Sr. Specialist, Learning & Development - Manufacturing Technical Training

Job Title:

Sr. Specialist, Learning & Development - Manufacturing Technical Training

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Automation & Equipment Technical Expert to design, develop, and deliver technical training programs that enhance technical competency and operational performance for our maintenance, engineering, and production teams. This role ensures our teams have the skills to maximize equipment performance, minimize downtime, and drive continuous improvement with specialized knowledge of PLC programming, troubleshooting, and equipment automation systems. Partnering closely with Production, Quality, Safety, and Engineering to assess skill gaps and create structured training paths, the Senior Specialist plays a key role in workforce skill development, onboarding new team members, and sustaining a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Training Program Development & Delivery

• Design and deliver hands-on technical training for manufacturing employees, including machine operation, production processes, equipment setup, troubleshooting, and quality standards.
• Design, update, and deliver training modules on PLC programming, equipment automation, robotics, motion control, and HMI systems.
• Oversee simulation labs that mirror our electrode, cell assembly, and formation processes.
• Provide hands-on training using actual plant equipment
• Lead training for new hires, including safety orientation, equipment training, and introduction to production workflows.
• Maintain accurate training records, qualification matrices, and employee skill level documentation in the learning management system.

Technical Expertise & Support

• Serve as the in-house subject matter expert (SME) for PLC and automation systems.
• Teach teams to diagnose complex issues with conveyors, robotics, vision inspections systems and material handling automation.
• Evaluate skill gaps in equipment troubleshooting and automation operation; create targeted training plans.
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams to standardize best practices.
• Coach and mentor other trainers, on-the-job trainers (OJTs), and line leads on effective instruction techniques.

Continuous Improvement

• Assess training effectiveness through testing, observation, and performance metrics.
• Incorporate lessons learned from equipment failures, upgrades, and new technology introductions.
• Stay up to date with the latest in PLC and automation technology.

Safety & Compliance

• Integrate safety protocols and lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures into all training content.
• Collaborate with Quality and Safety teams to ensure training reflects regulatory requirements and compliance standards.

Qualifications

Required:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Industrial Technology, Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field; or equivalent technical experience.
• 7+ years of hands-on experience with PLC programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance (strong preference for experience with Mitsubishi PLC).
• Proven experience delivering technical training in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong knowledge of industrial automation systems, sensors, actuators, drives, and control networks.
• Demonstrated experience with equipment operation, production workflows, or maintenance processes.
• Ability to work on and around industrial equipment, climb ladders, and lift up to 40 lbs.
• Willingness to work in manufacturing environments with noise, dust, and variable temperatures.

Preferred:

• Experience with SCADA, robotics, and industrial networking (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, etc.).
• Training certification (e.g., CPTD, ATD, or equivalent).
• Experience developing e-learning modules or blended training approaches.
• Experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement practices.

Key Competencies

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment, and shop-floor safety.
• Ability to break down complex technical concepts into practical, hands-on learning steps.
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills with diverse learner groups.
• Proficient with training development tools and digital learning platforms (LMS experience required).
• Ability to read and interpret SOPs, schematics, work instructions, and quality specifications.
• Capable of working with others on the production floor as needed.
• Technical Mastery – Deep understanding of PLCs, control systems, and automation technologies.
• Instructional Design – Ability to translate complex technical concepts into engaging, hands-on learning.
• Problem Solving – Skilled at diagnosing and resolving automation issues.
• Collaboration – Works closely with engineering, production, and safety teams.
• Adaptability – Adjusts training for different learning styles and technical skill levels.