Professional Learning Training Specialist, Center-Based

communities. Our hard-working team runs on collaboration and mutual respect, for one another and for every student we serve.

What You Will Do:

The Professional Learning Training Specialist provides training and professional learning activities across Professional Learning teams within the McCormick Institute for Early Childhood. This key role within the Institute handles training logistics for various Leadership Academy trainings, both on-site and off-site while providing important support to learners as they engage in professional development activities. The Training Specialist works closely with the Manager of Center-Based Professional Learning and with the Professional Learning team to update, develop, and facilitate new and existing Leadership Academies and professional learning activities.

Essential Responsibilities:

Training Development and Facilitation

• Collaborate with the Manager of Center-Based Professional Learning and other team members to design, develop, and update training materials and curriculum for Leadership Academies
• Facilitate professional learning sessions, workshops, and training events (both in-person and virtual) as well as serve as coach when applicable
• Ensure content aligns with early childhood education best practices and adult learning principles

Training Logistics and Coordination

• Support recruitment and registration processes of Leadership Academy participants.
• Coordinate logistics for all training events, including scheduling, securing venues (on-site/off-site), materials preparation, shipping, and technology setup
• Ensure session materials arrive to training sites via UPS, personal vehicle, or other appropriate transportation.
• Manage communication with participants regarding session details, confirmations, and follow-ups.
• Manage the development and monitoring of registration systems
• Ensure sessions are well-organized and effectively executed

Learner Support and Engagement

• Provide ongoing support to training participants before, during, and after professional development sessions
• Evaluate and provide feedback to training participants on evidence of learning
• Assist learners with accessing materials, registration systems, and follow-up resources
• Collect and respond to learner feedback to improve training experiences

Collaboration and Team Support

• Work closely with other Professional Learning team members to align training initiatives across the Institute
• Participate in team meetings, planning sessions, and cross-functional projects
• Support internal collaboration to ensure consistency and quality in professional learning experiences

Data, Evaluation, and Reporting

• Conduct formal PAS/BAS and other assessments for academies as needed and generate participant feedback reports
• Assist in collecting data related to training attendance, required surveys, satisfaction, and outcomes
• Oversee the appropriate documentation and reporting for attendance, including certificates of attendance, NLU, and Gateways to Opportunity reporting
• Support the analysis of evaluation results and contribute to continuous improvement efforts
• Prepare reports or summaries for leadership and stakeholders as needed

Thought Leadership

• Stay informed on current trends, challenges, and emerging needs within the early childhood education and care (ECEC) workforce, with a focus on child care center leaders and administrators
• Represent the Institute through thought leadership, including delivering conference presentations, participating in professional committees or workgroups, and contributing to e-learning resources and published articles developed by the McCormick Institute for Early Childhood (MIEC)

Qualifications, Skills, and Responsibilities:

• Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Leadership, Curriculum and Instruction, Adult Learning Theory, or related field (Bachelor's Degree acceptable with significant, relevant experience - 10 years or more)
• Three plus (3+) years ECE Systems Knowledge or Policy Experience: Experience working with or within state/national early childhood systems (e.g., QRIS, Head Start, state-funded Pre-K programs). Familiarity with workforce development, leadership development, or quality improvement systems in ECE
• Three plus (3+) years experience speaking or training in culturally and linguistically diverse settings
• One plus (1+) year participation in professional networks or leadership cohorts in early childhood or adult education
• Attainment of one or more Gateways Credential(s) preferred
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred

Work environment/Physical Demands/Travel Requirements:

This is an in-person position located at the NLU Wheeling campus. This role requires frequent travel (fifty percent or more) of local, state, and/or national travel. Nights and weekends required on occasion. Long periods of sitting, standing, and constant computer/data entry work. Ability to lift 25-30 lbs. This position requires some availability during evenings and weekends and access to the Internet and phone when out of the office. Additionally, reliable transportation for this role is a requirement.