Director of Learning & Development

About Peterson Cat

Peterson Cat has been a cornerstone in shaping communities for over 85 years, contributing to infrastructure, emergency power, fire-fighting, entertainment, and logistics. We offer not just a career but a purposeful experience within a family-oriented culture that emphasizes safety, success, growth, and professional excellence. Exceptional talent is fundamental to our ongoing success as our people reflect the Peterson legacy and values.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Director of Learning & Development based in Hillsboro, OR or San Leandro, CA, to lead and manage a broad employee training strategy designed to elevate the knowledge, proficiency, and effectiveness of our technical personnel and leaders. This includes oversight of technical, leadership, soft skills, and professional development programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Peterson University in advancing employee, dealer, and industry stakeholder training aligned with organizational priorities.
• Develop and implement a training strategy that supports the company's core values and goals.
• Manage Peterson's revenue-generating regional training center, ensuring compliance with CAT Regional Dealer Learning Center standards and optimizing manufacturer-certified technical training for dealer technicians.
• Partner with Talent Acquisition to attract and hire qualified Technical Trainers through innovative and proven channels.
• Collaborate with the Trainer Development Manager to enhance the readiness and growth of technical trainers.
• Maintain and develop structured technician training pathways for escalating technical expertise and career advancement.
• Design and continuously improve a non-RDLC training center to meet business needs.
• Oversee development of professional, leadership, business skills, and safety training programs.
• Conduct learning needs assessments and address workforce skill gaps in collaboration with leaders.
• Create scalable learning frameworks, governance systems, and succession planning to foster organizational growth.
• Participate actively on advisory boards for technician development programs and apprenticeship councils to further training and technician skill development.
• Evaluate and optimize training program effectiveness using metrics and feedback.
• Analyze training resource costs against benefits and ensure efficient use of training facilities and equipment.
• Forge and maintain partnerships with external education providers and experts to expand learning opportunities.
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and foster employee engagement at all levels.
• Manage training budgets and report on program outcomes to ensure optimal investment returns.
• Stay informed on relevant industry and educational trends affecting learning objectives.
• Advance managerial skills through personal development and engagement in professional associations.
• Deliver or assist in delivering training sessions as needed.
• Travel up to 30% to various Peterson and stakeholder locations.

Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Diesel Technology, Organizational Development, Adult Education, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum seven years of experience managing technical training programs.
• Proven supervisory experience.
• Expertise in designing and accrediting adult education programs is required.
• Master’s degree in Adult Education is preferred.
• Experience with unionized employee environments is a plus.
• Strong understanding of instructional design, adult learning theories, and performance consulting.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Compensation and Employment Details

The position offers a starting salary range in San Leandro, CA of $200,000 to $250,000, dependent on education and experience, coupled with a comprehensive compensation package. The role requires full-time onsite commitment with travel obligations up to 30%.

Commitment to Diversity and Compliance

Peterson Holding Company is an equal opportunity employer committed to affirmative action, encouraging applications from minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Employment is contingent upon background checks and drug screening.