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Director Workforce Development Jobs in California

Workforce Job Developer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$40K - $75K/yr

GRID is an entrepreneurial, high-growth non-profit organization that provides direct solar installation and project development; clean mobility options; workforce training and service-learning ...

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Director Workforce Development information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Workforce Development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Workforce Development, you need expertise in program management, workforce planning, and labor market analysis, often backed by a bachelor's or master's degree in human resources, business, or a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), data analytics tools, and workforce development certifications such as CWDP is typically required. Strategic thinking, leadership, stakeholder engagement, and excellent communication are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for developing effective workforce strategies, aligning talent initiatives with organizational goals, and fostering partnerships that drive organizational and community success.

What are some common challenges faced by a Director of Workforce Development in aligning training programs with organizational goals?

A Director of Workforce Development often encounters the challenge of ensuring that training and development initiatives are closely aligned with both the immediate and long-term objectives of the organization. This requires staying updated on industry trends, regularly assessing workforce skill gaps, and collaborating with department leaders to anticipate future talent needs. Balancing budget constraints, rapidly changing technologies, and diverse learning preferences across the workforce can also present difficulties. Successful directors leverage data-driven strategies and maintain strong communication channels with stakeholders to overcome these challenges.

What does a Director of Workforce Development do?

A Director of Workforce Development leads efforts to design, implement, and oversee programs that enhance the skills and employability of a community's workforce. This role involves collaborating with businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies to identify workforce needs and create training programs that fill skill gaps. Directors often manage teams, secure funding, and evaluate the effectiveness of workforce initiatives. Their ultimate goal is to ensure that workers are prepared for current and future job opportunities, supporting both individual career growth and broader economic development.

What is the difference between Director Workforce Development vs Workforce Development Coordinator?

AspectDirector Workforce DevelopmentWorkforce Development Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor’s degree often required; advanced degrees preferred; experience in workforce programsAssociate or bachelor’s degree; relevant experience in workforce or community programs
Work EnvironmentLeadership role overseeing teams and programs; strategic planningOperational role supporting program implementation; administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, non-profits, educational institutionsCommunity organizations, government offices, training providers

The Director Workforce Development typically holds a higher-level leadership position, focusing on strategic planning and overseeing workforce programs. The Workforce Development Coordinator handles day-to-day program operations and supports implementation. Both roles are essential in workforce development initiatives but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Workforce Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Director Workforce Development jobs in California? For Director Workforce Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Workforce Development jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Director Workforce Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Director Workforce Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Director Workforce Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Director Workforce Development job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 12% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Adjunct Professor (contract) -Mentorship & Workforce Leadership Academy

Adjunct Professor (contract) -Mentorship & Workforce Leadership Academy

Adriana's Insurance

Irvine, CA

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

About the Academy

The Mentorship & Workforce Leadership Academy is a sponsored, elite workforce development and leadership program serving Latino and underserved young adults ages 18-25.

Our mission is to equip students with real-world professional skills, certifications, and career placement opportunities through structured mentorship, high-level instruction, and direct workforce pipelines.

The program blends the energy of a leadership fellowship with the outcomes of a workforce institute, focused on job readiness, certification completion, and long-term career growth.

Position Overview

We are seeking experienced Adjunct Professors to teach within our 12-week cohort-based academy and a 4-6-week certification extension tracks.

Adjunct Professors are industry professionals who design and deliver engaging, career-relevant curriculum aligned with our mission:
confidence, skill-building, certification attainment, and job placement.

This is a contract-based teaching opportunity ideal for professionals who are passionate about developing emerging talent and giving back through structured mentorship and workforce preparation.

Key ResponsibilitiesInstruction & Curriculum Delivery
  • Design and deliver a structured syllabus aligned with your subject matter expertise
  • Lead engaging, high-quality sessions twice weekly (90 minutes each)
  • Provide practical, career-focused instruction (not theory-heavy)
  • Assign and review light weekly assignments or exercises
  • Support students in applying skills to real-world career scenarios
Student Development
  • Foster a professional, supportive, and high-expectation learning environment
  • Encourage accountability, participation, and growth mindset
  • Provide constructive feedback and mentorship to students
  • Support certification readiness (if applicable to your track)
Collaboration & Reporting
  • Submit syllabus and learning objectives prior to cohort start
  • Track attendance and participation
  • Communicate any student concerns to program leadership
  • Participate in brief instructor alignment meetings if requested
Teaching Areas

We are currently seeking adjunct instructors in the following areas:

  • Public Speaking & Professional Presence
  • Sales & Customer Relations
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Communication & Conflict Resolution
  • Goal Setting & Execution Planning
  • Resume & Interview Preparation
  • Digital Marketing
  • AI & ChatGPT Workforce Applications
  • Accounting Fundamentals
  • HR Assistant Certification
  • Executive Assistant Training
  • Media/Production Skills

(Additional specialties welcomed.)

Student Population

Adjunct Professors will teach cohorts of approximately 20 students:

  • Ages 18-25
  • First-generation and underserved backgrounds
  • Career-seeking and workforce-focused
  • Enrolled in a sponsored leadership and certification academy
Compensation Structure

This is a flat-fee, per-cohort contract role.

Each cohort includes:

  • 12-week core program
  • 4-6 week certification extension (if applicable)

Compensation will be determined based on:

  • Subject matter expertise
  • Certification track
  • Session load
  • Experience level

Requirements

Qualifications
  • 3+ years professional experience in relevant field
  • Teaching, training, or mentorship experience preferred
  • Strong presentation and facilitation skills
  • Passion for workforce development and youth empowerment
  • Ability to teach in-person in Irvine, CA (required)
  • Commitment to professionalism, consistency, and student success

Preferred:

  • Prior adjunct or workshop facilitation experience
  • Experience working with first-generation or underserved populations
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus