RDC Training Specialist

Build Your Career with Ashley Furniture - Where Innovation Meets Comfort

Who We Are:

At Ashley, inspiring the love of home is at the heart of everything we do. As the world's largest manufacturer of home furnishings, we're more than a business  we're a family driven by innovation, competitiveness, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We persevere through challenges, push beyond the status quo, and constantly seek better ways to deliver an exceptional customer experience. Our solutions-first mindset and dedication to growth are why Ashley remains #1 in our industry.

If you're ready to grow, you've come to the right place. With a true "Growth Mindset," Ashley Furniture invests in developing future leaders and helps every team member learn from the best in the business.

If you are a current Ashley employee: Please login to your UKG account and apply using the internal job board.

The Retail Distribution Center (RDC) Training Specialist is primarily responsible for facilitating RDC Functional onboarding all Ashley warehouse associates, ensuring associates perform their job duties correctly in compliance with all company policies and procedures, and meet quality and productivity expectations. In addition, the Training Specialist may conduct professional development offerings for non-production, production, and supervisory associates. The Training Specialist will implement and interpret course surveys for the RDC Functional onboarding program at their respective location. Based upon the results, the Training Specialist will partner with the business leaders and Human Resources to improve engagement and retention with the program.

Responsibilities:

Program Development & Maintenance

• Facilitate RDC functional onboarding and professional development offerings for associates and supervisors throughout the Ashley Retail Distribution Center organization
• Maintain RDC functional onboarding program materials in partnership with HR Talent Development-Learning program specialists, safety team, and learning experience designers assigned to the onboarding curriculum
• Participate in identifying continuous improvement opportunities within the programs delivered to enhance learning outcomes and engagement
• Review and update training materials to ensure accuracy, relevance, and alignment with current processes and procedures
• Collaborate with subject matter experts to develop new training content and refresh existing materials
• Ensure training programs meet compliance requirements and industry best practices

Training Delivery & Instruction

• Plan, prepare, and deliver instruction of assigned courses using a variety of teaching methods to facilitate the learning of employees and accommodate different learning styles
• Depending on program/discipline, teach courses in a classroom setting, online platforms, and/or on the production floor across different shifts as needed
• Utilize instructional technology, multimedia resources, and hands-on demonstrations to create engaging learning experiences
• Adapt teaching methods based on audience needs, learning objectives, and content complexity
• Facilitate group discussions, activities, and interactive exercises to reinforce learning
• Provide one-on-one coaching and support to learners as needed

Assessment & Evaluation

• Assess training success and effectiveness through multiple evaluation methods
• Create and administer evaluations including written tests, verbal assessments, competency demonstrations, and hands-on application exercises
• Compile evaluation information and data in a manner that includes making recommendations for improvements in delivery, materials, or format
• Track training completion rates, assessment scores, and learner feedback
• Analyze training metrics to identify trends and opportunities for improvement
• Report on training outcomes and effectiveness to leadership and stakeholders

Classroom & Logistics Management

• Responsible for classroom management including managing attendance, confirming guest presenters, arranging lunches/snacks, and assisting HR with administrative tasks
• Order and store all program supplies in a dedicated supply room, maintaining inventory and ensuring adequate stock levels
• Set up the training room and individual placemats/materials for each new employee prior to each session
• Coordinate training schedules across multiple shifts and ensure adequate coverage
• Manage training technology and equipment including computers, projectors, and learning management systems
• Ensure training facilities are clean, organized, and conducive to learning

Administrative Functions

• Perform administrative tasks such as monitoring costs, scheduling classes, setting up systems and equipment, and coordinating enrollment
• Maintain accurate training records, attendance logs, and certification documentation in compliance with company policies
• Track training budgets and manage expenses related to materials, supplies, and external resources
• Coordinate with HR and operations teams on new hire schedules and training needs
• Generate reports on training activity, completion rates, and program performance
• Manage training communications including class announcements, reminders, and follow-up

Professional Development

• Maintain professional knowledge and skills in assigned disciplines, required training certifications, and instructional technology/delivery methods to support Ashley's overall goals and objectives
• Stay current with adult learning principles, instructional design trends, and training best practices
• Pursue relevant certifications and continuing education opportunities
• Attend train-the-trainer sessions and professional development programs
• Share knowledge and best practices with other trainers and stakeholders

Core Values Demonstration

• Demonstrate the Company's Core and Growth Values in the performance of all job functions
• Model expected behaviors and serve as a positive representative of Ashley's culture and values

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required
• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in training delivery, adult education, or instructional roles
• Strong presentation and public speaking skills with ability to engage diverse audiences
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with ability to explain complex concepts clearly
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Experience with learning management systems (LMS) and e-learning platforms
• Strong organizational and time management skills with ability to manage multiple training sessions and priorities
• Customer service orientation with patience and enthusiasm for helping others learn
• Ability to work flexible hours including early mornings, evenings, and weekends to accommodate different shift schedules
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift training materials up to 25 lbs, and move throughout training facilities
• Understanding of adult learning principles and instructional design concepts

Additional Qualifications, Preferred:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Education, Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or related field
• 3-5 years of corporate training or warehouse/distribution center training experience
• Train-the-Trainer certification or professional training credentials (ATD, CPTD, or similar)
• Experience in retail, distribution, or logistics training environments
• Familiarity with warehouse operations, safety procedures, and distribution center processes
• Experience developing training materials and curriculum design
• Knowledge of OSHA safety training requirements and compliance
• Background in competency-based training and skills assessment
• Experience with video production, eLearning authoring tools (Articulate, Captivate), or learning technology
• Lean or Six Sigma certification with understanding of continuous improvement methodologies
• Bilingual skills (English/Spanish) to support diverse workforce

Work Environment:

This position operates in a combination of climate-controlled classroom/office environments and active distribution center settings. The role involves extended periods of standing while delivering training, setting up classrooms, and conducting hands-on instruction. The position may require walking through warehouse areas with moderate to high noise levels, temperature variations, and material handling equipment in operation. Training delivery may occur across multiple shifts including early mornings, evenings, and weekends to accommodate operational schedules.

Pay:

Competitive compensation based on experience

Benefits We Offer:

• Health, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off; increases with years of service
• Generous Employee Discount on home furnishings
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Tuition Assistance
• Ashley Wellness Centers (location specific)
• 401(k) and Profit Sharing
• Life Insurance

Our Core Values:

Honesty & Integrity: Acts with transparency, discretion, and ethical judgment. Trusted to handle sensitive information and provide accurate, unbiased insights.

Dirty Fingernail: Takes full accountability for outcomes, not just tasks. Inspects details, ensures data accuracy, and follows through to completion.

Continuous Improvement: Actively seeks better ways to improve templates, tools, and processes. Learns from prior initiatives and embeds lessons into standard work.

Growth & Results Focus: Understands how transformation initiatives drive growth, cost reduction, and profitability. Keeps work aligned to enterprise priorities.

Culture of Leadership: Leads through influence, reliability, and example. Builds trust across functions and supports leaders at every level.

Customer-Centric & Boundaryless: Works across silos for the greater good of the organization. Ensures outputs meet the needs of executives, initiative owners, and teams.

Operational Excellence: Demonstrates strong organizational discipline, attention to detail, and the ability to translate ambiguity into clear, executable tools.

Interested in learning more about Ashley Furniture's Community Engagement programs, Environmental Stewardship, or our Core Values, click the links below:

• Corporate Social Responsibility
• View Our Corporate Brochure

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and provide a drug-free working environment. While Ashley appreciates the interest of all candidates, only those meeting specific position requirements may be contacted. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

Notice to Search Firms: We are not seeking assistance or accepting unsolicited resumes from search firms. We will not pay any placement, referral or other fees to any search firms unless we have agreed otherwise in a valid, written agreement for the specific position posted and signed by an authorized representative of Ashley Furniture Industries.

Please note this position is not eligible for current or future employment sponsorship. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or at any time in the future.