Training and development specialists provide specific training programs to help employees maintain or improve job skills. They evaluate training needs with surveys, focus groups, interviews with employees or consultation with customer representatives, managers or instructors. Training and development specialists organize and develop training manuals, guides and course materials such as handouts and visual materials.
Training and development specialists may also present information using different instructional techniques and formats including role playing, team exercises, simulations, group discussions, videos and lectures. Reviewing training materials prepared by instructors, such as text, outlines and handouts can be an important part of their job as well.
Summary
- Training and development specialists identify the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
- Candidates must possess good communication skills with supervisors, peers and subordinates.
- Most training and development specialists need a four-year bachelor’s degree, but some positions do not require a degree.
- It is important that training and development specialists foster constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Work Environment for Training and Development Specialists
Training and development specialists work on computers. They must have computer skills so that they can enter data or process information. They must demonstrate knowledge of their employer’s administrative and clerical procedures, and often have to understand systems such as word processing, stenography and transcription, managing files and records, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
Education, Training and Licensing
Many employers seek to hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree, but it is not necessary for all positions. Numerous universities and colleges offer bachelor’s degrees leading to training and development employment. A substantial amount of work-related skills, knowledge or experience is needed for employment in this occupation.
Other skills and abilities for this role include teaching, reading comprehension, active listening, monitoring, social perceptiveness, critical thinking, inductive reasoning and decision making.
Employment Figures, Projections, Outlook and Earnings
Training and development specialists held 205,020 jobs in May 2009, according to research published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). According to ONET, most worked as a corporate trainer, job training specialist, computer training specialist, management development specialist, training coordinator, training specialist, technical trainer or e-learning developer.
BLS reports indicate that median annual wage for salaried public relations specialists was $55,310 in May 2009. The middle 50% earned between $38,280 and $68,300. While the lowest 10% had an annual income at or below $30,120, the top 10% earned upwards of $85,860 per year.