Technical Training Specialist

Heartland Food Products Group is a dynamic, fast-growing organization committed to making a positive impact in the world. We are passionate about building brands and foster a results-driven culture that provides opportunities to rapidly learn and develop your career. Heartland Food Products Group makes SPLENDA® Brand Sweeteners, as well as JAVA HOUSE® Cold Brew Coffee and other product lines. SPLENDA® is the #1 recommended sweetener brand among healthcare professionals and includes a broad portfolio — the iconic original SPLENDA® product line, SPLENDA® Diabetes Care Shakes, SPLENDA® Stevia, SPLENDA® Zero liquid, SPLENDA® Monk Fruit, and SPLENDA® Allulose.

The Technical Training Specialist is responsible for the planning, design, development, and implementation of Heartland FPG training programs and initiatives, with a focus on engineering and technology. The Technical Training Specialist is a key developmental position focused on building a hands-on technical understanding of equipment operation, process control, and Heartland ways of working.  The Technical Training Specialist collaborates with business partners and subject matter experts to develop and deliver tailored curriculum and program offerings that will improve organizational performance and support the professional growth and development of team members.  

Essential Duties and Key Responsibilities: 

• Collaborates with subject matter experts and others to determine critical training needs. 
• Monitors, evaluates or records training activities and metrics. 
• Offers specific training programs to help maintain or improve job skills. 
• Supports in the development of training materials. 
• Provides insight into developing training through an engineering and technology lens. 
• Supports SME development for technical positions. 
• Assesses training needs through surveys, interviews with employees, focus groups, or consultation with managers, instructors, or customer representatives. 
• Analyze existing and potential content, focusing on reuse and single-sourcing opportunities. 
• Provides administrative support with regards to learning & development operations, new hire orientation, in addition to meeting coordination, and plant operations. 
• Iterates upon training development methodology. 
• Organizes and develops or obtains, training procedure manuals and guides and course materials such as handouts and visual materials. 
• Presents information using a variety of instructional techniques or formats, such as role-playing, simulations, team exercises, group discussions, videos, or lectures. 
• Evaluates training materials such as outlines, text, or videos. 
• Designs, plans, organizes, and directs professional development or technical training for employees. 
• Exhibits sound fiscal responsibility in the handling and sourcing of training courses, materials, equipment, etc.  
• Creates e-learning content and manage course assignments and completions in the Learning Management System including training records required for SQF and other audits. 
• Provide feedback on the training/certification program of manufacturing personnel.  
• Participate in troubleshooting and solving problems with existing equipment/processes/products.  
• Make recommendations and implement improvements in quality.  
• Develop a strong technical understanding of mechanical equipment used in a manufacturing environment (drives, motors, sensors, pumps, valves, etc.).   
• Assist in development and improvement of Standard Operating Procedures for all processes.  
• Understand process and process equipment specifications, processing methods and procedures that are critical to line performance.  
• Provide technical expertise and support related to manufacturing.  
• All other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications: 

• B.S./B.A. Degree or higher in a technical discipline Engineering, science, etc. with 3-5 years previous training experience 
• Must work well in a team environment and have strong communication skills 
• Must have the ability to work extended hours while standing  
• Prior technical experience working in a manufacturing facility is preferred 
• Experience working with equipment installation and automation is a plus   
• Strong ability to coach, lead and direct engineering and maintenance staff  
• Previous experience in conducting training, leading training courses, or designing training is required 

Physical Demands:  

• Must be able to physically perform the functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions  
• Must be able to work seated using a computer and phone for long periods of time. 
• Must be able to work extended hours, such as daily overtime and an occasional weekend  
• Must possess visual acuity to document company records  
• Continuous walking throughout plant and distribution center. 
• Lifting up to 40 pounds