide backup for the clerical duties of the Training & Development Coordinator. Provide courteous, professional services at all times, and review opportunities for cost‑saving initiatives to present to management. Consultation and Support Provide one‑on‑one or team coaching to staff who need additional support or training to ensure competency. Assess training outcomes through feedback, testing, and real‑world application, and make improvements to curricula as needed. Work with the Center’s Quality & Utilization Management team to track incidents, identify trends, and inform future training needs. Manage and support the Center’s Learning Management System (LMS). Participates in the Center's Zero Suicide Initiative Support individuals experiencing a crisis by promptly connecting them with appropriate Center programs such as the Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT), Psychiatric Triage, Crisis Prevention services, and/or other applicable resources to facilitate timely intervention. Remain with individuals, when deemed safe, to provide support, maintain a calm environment until specialized crisis staff or emergency personnel take over. Adhere to safety protocols to prevent escalation of the crisis situation. Participate in debriefing sessions with the immediate supervisor or designated staff following a crisis event, collaborating to review the incident, identify lessons learned, and ensure all HHSC guidelines and Center policies are followed. #J-18808-Ljbffr