Training Specialist

This position supports the Comparative Medicine Program and plays a key role in providing training and operational support to all animal users within the Houston Methodist Research Institute. The role is responsible for delivering exceptional care, ensuring compliance with Comparative Medicine Program Standard Operating Procedures, and supporting high‑quality, compliant research through effective education and hands‑on training.Training support spans a wide range of skill levels and species, including introductory rodent handling and husbandry, technical animal procedures, and surgical support for USDA‑regulated species. Through consistent education, oversight, and collaboration, this position promotes animal welfare, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of high‑quality research support and veterinary care.AALAS certification is highly preferred, and a minimum of three years of training experience in an animal‑based research or veterinary setting is required.At Houston Methodist, the Training Specialist is responsible for implementing and delivering orientation programs, training programs, and competency development programs to employees throughout the Houston Methodist system in a variety of formats including in-person and virtual. The Training Specialist should create an engaging learning environment in both classroom and virtual environments. Other responsibilities include coordinating training schedules, assisting in training needs assessments and the identification of knowledge gaps, and assisting with the generation and reporting of training metrics in support of operations.
FLSA STATUSExemptQUALIFICATIONSEDUCATION Bachelor’s degree in training, communication, education, healthcare, industrial-organizational (I/O) psychology, instructional design, or related field EXPERIENCE Three years of experience in a training support, instructional design, or training role Healthcare experience preferred LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONSPreferred Vendor certification in facilitation and assessment tools preferred SKILLS AND ABILITIESDemonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles Ability to multi-task and flexibility to meet the requirements of the department and the organization Proficient in PowerPoint, Excel, and other presentation software Ability to problem solve in the moment and provide recommendations in alignment with values Excellent customer service and professional communication skills with the ability to remain calm in stressful situations Proficient computer skills and ability to learn and navigate multiple software programs, Learning Management Systems, and presentation and meeting software (e.g., WebEx and Adobe Connect) Understanding of learning theories and instructional delivery practices in multiple formats Proficient facilitation and presentation skills ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSPEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSImplements and delivers internally and vendor-developed orientation programs, training programs, and competency development programs to employees throughout the Houston Methodist system in variety of formats including in-person and virtual. Maintains strong interpersonal relationships with stakeholders and customers. Assists with research and development of program materials; adheres to all intellectual property requirements, avoiding plagiarism, and ensures proper citations in all materials. Assists team members and customers in needs assessment and the identification of knowledge gaps. Develops and implements new learning options utilizing current curriculum development principles and learning theories such as simulations, self-study courses, storyboards, scripting, etc. for the organization. SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSAssists in the evaluation of internally developed and/or vendor-based learning content and determines plans for utilization of content, marketing, roll out, and ongoing evaluation of vendor materials. Provides assistance in coordination and execution of various initiatives which support the department and Houston Methodist entities. Coordinates training schedules. Ensures all participants have correct program information, ensures that materials are available, equipment is working and rosters are maintained. Tracks and monitors attendance and course evaluations for individual classes and over time. Creates communications and supports marketing activities within the department including newsletters, SharePoint, website, flyers, and other tools. May participate in work groups and committees across the system to support broader Houston Methodist objectives and goals. Adds value to various work groups and councils as education advocates and conduits for the dissemination of information. QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSAssists in data gathering, analysis, and reporting of metrics as needed for operations. Assists in the development of evaluation strategies and ensures that course and learning evaluations are completed by program participants. Reviews data to identify opportunities for improvement. FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSDetermines the need for materials, equipment, and supplies necessary for program activities. Orders or procures necessary items within budgetary limitations and assists with monitoring training program expenditures. GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSGenerates and communicates new ideas and suggestions that improve quality of service. Demonstrates adaptability and flexibility in the face of changing demands. SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTSWORK ATTIREUniform: No Scrubs: No Business professional: Yes Other (department approved): No ON-CALL**Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.On Call* No TRAVEL****Travel specifications may vary by department**May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area Yes May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No

QUALIFICATIONSEDUCATION Bachelor’s degree in training, communication, education, healthcare, industrial-organizational (I/O) psychology, instructional design, or related field EXPERIENCE Three years of experience in a training support, instructional design, or training role
Healthcare experience preferred LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONSPreferred Vendor certification in facilitation and assessment tools preferred