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What does a training specialist do?

Training specialists design, develop and deliver training programs to enhance employee skills and organisational performance. They identify training needs, create learning materials and facilitate training sessions to support employee growth and company success.

The primary role of training specialists involves assessing training requirements, designing curriculum and delivering training sessions using various methodologies. They play a critical role in fostering a culture of learning and development, which is essential for organisational growth and innovation.

In India’s competitive corporate landscape, where skilled talent is a key differentiator, training specialists help employees acquire new skills and harbour talent development. They also contribute to employee engagement, retention and overall effectiveness.

Depending on the specific responsibilities, the roles of training specialists may overlap with training managers. However, the main difference is that while the former focuses on developing training programs, the latter oversees its successful execution and implementation in the firm.

Job description: Template

We are looking for a dedicated training specialist to join our team at [Company X].

You will be crucial in identifying training needs, designing curriculum and delivering engaging training sessions to enhance employee skills and performance. The ideal candidate is a dynamic, experienced professional passionate about employee development and training. You also have a proven track record in designing and delivering effective training programs.

We invite individuals with solid instructional design skills and a commitment to employee development to apply for this role. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth and comprehensive employee benefits.

Objectives of the role

  • Assessing training needs and developing comprehensive training plans to address skill gaps and support organisational goals.
  • Designing, developing and delivering training programs using various instructional techniques and formats, including classroom training, e-learning and workshops.
  • Collaborating with subject matter experts, trainers and stakeholders to ensure training content is accurate, relevant and engaging.
  • Evaluating training effectiveness through assessments, surveys and feedback to measure learning outcomes and make continuous improvements.
  • Providing coaching and support to trainers, facilitators and participants to ensure successful implementation of training programs.
  • Managing training logistics, including scheduling, facilities, materials and resources.

Your tasks

  • Conduct needs assessments and skills gap analyses to identify training priorities and opportunities in the firm.
  • Develop training materials, presentations and resources to support learning objectives and outcomes.
  • Facilitate training sessions and workshops, ensuring participants a positive and interactive learning experience.
  • Monitor and evaluate training delivery and effectiveness, making adjustments to improve outcomes.
  • Provide one-on-one coaching and support to employees to reinforce learning and development.
  • Collaborate with HR and department managers to align training initiatives with organisational goals and objectives.
  • Track and report on training metrics and KPIs to measure the impact and ROI of training programs.
  • Stay updated on industry trends, best practices and emerging technologies in training and development.

Required skills and qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Education, Training, Human Resources or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience as a training specialist or a similar role in corporate training and development.
  • Strong knowledge of instructional design principles, adult learning theory and training methodologies.
  • Knowledge of instructional design software and multimedia tools for content creation.
  • Familiarity with competency-based training and performance management.
  • Excellent presentation and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage and motivate learners.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively and establish credibility with diverse groups of people.
  • Strong organisational and project management skills.

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Advanced degree in Training and Development, Organisational Psychology or similar.
  • Certification in training and development (e.g. CPTD, CPLP, ATD Master Trainer).
  • Experience with learning management systems (LMS) and e-learning authoring tools.
  • Project management skills for managing training initiatives and timelines.
  • Multilingual proficiency for delivering training to diverse employee populations.
  • Knowledge of current trends in training and development.
  • Familiarity with the Indian labour laws and corporate culture.