Training and Staffing Specialist in San Leandro, California at Ghirardelli Chocolate Company

Position Summary
The Training & Staffing Specialist is responsible for coordinating workforce planning, job bidding, and training activities within a unionized production environment. This role ensures staffing levels align with operational needs, bid-related training is effectively executed, and employees are properly qualified for their roles.
The position also supports recruiting and onboarding of temporary employees, monitors training effectiveness, and maintains accurate workforce and training data across HR and learning systems. This role partners closely with HR and production leadership to ensure compliance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and support a well-trained, fully staffed operation.
Key Responsibilities
Workforce Planning & Job Bidding

• Identify training gaps across production areas to support job bid postings and awards
• Ensure staffing levels meet defined standards and operational requirements
• Coordinate job bidding process in alignment with CBA guidelines and HR partners
• Process bid outcomes including employee status and compensation changes in HR systems
• Track and monitor bid training progress to ensure qualification standards are met

Training & Skill Development

• Assess skill gaps using skill matrices, job breakdowns, and evaluation tools
• Build and manage training plans for role transitions and bid positions
• Oversee cross-training to maintain adequate coverage across production roles
• Track training progress through LMS and other tracking systems
• Support updates to training content based on process or procedural changes
• Evaluate training effectiveness and identify continuous improvement opportunities

Temporary Staffing & Onboarding

• Partner with HR to recruit and onboard temporary employees
• Conduct or support interviews and selection processes as needed
• Develop onboarding and training plans for temporary staff
• Provide ongoing coaching and monitor performance throughout assignments

Operational & Communication Support

• Support plant-wide communications and employee meetings with leadership
• Assist with execution of recognition and engagement programs
• Provide backup support to Production Scheduling as needed
• Maintain accurate workforce data including attendance, performance, and training records

Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement improvements in training and staffing processes
• Support training and education initiatives aimed at reducing operational losses
• Work independently in a fast-paced, evolving manufacturing environment

Minimum Qualifications
Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree OR 5+ years of experience in training, workforce development, or manufacturing operations with structured training systems

Core Skills

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• High attention to detail and data accuracy
• Experience working cross-functionally and managing action plans
• Ability to identify skill gaps and implement training solutions quickly
• Experience in union environments preferred; ability to support multiple shifts as needed

Technical Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Teams)
• Experience with HRIS and LMS platforms preferred
• Ability to learn and operate within technical manufacturing systems

Soft Skills

• Adaptability in changing environments
• Strong decision-making and time management skills
• Proactive, organized, and improvement-focused mindset