Training Specialist bei GREATER CHICAGO FOOD DEPOSITORY

Training Specialist

The Training Specialist supports the development and delivery of training programs that promote safety, operational excellence, and employee growth at the Greater Chicago Food Depository. This role partners closely with Operations leadership, and the Safety Manager to ensure that all employees receive consistent, high-quality training aligned with GCFD standards and regulatory requirements.

The Training Specialist will design, coordinate, and facilitate training programs for warehouse operations, transportation, and material handling equipment, ensuring all employees are well-prepared to perform their work safely and effectively.

Key Responsibilities and Essential Functions

• Develop, coordinate, and deliver training programs for warehouse, facilities, transportation, and other operations staff.
• Support onboarding and ongoing training for all new recruits and current staff.
• Partner with supervisors and managers to identify training needs and skill gaps.
• Maintain accurate training documentation and certification records (e.g., OSHA, DOT, forklift/material handling).
• Collaborate with the Safety Manager to align training with organizational safety initiatives.
• Support the design of training materials—manuals, job aids, presentations, and videos—that are engaging, accessible, and effective.
• Evaluate training effectiveness through assessments, feedback, and observation, and adjust programs accordingly.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for material handling equipment and safe operating procedures.
• Support workforce development participants with skill-building and certification readiness.
• Assist in ensuring compliance with all applicable safety, environmental, and transportation regulations.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and coaching to designated trainers or peer mentors.
• Maintain records for accuracy and accessibility.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education, Training & Development, Occupational Safety, or related field preferred.
• At least 2 years of experience in training, operations, or safety within a warehouse, logistics, or food handling environment.
• Knowledge of operational, regulatory and food safety standards (HACCP, GMPs).
• Strong facilitation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to design engaging training content for diverse audiences.
• Experience using Learning Management Systems (LMS) or digital training tools preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• CDL or OSHA trainer certification a plus but not required.

Exposure

• Regularly works in a warehouse environment with exposure to varying temperatures, including refrigerated and freezer areas.
• Interact regularly with staff across departments, volunteers, and external partners.
• May occasionally work evenings or weekends to accommodate training schedules.
• The schedule for this role is onsite Monday - Friday 

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance coverage
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution
• Generous paid time off
• Parental leave
• On-site gym
• $3,000 annual employer-paid ThrivePass lifestyle and wellness benefit program
• $250 employee referral bonus