SUMMARY: The Learning and Development function at Whitsons is a key enabler of our business objectives. Integrating with the business, and implementing best-in-class practices, the LD team creates relevant, high-quality learning and development initiatives to drive high performing teams. As a member of the L&D team, the Learning Specialist position is directly responsible for developing L&D initiatives for internal team members that help achieve Whitsons’ strategic business objectives. It is a broad role with particular individual specialisms but also the ability to contribute to the wider L&D function. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: * Consult with subject matter experts, content owners, as well as other team members to assess needs and determine learning and development solutions utilizing adult learning principles and best practices. * Design, develop, implement and maintain medium to large scale L&D initiatives to address business challenges integrating learning technologies (online, mobile, blended, virtual, and distance learning). * Ensure L&D programs are consistent with the company’s vision and mission, are following legal requirements and promote positive employee relations and engagement. * Produce L&D materials in a variety of formats including print, graphics, audio, video, and multimedia. * Deliver in-person, virtual learning, elearning. * Provide direction, leadership, and project management for new and existing L&D initiatives. * Evaluate the effectiveness of L&D initiatives and recommend modifications. * Coordinate various logistical details essential for training including schedules, instructors, courseware, and equipment setup. * Serve as the learning management system (LMS) administrator. * Conduct and/or arrange for ongoing training and personal development classes for team members. * Perform other incidental and/or related duties as required and/or assigned. Salary range - $55-65k annually REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES: Education: * A Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science Degree is required in Education, Human Resources, education or equivalent experience in a related field. Certifications: * PHR or SPHR certification or the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) (or equivalent) preferred. Computer Skills: * Must have thorough and deep knowledge of Microsoft Office products (in particular Word, PowerPoint and Excel). Other Qualifications, Experience and Competencies: * Minimum three - five (3-5) years of experience working in talent development or training. * Fluency in Spanish preferred. * Experience with administration of learning management systems preferred. * Knowledge of the food service industry and child nutrition programs a plus. * Experience with instructional design methodology and adult learning principles. * Experience with eLearning course authoring tools, such as Articulate Storyline, Alchemy, and Captivate. * Experience with photo and graphics editing tools, such as Photoshop and Illustrator. * Ability to effectively facilitate content to multiple audience levels. * Successful applicants will demonstrate the following competencies: * Communication: Excellent interpersonal abilities, good listening skills, writing and verbal skills, ability to be discreet and maintain confidentiality of sensitive private data. * Decision-Making: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, takes initiative, drives for results, ability to prioritize work, communicate problems and propose solutions, as appropriate; sound, mature judgment, and integrity. * Execution: Sense of urgency and responsibility, meets deadlines; action-oriented and entrepreneurial, flexible work style; ability to multi-task and work under pressure, detail oriented * Partnership and Relationship Building: Internal and/or external ambassador, intercultural appreciation, interpersonal abilities, adaptable and flexible; self-motivated, ability to motivate others, can work independently as well as in teams * Strategic Ability: Anticipates future opportunities and consequences, demonstrates innovative approach to work, ability to organize chaos into coherent plan PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE JOB: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the team member is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, talk and hear; use hands and fingers to feel, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Position requires travel to multiple work sites, some out-of-town. Must be able to drive his/her own vehicle to other work sites and use his/her own smart phone. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work is performed primarily in an office setting. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work and duties that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position, and the Company reserves the right to add additional duties or modify existing duties. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the Company and employee and is subject to change by the Company as the needs of the Company and requirements of the job change. Employee’s signature below constitutes employee's understanding of the requirements, essential functions and duties of the position. Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled