Training Specialist

PORTWEST, a leading global manufacturer of safety wear, workwear and PPE. Founded in 1904, Portwest has become one of the fastest growing workwear companies in the world currently employing over 6000 staff worldwide. With 1400 styles across more than 20 ranges, we design, manufacture and distribute market leading workwear, safety wear and PPE in fully owned production facilities. We’re on a mission to become the world’s most requested PPE and Safety Wear Brand.

JOB SUMMARY:

Portwest is currently seeking applications for the position Training Specialist based in Thurnscoe, Barnsley on a Full Time, reporting to Warehouse Operations Manager.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Deliver hands-on training and coaching within warehouse operational areas.
• Provide real-time support and guidance to colleagues to ensure correct methods and standards are followed.
• Conduct competency assessments and sign-offs across warehouse functions.
• Reinforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safe working practices.
• Identify skills gaps and implement practical coaching interventions.
• Support the onboarding and integration of new starters within live operational environments.
• Ensure colleagues achieve required competency levels safely and efficiently.
• Provide ongoing support to new starters during their initial training period.
• Maintain accurate training records, competency matrices, and training documentation.
• Monitor training expiry dates, refresher requirements, and recertification activities.
• Ensure mandatory training requirements are completed and recorded.
• Support the implementation of new processes, systems, equipment, and operational initiatives.
• Work closely with operational leaders to promote standardisation and best practice across all shifts.

Communication & Problem Solving

• Build effective working relationships with colleagues, Team Leaders, Supervisors, and Managers.
• Communicate training requirements, performance expectations, and operational standards clearly and effectively.
• Identify recurring training issues and recommend practical solutions to improve performance and consistency.
• Challenge incorrect practices constructively and support behavioural improvements.
• Respond to operational training needs in a fast-paced warehouse environment.

Reporting Relationships

• Reports directly to the Warehouse Operations Manager.
• Works closely with Warehouse Team Leaders, Supervisors, and Operational Management teams.
• Provides guidance and support to warehouse colleagues across all operational areas.

Scope of Impact

• Direct impact on colleague competency, operational performance, safety standards, and process compliance.
• Supports reduction in operational errors through effective training and coaching.
• Contributes to improved productivity, consistency, and colleague development across the warehouse operation.
• Influences training standards and operational best practice across all shifts.

Regional or Global Support of Role

• Primary responsibility is supporting the Thurnscoe warehouse operation.
• May provide support for wider operational training initiatives and standardisation projects as required.

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of warehouse operations and processes.
• Excellent coaching, mentoring, and training delivery skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to engage effectively with colleagues at all levels.
• High attention to detail, particularly regarding training records and compliance.
• Strong organisational and planning skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Confident in providing constructive feedback and challenging non-compliant behaviours.

Required Experience

• Previous experience in a warehouse, logistics, or distribution environment.
• Experience delivering operational training, coaching, or mentoring.
• Experience conducting competency assessments and maintaining training records.
• Experience supporting new starter onboarding and development.
• RTITB certification for MHE training is desirable/required.

 

Working Pattern

• Monday to Friday, 37 hours per week.
• Flexibility required to work between 6:00am and 10:00pm to support operational training requirements.
• Approximately 80% of time spent on the warehouse floor, with the remaining time focused on planning, reporting, and record management.

 

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