Training & Development Specialist

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST The Training and Development Specialist is responsible for planning, designing, and facilitating job readiness and workforce development training. Develop programs to improve individual job skills. Analyze training needs and evaluate training effectiveness. Reports to the Director of Employment Training. ABOUT GROWING HOME Growing Home is a non‑profit urban farm and social enterprise in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago. We serve our communities through local, healthy food access and robust workforce development that has pathways to sustainable careers. Our 12‑week person‑centered paid employment training program includes real work experience with transferable skills, a robust classroom curriculum, and holistic case management and support – all in‑house. Our training program operates four cohorts over a calendar year. RESPONSIBILITIES Facilitate classroom training. Present information with a variety of instructional techniques or formats, such as group discussions, videos, team exercises, hands‑on examples, lectures, and other formats. Offer specific training programs to help participants improve and obtain job skills. Evaluate training materials such as self‑guided instructional manual, online applications, outlines, text, and handouts. Develop training materials. Obtain, organize or develop training procedure manuals, guides, or course materials, such as handouts or visual materials. Monitor and evaluate training activities for program effectiveness. Evaluate modes of training delivery, such as in‑person or virtual, to optimize training effectiveness. Assess training needs and outcomes through surveys, focus groups, or consultation with the manager and other trainers. Perform day‑to‑day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork, scheduling classes, setting up systems and equipment, and coordinating enrollment. Inspect equipment and materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects. Select and schedule outside instructors to conduct training. Schedule classes based on the availability of classrooms and instructors. Identify the developmental needs of participants, coaching, mentoring, and help to improve their knowledge and skills. Collaborate with other community partner organizations and businesses i.e., CARA Connect, Amazon, Accenture, colleges, universities, etc. Assist with referring trainees to employment and or training locations offering job placement assistance and/or training programs, Assist with job search and placement. Keep up with developments in your area of expertise. Attend meetings or seminars to obtain information for use in training programs. Assist with various special projects and other duties as assigned SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS Commitment to Growing Home’s mission and core values Experience in classroom facilitation, skills training, and/or curriculum development Familiarity with workforce preparation strategies, job search placement services, career, and vocational education, adult learning principles, and multiple population groups. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong organizational and time management skills, ability to lead projects, and problem‑solve Experience working directly with marginalized populations Strong computer skills, including using Microsoft Office (excel) and Google Docs Ability to work some evenings and weekends Some travel for meetings will be required. Must have an aptitude and willingness to navigate public transportation throughout the greater Chicago‑area, or a valid driver’s license The ability to work well under pressure in a fast‑paced environment Must be able to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment EDUCATION Bachelor’s degree in Business, Adult and Continuing Education, or a related field preferred. 2‑4 years exp. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Growing Home is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Growing Home does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, parental status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply. If you are a qualified candidate with a disability, please email us at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr