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Director Learning Development Jobs in Joliet, IL

Lead, direct, coach, and develop a team of Learning & Development professionals across the Americas region. * Build a high-performing, collaborative, and customer-focused team culture. * Ensure team ...

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Director Learning Development information

See Joliet, IL salary details

$42.1K

$110K

$178.1K

How much do director learning development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for director learning development in Joliet, IL is $109,969.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,600.00 and $128,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of learning and development?

To thrive as a Director of Learning and Development, you need expertise in instructional design, organizational development, and adult learning theory, often supported by a degree in education, HR, or a related field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), e-learning authoring tools, and certifications like CPLP or SHRM-CP is typically required. Strategic thinking, leadership, and strong communication skills help you drive change and foster a culture of continuous learning. These skills and qualities are crucial for aligning learning initiatives with business goals and ensuring workforce development.

What are the most common challenges faced by a director of learning and development when implementing new training programs across an organization?

One of the main challenges for Directors of Learning and Development is gaining buy-in from both leadership and employees for new training initiatives. Balancing diverse learning needs across different departments while ensuring consistency in delivery can also be complex. Additionally, measuring the effectiveness of programs and demonstrating their impact on business outcomes often requires careful planning and ongoing evaluation. Successful Directors typically overcome these challenges through strong communication, collaboration with stakeholders, and leveraging data-driven approaches to tailor and refine development strategies.

What is the difference between Director Learning Development vs Learning and Development Manager?

AspectDirector Learning DevelopmentLearning and Development Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in education, HR, or related field; often prefers advanced certifications like CPLP or ATD certificationsSimilar educational background; certifications like CPLP or ATD are common but less frequently required
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership role overseeing multiple teams or departments, involved in high-level planningOperational role focused on implementing training programs and managing teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large organizations across various industries, especially where training is a strategic priorityCommon in organizations of all sizes, often as a mid-level position within HR or Learning departments

The main difference between a Director Learning Development and a Learning and Development Manager lies in scope and seniority. The Director typically leads strategic initiatives and manages multiple teams, while the Manager focuses on executing training programs and day-to-day operations. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in responsibilities and organizational level.

What does a director learning development do?

A director of learning development oversees the design, implementation, and evaluation of training programs to enhance employee skills and organizational performance. They often manage teams, collaborate with leadership, and utilize learning management systems to ensure effective training delivery and alignment with business goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Learning Development jobs in Joliet, IL?

The most popular types of Learning Development jobs in Joliet, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Director Learning Development jobs in Joliet, IL?

For Director Learning Development jobs in Joliet, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Joliet, IL are hiring for Director Learning Development jobs?

Cities near Joliet, IL with the most Director Learning Development job openings:

Director, Learning & Development

Brookfieldzoo

Brookfield, IL • On-site

$154.93 - $170.60/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Job Description

Chicago Zoological Society | Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America

Position: Director of Learning & Development (Full‑time, salaried, grade 13). Salary range: $154,932 - $170,600 per year.

Overview

Join the PRIDE and Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s mission to ignite emotional connections with wildlife that spark conservation action while leading vital programs to protect endangered species. The Director of Learning & Development partners with staff, business unit leaders, and subject‑matter experts to design, administer, coordinate, and evaluate high‑quality training experiences that increase workforce performance and employee engagement.

Responsibilities Needs Assessment and Strategy
  • Partner with stakeholders to identify skills gaps and training needs across departments.
  • Build scalable learning frameworks that align with company goals and support employees at all levels.
  • Develop and execute a multi‑year strategic learning framework aligned to enterprise goals.
Program Development
  • Design, create, and implement comprehensive training programs (in‑person workshops, e‑learning, onboarding, leadership development).
  • Spearhead change management, culture transformation, and leadership development that supports institutional growth.
  • Embed DEAI principles in every facet of learning and development practices.
  • Ensure training initiatives strengthen regulatory compliance, mitigate risk, and support operational readiness.
Facilitation and Training
  • Deliver dynamic training sessions, facilitate interactive workshops, and lead engaging new‑hire orientation.
  • Coach and advise senior leaders on succession planning and development strategies.
Evaluation and Improvement
  • Position learning as a driver of operational performance, safety culture, and employee engagement.
  • Define and implement strategic L&D KPIs that connect workforce training to measurable performance, engagement, and retention outcomes.
  • Deliver executive‑level insights on workforce capability and ROI, utilizing analytics to drive strategic, data‑informed talent decisions.
  • Oversee LMS strategy and digital learning technologies to ensure scalable, compliant, and high‑quality user‑centric experiences.
Budget and Vendor Management
  • Manage vendor relations, content licensing, and training resources.
  • Manage the learning budget in partnership with P&C leadership.
Other
  • Actively monitor and adopt emerging e‑learning technologies, tools, and industry trends.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned to ensure successful achievement of Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s goals and objectives.
Position Requirements
  • High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED) required. Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Development, Human Resources, Instructional Design, Business Administration, or related field, or eight years of equivalent experience, required.
  • Five years of experience in learning & development, instructional design, and/or organizational development that includes supporting senior leaders and cross‑functional stakeholders.
  • Expertise in designing and delivering engaging, learner‑centered educational experiences that drive performance.
  • Skilled in virtual and in‑person facilitation that encourages active participation, peer‑to‑peer learning, and high engagement.
  • Experience in full‑life‑cycle training portfolio from onboarding to leadership development across multiple functional areas of a complex organization.
  • Demonstrated capability in instructional design utilizing learning theory and e‑learning software.
  • Proficiency in designing and executing training needs assessment, leveraging data analytics and evaluation frameworks to track pre‑ and post‑training metrics against organizational performance and ROI.
  • English fluency at a professional working proficiency.
  • Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
  • Valid driver’s license required on date of hire. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois driver’s license at the time of hire or within 90 days. Out‑of‑state residents must provide a valid out‑of‑state license.
Desirable/Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience using a Learning Management System and administration functions.
  • Multilingual ability; Spanish fluency is a plus.
Additional Information

Must be able to work within a very fast‑paced environment with rapidly shifting priorities. The position may require early mornings, evenings, and occasional Saturdays to meet the training needs of the organization. The role involves safely operating a golf cart to transport training equipment to various locations within the Zoo.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

EEO Statement

This position is open to all qualified applicants. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

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