Learning and Development Specialist

Description

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Alco Learning and Development Specialist will play a pivotal role in the development and delivery of high-impact training initiatives that foster operational excellence, affordable housing compliance, and technological adoption across the organization. This role will split responsibilities equally between instructional design and training facilitation, ensuring that ALCO Management’s workforce is equipped with the knowledge and skills to excel in their roles and contribute to the mission of providing quality affordable homes and quality jobs for the long term.

In this dynamic position, the specialist will design and create e-learning content, in-person training sessions, and webinars, while also facilitating interactive, engaging training sessions for staff at all levels. The ideal candidate will combine expertise in instructional design, adult learning principles, and facilitation with a passion for empowering individuals and teams to achieve success. This position is essential in supporting the growth and development of ALCO employees across the affordable housing and property management sectors.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION

• Instructional Design (40%)
  • Develop and design engaging, high-quality e-learning courses, training modules, and job aids focused on operational procedures, compliance, and industry best practices.
  • Collaborate with key stakeholders to identify training needs and develop tailored programs that address organizational goals and enhance employee performance.
  • Use data and learner feedback to continuously improve the instructional design process, ensuring training materials are up-to-date and engaging for diverse learning styles.
  • Utilize learning technologies (e.g., Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate) to create interactive learning experiences that are both scalable and effective.

• Training Facilitation (40%)
  • Facilitate both in-person and virtual training sessions that are dynamic, interactive, and tailored to the needs of diverse adult learners.
  • Engage learners through various instructional techniques, including scenario-based learning, gamification, and collaborative activities.
  • Lead live webinars and in-person training on a variety of topics, including affordable housing compliance, technology adoption, and operational excellence.
  • Foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment where employees feel empowered to apply new knowledge and improve their performance.
• Program Management & Collaboration (10%)
  • Collaborate with department leaders and stakeholders to ensure training programs align with the organization’s goals and objectives.
  • Maintain accurate records of training sessions, participant progress, and program effectiveness.
  • Ensure that training content remains relevant, up-to-date, and compliant with industry regulations and best practices.
• Continuous Improvement & Innovation (10%)
  • Stay informed about the latest trends in learning and development, adult education, and the affordable housing industry.
  • Identify and implement innovative training solutions that enhance employee engagement and knowledge retention.
  • Gather feedback and performance data from training sessions to refine training materials and delivery methods.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Strong proficiency with learning management systems (LMS), instructional design principles and experience with e-Learning development tools (e.g., Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate).
• Excellent training facilitation skills, with the ability to engage and motivate learners in both virtual and in-person settings.
• In-depth knowledge of adult learning theory and best practices in the field of training and development.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build relationships with learners at all levels.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to adapt to shifting priorities and challenges.
• Knowledge of the affordable housing industry and regulatory compliance is a plus but not required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Communications, Human Services, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in training facilitation or instructional design, preferably with adult learners.
• Experience creating e-Learning content and conducting virtual and in person training sessions, adapting training materials and methods to diverse learning styles and needs.

• Demonstrated success in implementing innovative training solutions and using technology to enhance learning experiences and outcomes (e.g., gamification, mobile learning, virtual reality simulations).

• Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet training and organizational needs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position is based in Memphis, TN, and will require some travel (15%) to local properties and training sites.
• The work environment is primarily office-based with occasional onsite training sessions.
• Hybrid office setting; three M-W in office, Th-F flexible.

Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Communications, Human Services, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in training facilitation or instructional design, preferably with adult learners.
• Experience creating e-Learning content and conducting virtual and in person training sessions, adapting training materials and methods to diverse learning styles and needs.

• Demonstrated success in implementing innovative training solutions and using technology to enhance learning experiences and outcomes (e.g., gamification, mobile learning, virtual reality simulations).

• Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet training and organizational needs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position is based in Memphis, TN, and will require some travel (15%) to local properties and training sites.
• The work environment is primarily office-based with occasional onsite training sessions.
• Hybrid office setting; three M-W in office, Th-F flexible.

INTERNAL & EXTERNAL RELATIONSHIPS

Internally, the Learning and Development Specialist will regularly work with Community Managers, Assistant Community Managers, Regional Property Managers, Maintenance Technicians, and Central Office staff, and will be a part of the Learning & Development Team, reporting to the Director of Learning and Development.

Externally, the Learning and Development Specialist may work with professional and peer groups, as well as software providers and industry experts.

CHALLENGES

• Managing the training needs of a workforce with varying levels of education, experience, and expertise.
• Staying current with regulatory changes and industry trends to ensure that training content remains up-to-date and compliant.
• Continuously finding innovative ways to make complex compliance and operational concepts engaging and easy to apply for learners in both virtual and in-person formats.

• Balancing multiple competing priorities, including evolving compliance requirements, technology updates, and the ongoing need for employee skills development.

Participation on the Talent Team includes commitment to the Talent Team Cultural Commitments of integrity, curiosity, & growth, and to Alco’s Core Values.