Vedder's Chicago Office is looking for a Training Specialist. The Training Specialist designs, develops, delivers, and evaluates technology and professional skills training across the Firm. The position supports new hire training, application implementations, technology adoption, continuing education, and role-specific workflow training. Working closely with Information Technology, Human Resources, and Firm stakeholders, the Training Specialist identifies learning needs, creates effective learning solutions, measures training outcomes, and promotes the secure, ethical, and efficient use of Firm technology. Reports to the Senior Learning and Development Manager.
As the Training Specialist, your duties will include, but not be limited to:- Designs, develops, delivers, maintains, and evaluates instructor-led, virtual, self-paced, and blended learning programs for new and existing Firm technologies
- Creates and maintains learning materials, including facilitator guides, participant guides, quick reference resources, job aids, videos, simulations, assessments, surveys, and eLearning modules
- Proactively reviews and updates training content following software releases, system enhancements, workflow changes, and user feedback
- Conducts orientation and detailed training programs for all new hires on Firm applications including, but not limited to, Microsoft 365 applications, legal software applications, AI tools, and document management software
- Routinely follows up with new hires to ascertain additional training needs; assesses individual's software skills and provides customized training as needed
- Incorporates engaging learning techniques and conducts instructor-led classroom, one-on-one, and virtual training sessions for new hires, new applications, updated workflows, Firm specialized classes, and overall refresher classes based on Firm needs
- Evaluates new applications and new versions of existing applications and determines applicability and usefulness in the Firm's environment; assists with developing end user application configurations
- Collaborates with information technology teams by participating in quality assurance testing for new systems, products and enhancements; records and reports results
- Analyzes attorney and nonlegal staff technology needs and discusses application of appropriate technologies to meet these needs
- Evaluates new hire training, workshops, webinars, and seminars, and suggests adjustments according to changing technology and business needs
- Coordinates with vendors, consultants, and external training providers regarding course content, demonstrations, learning resources, and implementation activities
- Reviews vendor-provided training materials and adapts them to Firm workflows, terminology, policies, and user needs
- Develops project plans, maintains project task lists, and proactively communicates project updates with project teams
- Creates eLearning modules and training videos using a software suite (i.e. Camtasia, Articulate, or similar)
- Maintains the Firm's learning management system (LMS), including tracking training attendance, managing learner records, updating course content, and ensuring training materials remain accurate and current
- Maintains training rooms, training equipment, class schedules, class rosters and training databases; keeps up to date with new industry standards and best practices
- Provides learning-focused application support, coaching, and troubleshooting to reinforce user proficiency. Identifies technical issues that require escalation and coordinates with Information Technology or other appropriate teams.
- Provides ad hoc training and occasional floor support as requested by the Senior Learning and Development Manager
- May travel to other office locations to conduct training, assess training needs and provide assistance as needed
- Completes other projects and duties as assigned
Skills & Competencies:- Excellent presentation, facilitation, coaching, and interpersonal communication skills
- Strong written communication, editing, proofreading, and documentation skills
- Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to audiences with different levels of technical proficiency
- Ability to develop training and execute on deliverables with little guidance
- Strong decision-making and project management skills
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple concurrent projects, priorities, and deadlines
- Ability to adapt and quickly shift priorities in a demanding environment
- Ability to work under pressure to meet strict deadlines
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
- Sound judgment when handling confidential or sensitive information
- Ability to work collaboratively across offices, departments, and functional teams
- Ability to receive feedback and revise training content or delivery approaches accordingly
- Flexibility to work varying schedules and ability to travel up to 10% of the time, both domestic and internationally
- Flexibility to work additional hours as needed if workload requires it
Qualifications & Required Experience:- Minimum of 5 years of experience training legal or professional services employees
- Bachelor's or advanced degree
Computer Skills:To perform this job successfully, an individual must be proficient in the following software:
- Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications and experience with learning management systems, virtual training platforms, eLearning-authoring tools, video-development tools, document management systems, generative AI tools, and other enterprise or legal-industry technologies.
- Ability to learn unfamiliar applications independently, evaluate their impact on users and workflows, and develop sufficient subject matter expertise to create and deliver accurate training.
Compensation Range: $85,000/yr. to $100,000/yr.
At Vedder, we believe in recognizing and rewarding our employees' contributions. Our comprehensive Total Rewards Package includes:
- Competitive Salary: We offer a competitive base salary commensurate with skills and experience.
- Bonus Program: Discretionary annual bonus program.
- Retirement Planning: Discretionary profit sharing and 401(k) matching to help you plan for your future.
- Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans, along with optional health savings and flexible spending accounts, firm-paid Life and Disability benefits, and wellness programs to support your overall well-being.
- Paid Time Off: Competitive time off package including vacation days, paid holidays, sick time and personal days.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career growth through firm provided training programs.
- Employee Recognition: Anniversary and Vedder Praise Programs to celebrate your achievements and milestones.
- Work-Life Balance: Hybrid work model and family-friendly policies.
- Additional Perks: Employee discount program, pre-tax commuter benefits, back up child & elder care, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), fitness center discounts and more.
Join Vedder and be part of a team that values hard work and dedication!
