Training and Safety Specialist

"Target Zero" Training & Safety Specialist

Family-owned and operated since 1981, Shoppa's Material Handling is one of the fastest-growing and most successful material handling dealerships in the United States. As an authorized dealer of Toyota Material Handling - the world's best-selling forklift brand and a recognized leader in quality, durability, safety, and innovation - we proudly serve customers through nine locations across Texas and Kansas City, Missouri. We offer a comprehensive range of products, services, and integrated systems that help customers improve the storage and movement of their goods.

JOB SUMMARY:

The primary function of the "Target Zero Training and Safety Specialist is to develop, coordinate, and facilitate OSHA-compliant operator training programs for powered industrial trucks (PIT), Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), and other material handling equipment for both Shoppa's employees and customers. This position is responsible for conducting classroom and hands-on instruction, practical evaluations, operator certification, refresher training, train-the-trainer, and maintaining all related training documentation. This position represents Shoppa's Material Handling through professionalism, technical expertise, exceptional communication, and a commitment to safety while promoting safe and practical equipment operation and regulatory compliance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Deliver OSHA-compliant operator training for powered industrial trucks in accordance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178.
• Deliver operator training for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) in accordance with applicable ANSI A92 standards.
• Conduct classroom instruction, practical demonstrations, hands-on evaluations, and operator performance assessments.
• Evaluate operator competency and authorize operator certifications upon successful completion of required training.
• Conduct and maintain refresher training and re-evaluations following incidents, observed unsafe operation, equipment changes, or as required by company policy.
• Conduct train-the-trainer courses for internal and external customers.
• Maintain operator training records, certifications, attendance logs, and documentation within the company's Learning Management System (LMS).
• Coordinate training schedules with branch leadership, service departments, customers, and safety personnel.
• Assist with the development, revision, and continuous improvement of training materials, presentations, practical exercises, and operator evaluations.
• Travel to company branches and customer facilities to conduct operator training and evaluations.
• Promote safe operating practices and reinforce Shoppa's Target Zero safety culture.
• Assist customers in understanding OSHA operator training requirements and best practices for powered industrial truck and MEWP safety.
• Support Safety, Sales, Service, and Operations departments with equipment familiarization and operational guidance.
• Maintain training equipment, demonstration materials, and training aids in a safe and serviceable condition.
• Stay current on OSHA regulations, ANSI standards, manufacturer recommendations, and industry best practices.
• Attend manufacturer, Toyota Material Handling, and other professional development courses to maintain instructor qualifications and excel in promoting "Target Zero".
• Assist the Health, Safety & Environmental department with safety meetings, audits, incident investigations, and other safety initiatives as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
• Minimum high school diploma or GED required; Associate's degree or technical certification preferred.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience operating, servicing, or training on powered industrial trucks, aerial work platforms, construction equipment, or similar industrial equipment.
• Previous experience delivering instructor-led training or adult education preferred.
• Working knowledge of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178, applicable ANSI A92 standards, and material handling safety principles.
• Ability to effectively present technical information to employees and customers with varying levels of experience.
• Excellent verbal communication, presentation, coaching, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to coordinate multiple training events and maintain accurate documentation.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Learning Management Systems.
• Ability to travel extensively throughout Shoppa's service territory, including overnight travel as required.
• Valid driver's license with exceptional driving record.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Toyota Material Handling, OSHA, MEWP, and other required Train-the-Trainer certifications.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Frequently stand, walk, climb, bend, kneel, and demonstrate equipment operation.
• Ability to safely operate powered industrial trucks and MEWPs.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment and safely access customer facilities, warehouses, construction sites, and industrial environments.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position regularly works in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, customer job sites, and service shop environments where exposure to moving equipment, noise, dust, temperature extremes, and industrial hazards may occur. Frequent travel to branch locations and customer facilities is required.

Shoppa's Material Handling is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled/veterans"; (b) "EOE/Disability/Vets"; or (c) "Shoppa's provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability." (pp. 3 & 36 of the attached guide)