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Learning Program Specialist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Learning Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

The Senior Learning Specialist leads the assessment of training needs, designs and develops ... Program & Vendor Management: Source, assess, and partner with external vendors, consultants, and ...

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Learning Program Specialist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27.8K

$70.1K

$125.2K

How much do learning program specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for learning program specialist in Chicago, IL is $70,063.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $88,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a learning program specialist?

Learning Program Specialists are professionals who design, implement, and assess educational programs within organizations or institutions. They work to improve the effectiveness of learning initiatives by researching best practices, developing training materials, and supporting instructors or facilitators. Their goal is to ensure that educational programs meet the needs of learners and align with organizational objectives. They often collaborate with subject matter experts and use data to continually enhance program quality.

How does a learning program specialist typically collaborate with subject matter experts and instructional designers?

Learning Program Specialists often serve as a bridge between subject matter experts (SMEs) and instructional designers, ensuring that course content is both accurate and engaging. They coordinate meetings, facilitate the sharing of expertise, and help translate complex information into effective learning materials. This collaboration requires strong communication and project management skills, as well as the ability to align educational objectives with organizational needs. By working closely with both groups, Learning Program Specialists help maintain quality and consistency across training programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a learning program specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Learning Program Specialist, you need expertise in instructional design, curriculum development, and adult learning principles, often backed by a degree in education, instructional design, or a related field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), e-learning authoring tools, and assessment platforms is typically expected. Strong project management, communication, and collaboration skills help you effectively engage stakeholders and adapt to diverse learner needs. These skills ensure that learning programs are impactful, well-organized, and aligned with organizational goals.

What is the difference between Learning Program Specialist vs Training Coordinator?

AspectLearning Program SpecialistTraining Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree; certifications in learning or instructional design often preferredBachelor's degree; certifications in training or HR beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing learning programs, often in educational or corporate settingsOrganizing and scheduling training sessions, often in corporate or organizational environments
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, corporations, nonprofitsCorporations, government agencies, nonprofits
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on program development and instructional designFocuses on logistics and delivery of training sessions

The Learning Program Specialist primarily designs and develops learning initiatives, while the Training Coordinator manages the logistics and delivery of training sessions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work within the same industries, but their core responsibilities differ in focus and scope.

How do I become a learning program specialist?

To become a learning program specialist, typically a bachelor's degree in education, training, or a related field is required, along with experience in instructional design, curriculum development, or training delivery. Developing skills in learning management systems, project management, and communication can enhance qualifications, and some roles may prefer or require certifications such as CPLP or ATD credentials.

What degree do you need to be a learning program specialist?

A learning program specialist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in education, instructional design, or a related field. Some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or relevant certifications in training or curriculum development. Strong communication skills and experience with learning management systems are also beneficial.

WFD Program Specialist

Chicago, IL • On-site

ERIE NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE
51 - 200 employees

$24.04/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Erie Neighborhood House has provided the most comprehensive support immigrant and low-income families in Chicago need to thrive and has constantly evolved to meet their needs. Today, Erie House is a modern social service nonprofit with programming and resources for children and youth, mental health and community wellness, adult education and training, legal services, and more. Through these programs, we empower the people we work alongside to build powerful communities.

Outreach, Recruitment, & Orientation 

  • Develop and execute recruitment strategies to engage eligible adults in workforce programs. 
  • Participate in community outreach events. 
  • Administer skill level tests for participating adults.  
  • Provide a structured orientation for adults to set expectations. 
  • Research and conduct outreach in prime venues, events or community areas to increase enrollment into workforce bridge programs. 
  • Attending outreach events and job fairs to bring resources and participants to our program. 

Job Readiness Training 

  • Case manages all the participants who are actively involved in a workforce development program including job seekers, CDBG,  etc. to ensure the following:   completion of postsecondary training and industry-related job placement. 
  • Guide participants in exploring different training and employment pathways in a particular industry to decide which path best fits their interests and skills 
  • Educate and assist participants with creation of resumes and cover letters 
  • Coordinate program events such as career expos, job fairs, and field trips to businesses and colleges 
  • Assist participants with addressing barriers that prevent them from completing postsecondary training or obtaining employment 
  • Lead curriculum delivery, interactive activities, and workforce development training for participants. 

Employment & Job Support 

  • Maintain active communication with employers and clients during their first year of employment 
  • Conduct regular retention client support (check in at 30, 90, 120 days) 
  • Track employment details in required databases 
  • Collect and process participant timesheets and payroll documentation securely. 
  • Develop and connect with industry related employers and training institutes to provide job openings and educational opportunities for participants 
  • Share job leads, workshops/events, and scholarship opportunities with participants and follow up with the outcome 
  • Maintain clothing closet clean, stocked and organized for participants 

Program Support 

  • Attend workshops and meetings as relevant to the position. 
  • Research and conduct outreach in prime venues, events or community areas to increase enrollment into workforce bridge programs. 
  • Attending outreach events and job fairs to bring resources and participants to our program. 
  • Support Program Manager in organizing job fair event for Workforce Development program. 
  • Developing flyers, brochures, and other methods to advertise job placement activities. 
  • Coordinates and distributes information and materials for meetings; assists in planning meeting agendas; assists in meeting set-up; maintains current committee member lists for various committees. 
  • Engages in collaborative engagement among the team. 
  • Provides updated reports to program manager. 
  • Bachelor's degree. 
  • Minimum of two years of experience providing workforce case management to immigrants, career changers and/or youth 
  • Experience with creating and providing feedback with resumes and mock interviews 
  • Strong oral communications skills, bilingual English/Spanish mandatory 
  • Professional writing skills and ability to assist with some grant writing 
  • Comfortable and confident with public speaking 
  • Ability to build connections with employers, participants as well as volunteers and confident with networking skills 
  • Flexibility with work schedule & ability to travel around Chicago 
  • Must be available for occasional evening and weekend events 
  • Ability to travel between West Town, Little Village and other work sites. 
  • TEAM MEMBER BENEFITS 

  • Compensation of $24.04/ hour 
  • Work / life integration 
    • Generous paid time off  
  • (examples below for full-time employment) 

  • 12 accrued sick days per year 
    • 3 personal days 
    • Paid birthday off 
    • 8 paid holidays, including Juneteenth 
    • In addition to above paid holidays, paid week off between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day 
    • Vacation 
      • Year 1 = 8 days 
      • Year 2 = 13 days 
      • Year 3 + = 20 days 
    • Access to alternative and flexible work schedules and personal leave, where possible 
    • Two-weeks fully paid Parental Leave, for eligible employees  
    • Time off for school conferences and activities as well as bereavement leave 
  • Professional Development 
    • Employer-sponsored learning and development programs 
    • Paid day off annually for personal professional development  
    • Tuition Assistance & Debt Relief Program, as budget allows
  • Wellness support 
    • Employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance 
    • Employer-paid life insurance 
    • Voluntary life and AD&D and shot and long-term disability 
    • Flexible Spending Accounts for medical, vision and dependent care 
    • 403b with employer match 
    • Employee Assistance Program 

Union / Non Exempt 

Erie Neighborhood House is dedicated to creating a workforce that promotes and supports diversity and inclusion. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals without discrimination. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact us at hr@eriehouse.org. 

NO TELEPHONE CALLS PLEASE!

ERIE NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

ACCREDITED BY NAEYC & NATIONAL AFTERSCHOOL ASSOCIATION

RECOGNIZED BY DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE;

UNITED WAY MEMBER