Training and Development Specialists

Training and Development Specialists typically perform the following tasks: • Present information with a variety of instructional techniques or formats, such as role playing, simulations, team exercises, group discussions, videos, or lectures. • Obtain, organize, or develop training procedure manuals, guides, or course materials, such as handouts or visual materials. • Evaluate modes of training delivery, such as in-person or virtual, to optimize training effectiveness, training costs, or environmental impacts. • Offer specific training programs to help workers maintain or improve job skills. • Assess training needs through surveys, interviews with employees, focus groups, or consultation with managers, instructors, or customer representatives. • Monitor, evaluate, or record training activities or program effectiveness. • Design, plan, organize, or direct orientation and training programs for employees or customers. • Develop alternative training methods if expected improvements are not seen. • Evaluate training materials prepared by instructors, such as outlines, text, or handouts. • Monitor training costs and prepare budget reports to justify expenditures. • Devise programs to develop executive potential among employees in lower-level positions. • Keep up with developments in area of expertise by reading current journals, books, or magazine articles. • Attend meetings or seminars to obtain information for use in training programs or to inform management of training program status. • Coordinate recruitment and placement of training program participants. • Select and assign instructors to conduct training. • Negotiate contracts with clients for desired training outcomes, fees, or expenses. • Supervise, evaluate, or refer instructors to skill development classes. • Schedule classes based on availability of classrooms, equipment, or instructors. • Refer trainees to employer relations representatives, to locations offering job placement assistance, or to appropriate social services agencies, if warranted. • Develop or implement training programs related to efficiency, recycling, or other issues with environmental impacts.