Park Senior Training & Safety Program Specialist

El Paso County, Colorado, USA; Colorado Springs (CO); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

El Paso County Parks Department is seeking a Senior Training & Safety Program Specialist to design, implement, and improve a comprehensive training and safety program for our parks workforce. You will develop curricula, deliver engaging safety sessions, and drive career progression while measuring program effectiveness.

You will collaborate with managers and subject‑matter experts to tailor training, provide coaching, and support workforce development across departments, including outdoor

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; one year of related training or facilitation experience.
• Experience in curriculum design and instruction preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in safety management, occupational safety, risk management, or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and continuously improve training and safety programs.
• Deliver instructional content and coaching to adult learners.
• Develop metrics to measure training effectiveness and program impact.
• Collaborate with managers and subject‑matter experts to improve curricula and outcomes.
• Coordinate travel and logistics for training sessions as needed.
• Support career progression initiatives and participate in planning meetings.

Skills

Instructional design

Staff development

Verbal & written communication

Organizational skills

Windows & Office

Data analysis

Customer service

Independent working

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor’s degree in safety management/related field

Job description

Senior Training & Safety Program Specialist

Build the Future of Parks Through Training, Safety, and Career Development

El Paso County Parks Department is seeking a Senior Training & Safety Program Specialist to lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of a comprehensive training, safety, and career progression program that supports our dedicated parks workforce.

In this dynamic role you will serve as the department’s training and safety champion, developing innovative learning experiences that equip employees with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed. From onboarding new team members and delivering engaging safety training to creating career development pathways and measuring program effectiveness, you will play a key role in strengthening employee performance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Working closely with managers, supervisors, and subject‑matter experts, you will assess organizational needs, develop curriculum, provide coaching and mentorship, and help shape career advancement opportunities across the Parks Department.

Candidates with experience working in parks, public works, facilities maintenance, construction, landscaping, recreation, natural resources, or other outdoor operational environments—especially within local government—are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience developing safety programs, conducting field‑based training, and supporting workforce development initiatives for operational employees will be highly valued.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Research, design, and implement curriculum and training to improve program outcomes; maintain and update training materials.
• Prepare and deliver information through a variety of instructional techniques and formats suitable for adult learners.
• Stay current with technological advancements in training methods and incorporate new and emerging media, including interactive online training, multimedia programs, distance learning, satellite training, videos, and simulator workshops.
• Develop metrics to analyze training effectiveness.
• Oversee, develop, and participate in delivering training related to departmental and assigned program area needs; ensure adherence to applicable regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Assess training needs through surveys, focus groups, colleague interviews, and management input; design and adapt programs and workshops accordingly.
• Conduct or participate in programs for new employees.
• Collaborate with subject‑matter experts, managers, and supervisors to recommend training improvements.
• Provide one‑on‑one coaching and mentoring; facilitate unit team‑building workshops as needed.
• Support the career progression program as directed.
• Participate in administrative meetings involving planning, decision‑making, and management.
• Serve as a liaison to community professionals, other agencies, and the public; respond to complaints and concerns related to training or performance issues.
• Coordinate travel arrangements for training as needed.
• Provide backup support to other programs or units as needed.
• Perform other duties as required.

Supervision Exercised

This classification does not have supervisory authority; however, it may provide expertise or limited guidance to employees, such as overseeing work quality, training, and guidance.

Supervision Received

Receives general supervision. This classification typically follows established standard operating procedures and/or policies. Regular direction, guidance, and coaching from a supervisor may be expected.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Working knowledge of instructional design methodologies and the ability to apply them to diverse learning needs.
• Knowledge of staff development and professional training practices.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational and coordination skills.
• Proficiency with Windows, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and related database or system applications.
• Record‑keeping, reporting, and basic data analysis proficiency.
• Effective instructional design, delivery, and evaluation capabilities.
• Conflict resolution and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent customer service orientation.
• Ability to plan, schedule, and organize work efficiently.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

Required Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• One year of training, facilitation, or related experience.

Preferred Education & Experience

• Experience in curriculum design and instruction.
• Bachelor’s degree in safety management, occupational safety, risk management, or a related field.
• Experience working in parks, public works, the landscape industry, or outdoor operations.

Licenses & Certificates

• Valid driver’s license.
• First Aid / CPR / AED Instructor certification or obtain within six months of employment.
• Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification or obtain within one year of employment.
• Associate Safety Professional (ASP) or similar certification preferred.

Pre‑Employment Requirements

• Conditional post‑offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, drug screen, and physical examination.

Work Conditions

Duties are primarily performed in an office and remote work environment dependent upon departmental discretion and business needs; some travel may be required for training and meetings. Some evening or weekend work may be required. The position requires the ability to safely lift, push, pull, manipulate, and maneuver up to 30 pounds, as well as standing, walking, reaching, bending, and crouching.

Legal Statements

El Paso County is an E‑Verify and Equal Opportunity Employer.

El Paso County adheres to Federal drug screening guidelines and requires a pre‑employment drug screen.