ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Director Workforce Development Jobs in Louisiana

YSS

Workforce & Economic Mobility Director

Iowa, LA · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

The Director of Workforce & Economic Mobility will lead the development of that future.This position provides strategic leadership for YSS's workforce development, career readiness, and economic ...

YSS

Workforce & Economic Mobility Director (56309)

Iowa, LA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Director of Workforce & Economic Mobility The Director of Workforce & Economic Mobility will lead ... Integrate workforce development into existing YSS programs and service models. * Develop innovative ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWorkforce Development JobsDirector Workforce Development JobsDirector Workforce Development Jobs in Louisiana

Director Workforce Development information

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 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 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.

Is workforce development a good career?

A career in workforce development, including roles like Workforce Development Director, involves coordinating training programs and employment initiatives to improve workforce skills. It offers opportunities in public and private sectors, often requiring strong communication, project management, and knowledge of labor market trends. The field can be rewarding for those interested in community development and economic growth.

What are the most commonly searched types of Workforce Development jobs in Louisiana?

The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Louisiana are:

What job categories do people searching Director Workforce Development jobs in Louisiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Workforce Development jobs in Louisiana are:

What cities in Louisiana are hiring for Director Workforce Development jobs?

Cities in Louisiana with the most Director Workforce Development job openings:

Director Workforce Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Workforce Development job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Workforce Development Specialist I

The Lighthouse for The Blind in New Orleans

New Orleans, LA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide vocational assessments, job readiness skills training, and job coaching to participants.

  • Develop and facilitate work-based learning experiences and support job development and placement efforts.

  • Engage with employers and community partners to create employment opportunities and participate in outreach activities.

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Job Summary:
The Workforce Development Specialist I (WDSI) is a vital position within the Workforce Development Department, providing vocational rehabilitation services through the Supported Employment - Individual Placement Model. Core responsibilities for this position include vocational assessments, teaching job readiness skills, job development/placement assistance, job coaching, development of Work Based Learning Experiences (WBLE), and extended follow-along services for adults. Additionally, the WDSI plays an integral role in providing Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) to high school juniors and seniors.
A successful WDSI develops relationships with local businesses, advocates with potential employers to facilitate job matches, engages in outreach events, communicates professionally in oral and written form, conducts compelling presentations, and manages time effectively. The ideal candidate is a teacher in practice, a cheerleader in spirit, and a coach at heart, demonstrating a passion to support people with disabilities (PWD) to success in the workforce.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Successfully develop strategic partnerships with businesses and employment stakeholders that advance employment opportunities for PWD across the service region.
  2. Assist PWD with developing pre-employment skills, such as resume writing, application completion, appropriate dress and hygiene, interview skills, and workplace etiquette.
  3. Collaborate with the WD team to implement the vocational rehabilitation component of the Pathways to Success (PTS) Disability Innovation Fund demonstration project to drive program success and optimize positive outcomes for participants. Support the development of work-based learning experiences (WBLE) for participants within the Lighthouse and in businesses across the service region.
  4. Provide direct services through State Vocational Rehab and PTS programs, which include conducting evaluations, supporting Individualized Plans for Employment, job developing, job readiness skills training, job coaching, offering ongoing job support, developing WBLE, and delivering Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).
  5. Manage a robust caseload of participants who are current job seekers with disabilities. Meet required departmental standards for successful client placements.
  6. Collaborate with employers to create unique job opportunities specific to client goals, interests, and abilities.
  7. Engage with potential employers to solicit interest in strong job candidates. Participate in outreach and recruitment activities by coordinating and attending job fairs and related activities.
  8. Document all job development and participant engagement activities. Track caseload movement weekly by procedure, recording all activities in Salesforce and on state forms. Documentation must be clear, concise, and factual, while maintaining a tone that is professional and unbiased.
  9. Administer Pre-ETS to teens according to Lighthouse Louisiana's strategic goals in compliance with Louisiana Rehabilitation Services requirements.
  10. Continuously strive to enhance knowledge and skills that support the success of WD programs and participant outcomes.
  11. Collaborate with the Workforce Development Director to create and implement training programs that advance the field for vocational rehabilitation professionals.
  12. Participate in education and advocacy events to promote inclusion for PWD. Engage with the community at outreach events, representing the Lighthouse with superior polish and professionalism.
  13. Foster a team environment with effective communication and a coordinated approach to providing services. Follow all Lighthouse policies and standard operating procedures.
  14. Maintain confidentiality of information and material at the highest standards.
  15. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements
JOB QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:
  1. Education: Bachelor's degree in education, social services, vocational rehabilitation, or related field required. Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) credential required or willingness to attain CESP certification within one year of employment.
  2. Special Knowledge/Skills: Knowledge of disability and factors that affect successful employment. Ability to manage a caseload and flex time to achieve all weekly job tasks. Ability to effectively assess consumer strengths and weaknesses to determine a plan for overcoming challenges to employment stability. Effective teaching skills with ability to assess and adjust coaching to motivate and optimize progress. Strong troubleshooting skills. Superior oral and written communication skills. Ability to develop and perform professional presentations. Proficient in the use of MS Office tools.
  3. Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of work experience supporting individuals with disabilities. At least 1 years' experience with case management. Experience working with teens preferred. Experience completing assessments and drafting professional reports preferred. Stable employment history required.
  4. Supervisory Responsibility: None.
  5. Physical: High energy and stamina. Able to effectively perform the specified duties. Ability to travel throughout the region to provide services across southeast Louisiana. Have the physical ability to perform tasks requiring bending, lifting, stooping, reaching overhead, and other tasks. Ability to stand/sit for prolonged periods while demonstrating or modeling training techniques with adaptation as needed.
  6. Personality Traits: Professional, self-motivated, enthusiastic, confident, dependable, well-organized, flexible, able to motivate others, personable, well spoken, patient, punctual, adaptive, creative, confident, and a positive thinker. Able to work both independently and as a collaborator. Capable of preserving confidential and sensitive information.
  7. Work Conditions: Office and community setting with weekly travel within the service region. Must be adaptable to a variety of work environments.
  8. Work Schedule: 40 hours per week. May require an occasional evening, weekend, or holiday work to support unique consumer needs. Weekly work schedule may fluctuate.
  9. Pre-employment testing required: Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results from background check and drug testing. Must also meet federal suitability requirements.
  10. Must have a valid driver's license with a safe driving record. Must have a reliable vehicle and be able to drive long distances.

This job description does not imply that these are the only duties to be performed. The incumbent in this position will perform such other tasks as may be required for the effective operation of the Division/Department upon request by the employee's supervisor.
Accomplishments in these areas of responsibility will be the basis of the employee's evaluation, continuation of employment and change in compensation.
At Lighthouse Louisiana, we are committed to the principles of equal employment. We comply with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities, and all other employment laws and regulations. We are dedicated to the fulfillment of this policy regarding all aspects of employment including, but not limited to recruiting, hiring, placement, transfer, training, promotion, rates of pay (and other compensation), termination, and all other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment. In addition, we take affirmative actions to recruit, hire, promote and retain veterans.
Salary Description
22.00 24.00 hourly

Apply