NL - Training & Compliance Specialist (Naperville, IL)

JOB TITLE: Training and Compliance Specialist – Locate Division
STATUS: Full Time, Exempt (Salary) Employee
RELEVANT WORK EXPERIENCE: Minimum of 5 years utility locating experience required. Ability to locate all utility types.
REPORTS TO: Damage Prevention Manager
DIRECT REPORTS: N/A

JOB SUMMARY: The Training and Compliance Specialist is responsible for developing, delivering, and overseeing training programs related to utility locating practices. This role also involves auditing and evaluating the performance of utility locators to ensure compliance with industry standards, company policies, and safety regulations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in utility locating, strong communication skills, and a passion for safety and education.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Training & Development:

• Conduct training for all incoming employees on company standard locating materials and procedures.
• Conduct classroom and field training sessions for new hires and existing staff, covering best practices, safety protocols, and proper use of locating equipment.
• Stay current on industry trends, technology advancements, and regulatory changes to ensure training programs are up to date.
• Provide one-on-one coaching and mentorship to enhance the skills and knowledge of utility locators.

Auditing & Compliance:

• Perform regular field audits to assess the accuracy and quality of utility locating work.
• Evaluate locators' adherence to safety standards, proper use of equipment, and compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Document audit findings, prepare detailed reports, and provide feedback to locators and management.
• Develop corrective action plans and follow up on implementation to ensure continuous improvement.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of training sessions, certifications, and audit results.
• Prepare and present reports on training effectiveness, audit findings, and overall compliance to management.
• Collaborate with management to analyze data and identify trends or areas needing improvement.

Safety & Compliance:

• Promote a culture of safety and ensure that all training programs emphasize the importance of safe locating practices.
• Keep abreast of federal, state, and local regulations related to utility locating and ensure that all training and auditing processes are compliant.
• Act as a subject matter expert on utility locating safety protocols and provide guidance to the team as needed.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Attention to detail; strong focus on accuracy and thoroughness in all tasks.
• Willingness to travel (75% +) for field audits, training sessions, and meetings.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Expertise in locate industry.
• Ability to maintain a consistent teamwork mentality.
• Knowledge and understanding of Northern Lights policies.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to pass a drug and alcohol screen.
• Must have a valid Driver’s License and the ability to obtain a DOT physical certification.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Dayshift work primarily, with occasional alternative shift work.
• Exposure to dust, dirt, foul odors, irritating noises, extreme weather conditions, and other safety hazards. Exposure to moving mechanical parts, equipment, fumes, airborne particles, high places, toxic chemicals, and electrical shock risk.
• Loud noise level environments.
• Employees are expected to have, utilize, maintain, and wear all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required by Northern Lights Locating, the client and any other applicable regulatory agency or management directive.
• Ability to work in outdoor environments and perform field audits in various weather conditions.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

• Self-motivated and able to learn quickly.
• Team-oriented and has exemplary character.
• Safety-focused.
• Strong communication skills.

NORTHERN LIGHTS OFFERS:

• Competitive pay.
• Paid Holidays and Vacation Time.
• Affordable benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD and Life.
• 401(k) Plan – with match!

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Minimum of 5 years utility locating experience required.
• Knowledge and expertise in locating multiple utilities (i.e. electric, telecommunications, water, sewer, gas, etc.)
• Strong understanding of utility locating principles, techniques, and equipment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Proficiency in reading utility maps.
• Ability to present professionally and foster a learning environment to respond to questions from groups of trainees, managers, and employees.