ITS Training & Communications Specialist

The role of the ITS (Information & Technology Systems) Training & Communications Specialist encompasses the design, development, and delivery of training programs aimed at enriching the technical skills and knowledge of Thresholds employees. In addition to training, this role oversees the Information Technology System (ITS) department's communications and delivers thoughtful, timely, and insightful messages to a variety of audiences using multiple channels of communication. This position holds a pivotal responsibility in guaranteeing that our workforce possesses the essential skills to proficiently leverage technology and remain current with the latest industry trends. This role demands a well-balanced combination of technical expertise, training proficiency, and outstanding communication skills to engage with all agency staff. The IT Training & Communications Specialist reports to the Senior Director, Information Technology Systems.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
* Designs and develops comprehensive training programs and materials to meet the organization's Information Technology training needs.
* Delivers training sessions, workshops, and seminars on various IT topics to employees at various levels within the organization.
* Conducts training needs assessments to identify skill gaps and develop appropriate training solutions.
* Evaluates the effectiveness of training programs through assessments, feedback, and performance metrics to ensure continuous improvement.
* Collaborates with the Workforce Development team to implement ITS training programs for all Thresholds staff, including the facilitation of New Staff Orientation.
* Develops and maintains training documentation, manuals, and online resources for easy reference and self-guided learning.
* Applies diverse educational methods to engage trainees (e.g., gamification-based platforms, 1:1 training, video)
* Stays informed about new software releases, updates, and advancements to effectively incorporate them into training programs.
* Thoroughly monitors and records all internal and external training activities.
* Assists with Projects of varying scope.
* Assists with developing communications strategies.
* Responsible for creating, organizing, maintaining, and suggesting communications content that meets purpose and audience and delivered using various channels such as the company intranet, email, group presentations and other platforms.
* Collaborates with Thresholds' Marketing and Communications team, internal and external partners and communicates relevant information to department leadership.
* Oversees scheduling of communications. Generate periodic reports including the following KPIs: Attendance rate, completion rate, attendance diversity, and feedback and assessment scores.
* Other duties as assigned.

MARGINAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
* May be required to work a flexible schedule.
* This use of a personal vehicle may be required

EDUCATION:
* Bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college preferred. May substitute relevant experience.

EXPERIENCE:
* Minimum of two (2 years of proven work experience as an IT Trainer, Technical Trainer, or similar role.
* Experience working in an IT Help Center and basic understanding of IT services preferred.
* Experience designing technical course material.
* Familiarity with web-based learning platforms and modern educational techniques
* Good understanding of corporate computer security principles
* Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain technical terms plainly.
* Experience creating written, digital, verbal employee facing content.

SKILLS/CERTIFICATIONS
Ability to travel to multiple locations throughout Cook, Kankakee, McHenry, and Lake counties up to 20% of the time.
* Certified Technical Trainer certification a plus
* Advanced knowledge of desktop applications including:
* Microsoft Office Suite (365)
* TEAMS
* SharePoint

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive Pay: $60,000.00 - $75,000.00 Annual Salary
• Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation)
• Dental insurance, vision insurance,choice of 4 medical insurance plans
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
• Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
• Public service loan forgiveness

#LI-SM1