Professional Development Specialist

This is a hybrid position based in our Chicago/O’Hare Area office. Candidates must live within a 100-mile radius of home-office.

Under the supervision of the Manager, Certificates and Learning Programs, this role supports and owns key functional aspects of the implementation and ongoing use of SOA’s Learning Management System (LMS) and virtual learning programs portfolio. Works independently and collaboratively to ensure effective LMS adoption, operational readiness, and the reliable delivery of high-quality virtual events and programs. This role partners with vendors, volunteers, and SOA staff to plan, implement, deliver, and continuously improve learning programs with a strong focus on user experience, training, quality assurance, troubleshooting, and content support. 

What You'll Do: 

LMS SUPPORT AND PLATFORM OWNERSHIP

Support and own designated functional aspects of LMS implementation, testing, and ongoing management in partnership with other departments and vendors.Support and lead content upload, organization, and ongoing maintenance within the LMS.Proactively identify and maximize the use of LMS features and functionality to improve learning delivery, efficiency, and user experience.Develop, configure, and maintain in-platform learning assets, templates, and content using LMS-native tools.Collaborate with E-learning and Content & Business Partnerships teams to ensure accurate course setup, consistency, and a high-quality user experience.Perform quality checks on content, workflows, and learner-facing functionality, promptly identifying and addressing issues.Develop, maintain, and continuously improve user guides, FAQs, and training materials to support LMS adoption and effective use.Run and interpret standard LMS reports related to user enrollment, participation, and program completion. Develop custom reports in collaboration with IT and vendors where required.Own the accuracy, integrity, and effective use of LMS-related data in Salesforce, including validation of data flows, reconciliation with LMS reporting, and development of reports to support program performance, enrollment tracking, and decision-making.Provide clear data summaries, detailed reports, and insights to internal teams to support decision-making, improvements, and stakeholder management. Coordinate and escalate technical issues to IT or vendors as needed, owning follow-through and resolution.Review LMS analytics, user feedback, and reporting to identify trends and inform ongoing program and platform improvements.Serve as the primary point of contact for LMS-related questions for internal stakeholders.

VIRTUAL LEARING SUPPORT

Support the execution and quality of virtual events and programs.Support and own the functional implementation and ongoing use of virtual event tools, including but not limited to event mobile app, event platform(s), virtual production, recording vendors, and related data integrations, including Salesforce where applicable.Create and manage event project plans, including defined deliverables, milestones, and deadlines.Serve as the primary technical owner for virtual events, providing guidance and real-time support to presenters, moderators, and attendees before and during events. 

Establish and manage event testing, rehearsal, and quality control procedures, including checklists and readiness standards.

Produce comprehensive virtual event reports, including attendance, polling, Q&A data, and other data sources.Research and evaluate new tools, features, and practices to enhance digital learning and virtual event experience.Learn and apply SOA-approved technology tools to support event delivery and operational efficiency. Some overnight travel required.Other responsibilities as assigned are to support strategic functions and SOA initiatives.

What You'll Need:  

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED (an equivalent amount of training, education and experience will be considered)

Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Education, Business Administration, Project Management, or other related areas.One to three years of experience in planning and delivering virtual programs and events and project management. 

At least one year of hands-on experience working in an LMS. 

Experience supporting users in a learning, education, or training environment.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Zoom.

 

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

Experience supporting continuing education, certification, or professional learning programs.Experience working with systems and data (especially LMS, event, or learning data in CRM or reporting tools like Salesforce) without being in a technical or IT role.Experience using virtual events platforms (e.g. InEvent) 

Experience using video hosting platforms (e.g. Vimeo, YouTube)

Experience with video or image editing.Association experience.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

Highly adaptable in a fast-paced, evolving environment. Able to analyze information to find trends or diagnose problem areas.Familiar with adult learning principles and design of virtual learning environments 

Comfortable learning new software tools.Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills.

Provide excellent service while effectively partnering with staff, members and volunteer leaders whose objectives and knowledge base may vary.Communicate effectively orally and in writing.Work effectively independently and as a member of a team.Manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees may be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested, subject to all applicable state and federal laws. Certain job functions described herein may be subject to possible modification in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.

What We Offer: 

Competitive Compensation: We understand the value of your contributions, and we ensure that you are rewarded competitively for your skills and dedication.Generous Paid Time Off: Achieve a work-life balance with ample paid time off, giving you the flexibility, you need for personal and family responsibilities.Professional Development: We invest in our team's growth. Take advantage of opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement, including tuition reimbursement and continuing education funding.Health and Wellness: Your well-being is important to us. Enjoy access to comprehensive health benefits, wellness programs, including our Employee Assistance program (EAP) and wellness reimbursement.Disability Coverage: Gain peace of mind with our comprehensive disability coverage, including life, short-term, and long-term disability benefits.Retirement Planning: Secure your future with our 403(b) plan and generous employer contribution.Maternal/Paternal Leave: Embrace parenthood with confidence, knowing that we've got you covered every step of the way. Our maternal/paternal leave policy is designed to give you the time you need to bond with your newest family member without worrying about work.Flexible Work Environment: Embrace a flexible hybrid environment that supports your productivity and work-life balance.Diversity and Inclusion: We celebrate diversity and foster an inclusive workplace where everyone's unique perspectives are valued.

 

The SOA will provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment regardless of actual or perceived race, color, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, disability (mental or physical), genetic information, military or veteran status, marital status, order of protection status, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other category protected by applicable law. Such action shall include but is not limited to: initial consideration for employment; job placement and assignment of responsibilities; performance evaluation; promotion and advancement; compensation and fringe benefits; training and professional development opportunities; formulation and application of human resource policies and rules; facility and service accessibility; and discipline and termination.