Training Specialist

Position
The Training Specialist is an essential member of our Workforce Development program at the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan (Hispanic Center). The primary responsibilities include providing instructional courses for the Community Interpreter® Training and Plaza Comunitaria. The Training Specialist will function within internal and external teams to deliver seamless services to participants and to ensure that positive relationships are maintained resulting in optimum development and job preparedness of participants.
 
Responsibilities

• In collaboration with Director of Talent Development, develop and design training materials, modules, and curriculum based on organizational needs and learning objectives.
• Recruit participants for training and developmental opportunities and engage employers to build partnerships and increase opportunities.
• Work collaboratively within the Workforce Development Department and other departments to ensure holistic approach.
• Conduct engaging and interactive training sessions for participants using a variety of instructional techniques to accommodate different learning styles for the Community Interpreter® Training.
• Coordinate the Plaza Comunitaria to provide primary and secondary education to students in Spanish, conducting and supervising small-groups sessions with students.
• Conduct follow-ups throughout training sessions to engage and retain students.
• Utilize various assessments and tools to receive feedback for continuous improvement.
• Tailor training content and delivery to meet the needs of diverse audiences, considering varying skill levels and backgrounds.
• Assess participant understanding and progress during training sessions, providing feedback and clarification as needed.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and new training methodologies to enhance program quality.
• Maintain records of training sessions, attendance, and participant performance in HCWM database, Salesforce, and various grant databases.
• Offer additional support or resources to participants who may need extra assistance.
• Regularly assess and update training materials and methodologies to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
• Maintain excellent communication and relationship with partner organizations such as the Mexican Consulate, Cross-Cultural Communications, and school administration as it relates to the training programs.
• Conduct one-on-one career development coaching aligned with program requirements, current labor market demands, and individual participant needs, providing accountability, positive reinforcement, and guidance tailored to participants’ goals.
• Interview and assess participants to identify career objectives aligned with their abilities and develop individualized strategies to overcome employment barriers.
• Assist participants with job applications, resume building, interview preparation, and technical support.
• Refer participants to other HCWM staff and external trusted community agencies for additional support and services, including housing stability, training, employment assistance, and other social determinants of health.
• Participate in community outreach events and implement innovative activities to raise awareness of services.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Associate’s degree in human service or related field from an accredited institution or equivalent employment experience.
• Demonstrate ability to communicate in both verbal and written formats to meet position responsibilities. (Must be Bilingual in Spanish both oral and written).
• Ability to work with diverse populations and individuals with socioeconomic challenges.
• Demonstrate knowledge of current employment practices and opportunities.
• Proficiency of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Preferred minimum 2 years’ experience in Human Services, Human Resources or Workforce Development.
• Preferred 2 years work experience with individuals with socioeconomic disadvantages.