Training & Development Specialist

Company Overview

Performance Drone Works (PDW) designs and delivers advanced unmanned systems for those who serve on the front lines. Founded out of the Drone Racing League, our culture is competitive, tactical, and focused on results. Our mission is simple-provide purpose-built capabilities that meet real-world operational needs.

We are growing and looking for an experienced Training & Development Specialist to design and manage training programs that support employee development, strengthen technical and compliance skills, and align with PDW's strategic goals. This position calls for someone who can build training from the ground up, deliver it confidently, and adapt it to a range of learners across technical and non-technical roles. The ideal candidate will also have experience with DoD-specific compliance training, including CUI, ITAR, and related requirements.

What You'll Do

• Work with leadership to identify skill gaps and develop a training strategy that supports business and compliance needs.
• Create, update, and deliver training programs, including written materials, presentations, e-learning modules, and job aids.
• Manage PDW's Learning Management System (LMS), ensuring courses are assigned, tracked, and documented accurately.
• Oversee onboarding programs to ensure new hires receive the cultural, technical, and compliance training needed to be successful.
• Develop and lead compliance-related training, such as CUI, ITAR, security awareness, and other defense industry topics.
• Partner with subject matter experts to turn technical or regulatory information into clear, engaging content.
• Lead in-person and virtual training sessions, adapting delivery to meet the needs of different audiences.
• Measure training effectiveness through feedback, assessments, and performance results, making adjustments as needed.
• Keep up with new training tools, delivery methods, and compliance requirements relevant to the defense sector.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Instructional Design, Organizational Development, Human Resources, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in training creation and delivery, with at least 2 years in a corporate, manufacturing, or defense setting.
• Proven ability to develop training programs and materials from concept to completion.
• Solid understanding of adult learning principles, instructional design methods, and training evaluation techniques.
• Experience delivering both in-person and online training.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to groups confidently.
• Proficiency with e-learning authoring tools, presentation software, and Learning Management Systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in DoD compliance training, including CUI, ITAR, and NIST/CMMC.
• Professional certifications such as CPTD or APTD.
• Prior work experience in defense, aerospace, or other regulated industries.
• Experience with UKG Ready LMS.

Physical Requirements

Able to sit, stand, walk, bend, and move about regularly throughout the day. Must be able to travel between office and production areas, set up training spaces, and occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.

Work Environment

This position works primarily in an office setting but will regularly interact with production and manufacturing areas. Standard hours are 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with occasional evening or weekend work for training sessions. Some travel may be required.

ITAR Requirement

Under U.S. export control laws, candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders), or have asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Compensation and Benefits

PDW offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage (80% company-paid)
• Safe Harbor 401(k) with company match
• Paid parental leave
• Generous paid time off and flexible leave options
• A collaborative work environment focused on teamwork and innovation