Training & Workforce Development Specialist (Escanaba, MI)

Job description

Purpose:

Are you interested in being part of an innovative team that supports Billerud’s mission to lead the way when it comes to challenging conventional packaging and business? Our decisions are guided by the promise of creating a better tomorrow. Building a future where lighter, stronger, more durable and sustainable packaging is the natural choice not only requires experience and expertise, but also takes dedication, teamwork and perseverance. This is a journey that we are making together with our talented staff and our customers.

Summary Description:

The Training & Workforce Development Specialist leads the strategy, design, execution, and continuous improvement of all training at the Escanaba Mill. The role supports both hourly and salaried training systems, aligns programs with corporate L&D, and meets the needs of a complex, unionized manufacturing environment. 

Qualifications

Key Responsibilities

• Integrate safety standards into all training programs.
• Lead mill training strategy and provide dotted‑line oversight to hourly trainers.
• Improve hourly training systems, capability, consistency, and certification processes.
• Develop salaried training programs including onboarding, leadership development, pathways, and mentorship.
• Align training initiatives with corporate L&D frameworks and tools.
• Drive improvements to training processes, systems, and technology to boost performance and efficiency.
• Support cost reduction through improved training effectiveness.
• Work effectively within a unionized environment to ensure consistent, compliant training solutions.
• Lead improvements to DMS workflows, OJT programs, and knowledge courses.
• Conduct skills assessments, training needs analyses, and gap analyses.
• Coach and develop hourly trainers to elevate instructional quality.
• Improve training data accuracy, KPIs, and reporting.
• Partner with operations to track progression, certification timelines, and readiness‑to‑perform metrics.
• Ensure compliance with Operator Skill & Knowledge Training requirements.
• Facilitate training development, updates, and continuous improvement.
• Participate in RCFA where training is a factor.
• Provide guidance to leaders on appropriate training solutions.
• Support Manufacturing Excellence tools and standardized work practices.
• Introduce new learning methods, technologies, and innovative training models.
• Support community workforce development initiatives as assigned.

Personal qualities

Minimum Required Experience and Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Development, Human Resources, Business, Engineering or related field OR Associates Degree with a minimum of 7 years of experience in learning and development or training.

Required Skills:

• Strong planning, project management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Skill in influencing and guiding stakeholders outside direct reporting lines.
• Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret training data and identify trends.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with training systems, learning platforms, and competency-based programs.
• Ability to design, interpret, and implement training needs analyses and corrective actions.
• Experience working within a unionized environment.
• Knowledge of organizational development practices, leadership development, and facilitation.

Application information

Billerud NA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability.

Why us?

At Billerud, you’ll be part of a collaborative, forward thinking team dedicated to shaping a more sustainable future. We’re committed to supporting your growth, well being, and long term success.

• Impactful Work – Contribute to meaningful sustainability initiatives.
• Career Growth – Access development programs and internal advancement opportunities.
• Education Support – Tuition reimbursement + certificate programs through partner schools.
• Competitive Compensation – Performance based bonus eligibility (role dependent).
• Comprehensive Benefits –
  
  • Multiple medical plans with virtual care options
  • Generous 401(k) offerings
  • HSA contribution match + additional preventive exam contribution
  • Dental & vision coverage
  • Company paid disability insurance
  • Prescription benefits

Our recruitment process may include interviews, recruitment test, reference checks, and alcohol & drug testing.