Training Manager
Golden State Foods
Opelika AL 36801 US
Description
Training Manager
Protein Business Unit
ABOUT GOLDEN STATE FOODS
Golden State Foods is a distinguished leader in the food service industry, offering an extensive array of products and services to a diverse clientele. Rooted in the values of quality service and integrity, we are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where employees can advance, innovate, and contribute to our ongoing success.
ABOUT THE JOB
The Training Manager is responsible for driving the development, execution, and continuous improvement of technical training and employee development programs. This role aligns workforce capability with the site's strategic goals and Integrated Work System (IWS) initiatives. The manager ensures employees are equipped with the technical skills and knowledge to meet performance standards, reduce skill-related losses, and foster a culture of operational excellence.
Essential Functions
Training Strategy & Leadership
- Develop and execute a comprehensive technical training strategy aligned with plant goals and the site master plan.
- Manage and mature training systems, processes, and digital tools, including Learning Management Systems (LMS), digital knowledge libraries, and automated solutions.
- Lead the development and deployment of technical curriculum, role-based learning paths, and skills matrices to support and develop high-performing work teams.
- Partner with plant leadership to assess capability gaps and ensure training aligns with safety, quality, and business objectives.
Program Design & Implementation
- Utilize instructional design and adult learning principles to create and deliver engaging training materials (SOPs, OPLs, videos, eLearning, etc.).
- Leverage digital platforms (SharePoint, Power BI, Alchemy, Docebo, AI-based tools, eLearning software) to enhance learning effectiveness and accessibility.
- Support the implementation and sustainment of the Continuous Learning (CL) Pillar methodology in alignment with IWS.
- Lead and coach trainers, cross-functional teams, and SMEs through the Train-the-Trainer program, ensuring consistent and effective knowledge transfer.
Onboarding & Employee Qualification
- Oversee onboarding and orientation processes for new hires and internal role transitions.
- Develop and maintain qualification assessment tools (step-up/learning cards) for each operational role.
- Partner with shift leaders and supervisors to ensure consistent qualification and readiness across teams.
Training Effectiveness & Metrics
- Define and monitor KPIs such as qualification rates, performance trends, and quality/safety outcomes.
- Adjust training strategies based on audits, feedback, and performance data.
- Prepare and distribute training reports regularly to stakeholders.
People Management & Collaboration
- Lead and develop a team of SMEs through coaching and performance management.
- Promote a collaborative learning culture across all departments.
- Ensure alignment between training and functions like HR, Quality, Maintenance, Operations, and Safety.
- Oversee training budgets and vendor relationships; pursue grants or external funding where applicable.
- Visibility and presence on off-shifts and weekends when necessary; 50/50 production floor to office ratio
Minimum Qualifications
Education/Certification:
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Engineering, Organizational Development, or related field required; STEM preferred.
Experience:
- 5+ years managing training programs in manufacturing or industrial environments; food preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of (B: Basic / J: Journey / E: Expert):
- Project management principles (E)
- Microsoft Office and standard digital workplace tools (J)
- LMS systems such as Alchemy, Docebo (J)
- Adult learning theory and competency frameworks (E)
- Lean/TPM/IWS methodologies (E)
- Facilitation of classroom and hands-on training (J)
- Communication, coaching, and cross-functional collaboration (E)
Skills and Abilities to:
- Think strategically and execute tactically
- Lead change and influence at all organizational levels
- Analyze data and solve complex problems
- Utilize digital training tools and performance-based learning systems
- Balance multiple priorities independently
- Motivate and lead teams in a fast-paced setting
- Write clear reports and training documents
- Deliver engaging presentations to stakeholders
- Travel by air and auto as required
- Demonstrate commitment to GSF’s Values and Creed
Leadership/Management Responsibility
Directly supervises Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and leads cross-functional training coordination.
Performance Categories
- Execute high-impact training aligned to KPI improvements
- Build and maintain internal trainer network
- Ensure compliance with training and certification standards
- Promote a plant-wide culture of learning and operational excellence
- Accuracy, timeliness, and depth of training delivery
- Return-to-work readiness and employee requalification
- Compliance with GMP, HACCP, OSHA
- Departmental and cross-functional collaboration
- Stakeholder and customer satisfaction
- Team development aligned with GSF’s goals
What You’ll Get
People First
At Golden State Foods, we're not just a company — we're a community that champions your personal growth and professional development.
Values Driven
Our core values guide every decision and interaction, fostering a culture grounded in integrity, excellence, and innovation.
People Development
We invest in your growth. From ongoing learning opportunities to leadership development, we’re committed to helping you succeed.
Philanthropy & Sustainability
We go beyond business by giving back to our communities and leading sustainability initiatives that make a global impact.
Extensive Benefits
Our benefits reflect our commitment to total well-being—offering comprehensive coverage and holistic support to help you thrive.