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Professional Development Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Professional Development Specialist CodeHS is looking to hire a Professional Development Specialist to help lead professional development sessions for teachers, help create and maintain professional ...

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Professional Development Specialist information

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$33.5K

$81.6K

$141K

How much do professional development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional development specialist in the United States is $81,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Professional Development Specialist typically collaborate with educators and administrative staff to design effective training programs?

Professional Development Specialists regularly work alongside teachers, school leaders, and district administrators to assess professional learning needs and co-create tailored training initiatives. This collaboration often involves conducting needs assessments, gathering feedback on past sessions, and facilitating interactive workshops or coaching cycles. By maintaining open communication and aligning training goals with institutional priorities, specialists help ensure that professional development programs are relevant, practical, and lead to measurable improvements in teaching practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Professional Development Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Development Specialist, you need expertise in adult learning theory, curriculum design, and facilitation, often supported by a degree in education, human resources, or a related field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), e-learning software, and relevant certifications such as CPLP or ATD are commonly required. Strong communication, collaboration, and analytical skills help you engage participants and tailor programs effectively. These skills ensure the delivery of impactful training initiatives that drive organizational growth and employee success.

Are L&D jobs in high demand?

Learning and Development (L&D) roles, including positions like Professional Development Specialists, are in growing demand as organizations prioritize employee training and skills development. These jobs often require strong communication skills and familiarity with training tools or e-learning platforms, and demand varies by industry and region.

What is a professional development specialist?

A professional development specialist is a role focused on designing and implementing training programs to enhance employees' skills and knowledge. They often assess training needs, develop learning materials, and may use tools like learning management systems (LMS) to deliver education in various organizational settings.

What is the difference between Professional Development Specialist vs Training Coordinator?

AspectProfessional Development SpecialistTraining Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in education, HR, or related field; certifications like CPTD or SHRM-CP are commonUsually requires a bachelor’s degree; certifications are less common but may include training or HR certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in corporate, educational, or nonprofit settings focusing on employee growth and skill enhancementWorks in similar environments, organizing and coordinating training sessions and workshops
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by organizations aiming to develop employee skills and career pathsUsed by HR departments to manage training logistics and program delivery

While both roles focus on employee learning, a Professional Development Specialist designs and implements comprehensive development programs, whereas a Training Coordinator manages the logistics and delivery of specific training sessions.

What are the 5 P's of professional development?

The 5 P's of professional development are Purpose, Planning, Practice, Performance, and Progress. These elements help professionals, including development specialists, set goals, create strategies, and evaluate growth in their careers. Focusing on these areas supports continuous improvement and skill enhancement.

How do I become an L&D specialist?

To become a Learning and Development (L&D) specialist, typically a bachelor's degree in human resources, education, or a related field is required. Gaining experience in training, instructional design, or talent development, along with proficiency in learning management systems and relevant certifications like CPLP or ATD, can enhance prospects in this role.

What does a Professional Development Specialist do?

A Professional Development Specialist designs, implements, and evaluates training programs to help employees and organizations improve their skills and performance. They assess training needs, develop educational materials, lead workshops or seminars, and track the effectiveness of professional development initiatives. These specialists work in a variety of settings, including schools, corporations, and non-profit organizations, and play a key role in supporting ongoing learning and career growth.
More about Professional Development Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Development Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Professional Development Specialist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Development Specialist jobs? The most popular types of Development Specialist jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Development Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Development Specialist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Professional Development Specialist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,632 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Professional Development Specialist

Professional Development Specialist

SourcePro Search

San Francisco, CA

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

SourcePro Search has a fantastic opportunity for a Professional Development Specialist. Our client is a top ranked global law firm and this role will be based in the San Francisco office. This role offers a high base, excellent benefits and fantastic growth opportunities within a prominent law firm.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide support to all associate relations & morale initiatives including: Firm-wide Associates Committee, Talent Award Programs, Exceptional Teachers Award Process, exit interviews, new associate orientation, special retreats, training and morale events.
  • Supports all aspects of the associate & counsel evaluation processes.
  • Coordinate and facilitate the upward review process.
  • Monitor and report on population trends (arrivals, departures, attrition, etc.).
  • Monitor and report on trends in the market as it relates to performance reviews and feedback processes.
  • Support Diversity and Inclusion activities as needed.
  • Respond to inquiries regarding the Firm's policies and procedures as it relates to performance ratings, critical skills competencies and advancement. Manage other projects and initiatives of the Talent Team to foster a supportive, high performance culture.
  • Interface with other firm departments (practice group administration, diversity and inclusion, recruiting, human resources, etc.).

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Min of 2 years of professional development experience in a law firm or professional services environment
  • Advanced knowledge of Windows-based systems