Field Training Specialist - Lubbock, TX
Education / Training
Full Time
Welcome to Whataburger Careers!
The Field Training Specialist partners closely with restaurant leadership and the Regional Training Manager to execute training strategies at the market and unit level. They assess training needs through audits and observations, deliver targeted training, and ensure compliance with company standards. This role is hands-on, focusing on developing Leaders, supporting Manager-in-Training programs, and identifying high-potential talent for career growth. Field Training Specialists also facilitate certified training restaurant processes, assist with new restaurant openings, and provide coaching to improve operational performance. By serving as an in-market training expert, they help drive consistency, elevate hospitality, and strengthen bench talent to support long-term business success.Total Rewards:
- Competitive Weekly Pay
- Bonus Program with 250% Upside Potential
- Performance for Pay Program – Eligibility to Receive a Pay Increase Once a Year, Based on Performance
- Opportunities for Career Development and Growth
- Healthcare and Life Insurance Benefits
- Paid Time Off - 5 Weeks on Day 1!
- Paid Corporate Holidays
- Company Vehicle, Based on Position
- 401(k) Savings Plan with a Competitive Company Match
- Paid Parental Leave – Subject to Eligibility Requirements
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- Scholarship Program - You and Your Dependents are Eligible!
- Whataburger Family Foundation (Hardship Grant Assistance)
- Discounted Meals For You and a Guest
- Wireless Service Discounts
- Computer & Software Discounts
- Fitness / Gym Discounts
- Awards and Recognition For All You Do
- Retirement Celebration Program
Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with restaurant leadership and the Regional Training Manager to identify training needs and recommend strategies for assigned locations.
- Conduct restaurant audits and observations to assess training effectiveness and identify high-potential Family Members.
- Develop and deliver customized training plans tailored to market-specific needs and company initiatives.
- Facilitate Manager-in-Training (MIT) and Operations Leaders-in-Training (OPIT & OLIT) programs, including onboarding, monitoring progress, and recommending completion or removal.
- Recommend development and ready programs for high-performing Shift Leaders and Managers based on performance and readiness.
- Assist in the certification and monitoring of Training Restaurants, ensuring compliance with training standards.
- Support quarterly training rollouts for new products, systems, and LTOs.
- Lead Shift Leader training & development classes, ensuring content is engaging and effective.
- Serve as the training lead for New Restaurant Openings (NRO), coordinating trainer support and execution.
- Monitor and ensure compliance with all required training programs, including food safety, harassment prevention, and workplace safety.
- Ensure strong restaurant training systems using tools like Train U and Training Trackers.
- Provide feedback and recommendations to improve training content and procedures.
- Collaborate with Market Leaders and Operating Partners to address performance gaps through training interventions.
- Celebrate successes and recognize achievements to motivate and inspire teams within the region.
- Partner with HR/Talent Acquisition in region to support talent planning and career development initiatives to strengthen bench strength in assigned markets.
- Ensure cost-effective training execution and maintain fiscal responsibility for training-related expenses.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Education:
- Associate degree required or equivalent work experience.
- Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Experience:
- 1–3 years of experience in restaurant or hospitality leadership preferred.
- Knowledgeable in education or training in adult learning principles and theories
- Prior experience managing people, operations, and P&L performance strongly preferred.
Skills:
- Training Delivery - Ability to effectively facilitate instructor-led and on-the-job training sessions, ensuring engagement and comprehension of key concepts.
- Coaching & Mentoring - Skill in providing constructive feedback and guidance to develop Family Members’ skills and prepare them for leadership roles.
- Talent Identification - Capability to observe and assess performance to identify high-potential individuals for career advancement.
- Communication -Strong verbal and written communication skills to clearly convey expectations, provide feedback, and influence stakeholders.
- Operational Knowledge - Deep understanding of restaurant systems, processes, and standards to ensure training aligns with operational excellence.
- Problem-Solving - Ability to analyze performance gaps and recommend training interventions that drive measurable improvements.
- Adaptability - Flexibility to adjust training approaches based on audience, location, and evolving business needs.
- Collaboration- Skill in partnering with Operations leadership, HR, and Regional Training Managers to align training strategies with business goals.
- Time Management & Prioritization - Ability to manage multiple training initiatives, restaurant visits, and deadlines efficiently.
Professional Certification:
- Demonstrated ability to coach, motivate, and inspire Leaders.
- Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- ServSafe Food Manager Certification required (may vary based on city, county, and state requirements).
- Must possess a valid driver’s license, submit to releasing a Motor Vehicle Record that adheres to Whataburger standards & maintain current automobile liability at minimum levels in state of residence.
- Must be able to travel, both locally and long distances (including air travel) to worksites, meeting sites, and other locations.
Physical Requirements:
- Must be able to stand and sit for extended periods of time (up to 10 hours), lift up to 15 lbs. and meet all operational and safety standards.
- Frequent contact/immersion of hands in water, cleaning and sanitation solutions, meat products, poultry products, seafood, and produce items.
- Frequent washing of hands.
- Must be able to use computers, telephones, and office equipment