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Priority Workforce Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Empire State

AVP, Workforce Development, OSWD

Albany, NY · On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

Co-lead the design, implementation, and ongoing management of high-priority workforce development initiatives to meet the evolving needs of New York employers and job seekers on behalf of the Office.

New York State

AVP, Workforce Development, OSWD

Albany, NY · Hybrid

$120K - $125K/yr

Co-lead the design, implementation, and ongoing management of high-priority workforce development initiatives to meet the evolving needs of New York employers and job seekers on behalf of the Office.

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How much do priority workforce jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for priority workforce in the United States is $76,417.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $92,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Priority Workforce employee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Priority Workforce employee, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions and meet productivity standards. Familiarity with warehouse management systems, inventory tracking software, and basic safety certifications (such as OSHA) are often required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication make candidates stand out in fast-paced environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient operations, safety, and positive team dynamics in staffing and warehouse roles.

How does a Priority Workforce team member typically interact with clients and candidates on a daily basis?

As a Priority Workforce team member, you can expect to engage regularly with both clients and candidates to understand their needs and ensure successful job placements. This often involves conducting interviews, coordinating job assignments, and maintaining clear communication with clients about workforce requirements. Collaboration with other team members is essential to match candidates to appropriate roles efficiently. The fast-paced environment encourages proactive problem-solving and strong organizational skills. Building and maintaining positive relationships is key to thriving in this role.

What is a Priority Workforce?

A Priority Workforce typically refers to a group of workers who are designated as essential or high-priority due to the critical nature of their roles in supporting business operations or public services. These may include employees in healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, or other sectors where their work is vital to the community or organization. Companies may give these workers special consideration for job assignments, training, or safety measures, especially during emergencies or times of high demand. The term can also refer to staffing agencies that specialize in rapidly providing qualified personnel to fill urgent workforce needs. Understanding who constitutes a priority workforce can help organizations better plan for resilience and continuity.

What is the difference between Priority Workforce vs Certified Nursing Assistant?

AspectPriority WorkforceCertified Nursing Assistant
CredentialsVaries by role, often includes staffing or healthcare certificationsMust have CNA certification and state license
Work EnvironmentHealthcare facilities, hospitals, clinics, sometimes in-home careHospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities
Employer & Industry UsageStaffing agencies, healthcare providers, hospitalsLong-term care facilities, hospitals, home health agencies

Priority Workforce roles often involve staffing and temporary healthcare positions, which may require various certifications depending on the role. Certified Nursing Assistants specifically provide direct patient care and must hold CNA certification. While both work in healthcare settings, CNAs focus on patient care, whereas Priority Workforce encompasses a broader range of staffing roles.

What cities are hiring for Priority Workforce jobs? Cities with the most Priority Workforce job openings:
What states have the most Priority Workforce jobs? States with the most job openings for Priority Workforce jobs include:
Priority Workforce jobs near you
Infographic showing various Priority Workforce job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,417 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

AVP, Workforce Development, OSWD

Empire State

Albany, NY • On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

*Applicants MUST submit a cover letter with resume to be considered.

*This position will require in-office presence. Hybrid work schedules may be possible based on specific job duties and consistent with ESD policy.

*Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Please contact Human Resources if you require accommodation.


BASIC FUNCTION:

In close partnership with the VP of Workforce Development, the AVP will assist in leading the design, implementation, and ongoing management of statewide priority workforce development projects and initiatives aligned with Empire State Development’s (ESD) priority industry sectors. The AVP is responsible for the direct oversight of OSWD’s grant programs, data reporting, staff management and the development of new strategies for industry-driven workforce development. This role ensures the creation of a robust pipeline of industry-driven programs to fulfill the job needs in high-growth, high-skilled target industry sectors, serving as the VP's supporting lead in statewide collaborative efforts.


WORK PERFORMED:

  • Support the VP in management of the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. Supervise staff and lead operations.
  • Co-lead the design, implementation, and ongoing management of high-priority workforce development initiatives to meet the evolving needs of New York employers and job seekers on behalf of the Office. This will include, but is not limited to, the development of program guidelines, direct engagement with grantees and stakeholders, and coordination with other ESD divisions and NYS agencies.
  • Co-lead the implementation of the One Network for Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships (ON-RAMP) centers.
  • Support internal planning and development of new strategies and programs for industry-driven workforce development initiatives.
  • Maintain working knowledge of New York State’s labor and industry trends and provide the VP with actionable insights within ESD’s priority sectors.
  • Advance best practices for workforce development programming that supports both job seekers and employers in ESD’s priority sectors.
  • Oversee the awarding and administration of OSWD grant funds, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and ESD policy.
  • Collaborate with Data and Metrics Manager to prepare and develop written reports and presentations on program activity around the state for internal and external audiences.
  • Author and/or lead the creation of high-level, public-facing and internal documents such as Requests for Information, Requests for Proposals, Directors Materials, Grant Disbursement Agreements, OSWD Annual Reports, and more as required.
  • Represent ESD and the VP in discussions with ESD regional offices, industry leaders, labor unions, and philanthropic organizations regarding regional skills needs.
  • Build and strengthen collaborations with state government agencies, Regional Economic Development Councils (REDCs), workforce development training providers, non-profits, and organizations providing wraparound services, and others to support development of opportunities for a skilled and diverse industry workforce across the state.
  • Draft a range of internal and external materials as required by the VP and ESD leadership including memos, briefings, press releases, reports, and more.
  • Oversee the development of marketing materials and coordinate with the Press Office and Web Team to ensure OSWD opportunities are clearly communicated to the public.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Travel throughout the state is required.


MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education Level required: Bachelor’s degree required

Experience required: At least 6 years of full-time experience in the area of workforce development, adult and continuing education, training or closely related field. Must have demonstrated experience in leading and managing workforce development program contracts (e.g., federally funded programs or WIOA program development and management). Experience with developing and implementing marketing and communication plans and material. Experience in supervision and team-based management and experience managing a diverse group of projects and staff.

Experience preferred: At least 8 years of full-time experience in the area of workforce development, adult and continuing education, training or closely related field.

Knowledge required: Knowledge of New York State government processes and issues relevant to economic and workforce development. Strong demonstrated written and oral communications and presentation skills. Ability to work independently and drive projects forward, manage under tight timelines, and work well in teams. Resourceful, organized and results oriented. Pro-active, collaborative and strategic. Comfortable interacting with high-level NYS officials and representing the agency externally.