Training Director - Houston, TX

Job Title: Training Director

Reports to: Vice President, Product Support

Location: Houston, TX

Department: Admin Salary

FLSA Status: Salary Exempt

About Us

Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, CraneWorks is a leading dealer of new and used truck-mounted and mobile crane equipment. The company provides manufacturer-backed service, extensive parts inventory, and a modern bare rental fleet across a national footprint including multiple full-service locations.

CraneWorks serves a diverse range of industrial sectors, including construction, oil & gas, utilities, transportation, forestry, and renewable energy. With revenues approaching $250 million, the company has established itself as a top dealer in its markets and continues to expand through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

In 2023, Equity Group Investments (EGI) made a significant investment in CraneWorks, supporting the company’s continued growth and operational excellence. Backed by private equity, CraneWorks offers a fast-paced, performance-driven environment with significant opportunities for professional impact and advancement.

Job Summary

The Training Director is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all training and development programs for CraneWorks. This role ensures that all technicians are properly trained, certified, and compliant with industry regulations and company safety standards. The Training Director plays a critical role in promoting a culture of safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement across all locations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and continuously improve comprehensive training programs for crane technicians, parts personnel, and support staff.
• Develop standardized onboarding and ongoing training curriculum aligned with company procedures and industry best practices.
• Partner with OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) to develop and deliver manufacturer-specific training programs, ensuring alignment with equipment standards, updates, and best practices.
• Establish training benchmarks, competency assessments, and certification requirements.
• Ensure all training programs meet OSHA, ANSI, NCCCO, and other applicable regulatory standards.
• Develop programs to promote a strong safety culture and reduce incidents.
• Maintain accurate training records and ensure audit readiness.
• Oversee hands-on and classroom instruction for crane technicians, parts personnel, and basic crane knowledge such as signaling, load charts, and maintenance.
• Evaluate and update training materials based on new equipment and operational needs.
• Identify skill gaps and implement targeted training solutions.
• Train and mentor branch-level trainers and mentors.
• Support career progression pathways for all staff.
• Track training effectiveness and safety metrics.
• Use data and feedback to improve programs.
• Work with Operations, Safety, HR, and Branch Managers to align training initiatives.
• Develop and implement e-training courses in an internal Learning Management System to subsidize face-to-face training classes.
• Travel to branches and locations throughout the CraneWorks network to conduct training classes and work hand-on with front-line employees.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned to support departmental and organizational objectives.
  
  

Core Competencies

• Champions a safety-first culture across all operations.
• Deep understanding of OSHA, ANSI, and industry-specific regulations.
• Ability to translate safety requirements into practical training.
• Strong knowledge of electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic theory, with a specialized focus on cranes, rigging, load charts, load-bearing pressures, and safe lifting practices.
• Ability to design structured, scalable training programs.
• Capable of delivering both classroom and field-based instruction.
• Strong ability to communicate effectively with executives, field teams, and regulators.
• Ability to influence to gain buy-in across all levels of the organization.
• Adapts quickly to new equipment, regulations, or business needs. Bottom of Form
  
  

Experience

• 7–10 years of experience in crane or heavy equipment industry.
• NCCCO or NCCER certification(s) preferred.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA and safety standards.
• Leadership and program management experience.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be considered.
  
  

Physical & Environmental Requirements And ADA Compliance

This position regularly operates in office, shop and field environments and travel frequently. Employees must be able to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Frequent computer use including typing and viewing screens.
• Occasional walking in office and industrial environments.
• Ability to lift up to 10 pounds occasionally.
• Use of required PPE in operational environments.
• Exposure to noise, temperature changes, and equipment during site visits.
• Compliance with OSHA and company safety standards.
• The Company will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.
• Standard business hours with occasional extended hours during month-end close, audits, or peak operational periods.
  
  

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Dental insurance
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Referral program
• Professional development assistance
  
  

CraneWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. CraneWorks is committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.