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Professional Development Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

The Learning & Development Professional will be the primary architect and executor of learning at SME. This is a high-ownership, entrepreneurial role: you'll build and improve programs largely on ...

Sales Professional

Detroit, MI · On-site

$90K - $145K/yr

A commitment to continuous learning and professional development. * Strong organisational and time management skills. Previous sales or insurance experience is beneficial but not required. We value ...

Sales Professional

Detroit, MI · On-site

$90K - $145K/yr

A commitment to continuous learning and professional development. * Strong organisational and time management skills. Previous sales or insurance experience is beneficial but not required. We value ...

Development Associate

Detroit, MI · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Scholarships and paid professional development * Wellness Spending Account * Cellphone Reimbursement * Mental Health Reimbursement * $2,000 annual HRA and HSA contribution * Free catered lunches ...

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Professional Development information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$37.6K

$73.8K

$115.8K

How much do professional development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional development in Detroit, MI is $73,793.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $101,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is professional development?

Professional development refers to the ongoing process of acquiring new skills, knowledge, and experience to enhance one's career performance and growth. It typically includes activities such as attending workshops, seminars, conferences, pursuing advanced degrees, or completing certifications. The goal of professional development is to keep professionals up-to-date with industry trends, improve job performance, and help them achieve career advancement. Many employers encourage or require professional development to ensure their workforce remains competitive and effective.

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 principles, curriculum design, and instructional strategies, often supported by a degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS), e-learning authoring tools, and relevant certifications such as CPLP or ATD are typically required. Strong communication, facilitation, and organizational skills help you effectively engage participants and manage multiple training initiatives. These skills are crucial for designing impactful development programs that enhance employee performance and support organizational growth.

How do professionals in a professional development role typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

Professionals in a Professional Development role often work closely with HR, department managers, and team leaders to identify training needs and design effective learning programs. They regularly consult with subject matter experts to tailor content relevant to specific teams and may facilitate cross-departmental workshops or initiatives. This collaborative approach ensures that development programs are aligned with organizational goals and that employees at all levels receive the support they need to grow and succeed.

What is the difference between Professional Development vs Training?

AspectProfessional DevelopmentTraining
PurposeEnhances overall skills, knowledge, and career growthProvides specific skills for a particular task or job
DurationOngoing, long-termShort-term, focused
CredentialsMay lead to certifications or qualificationsUsually results in a certificate of completion
Work EnvironmentApplicable across various roles and industriesSpecific to job requirements

While both Professional Development and Training aim to improve skills, Professional Development focuses on long-term growth and career advancement, whereas Training provides targeted skills for immediate job needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Development jobs in Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Development jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Professional Development jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Professional Development jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Professional Development jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Professional Development jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Professional Development jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Professional Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Professional Development job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,793 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Learning and Development Professional

SME

Plymouth, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

At SME, we believe our people are our greatest asset and we're looking for someone who shares that conviction enough to act on it independently. The Learning & Development Professional will be the primary architect and executor of learning at SME. This is a high-ownership, entrepreneurial role: you'll build and improve programs largely on your own initiative, influence without direct authority, and thrive in an environment where you define the roadmap rather than follow one.
You'll partner with other leaders to understand what the business needs, then design, build, and deliver solutions yourself. If you do your best work when given clear goals, autonomy, and the trust to figure out the "how," then this role was made for you.
This position is based in our Plymouth, Michigan headquarters office.
Responsibilities:
  • Independently assess organizational learning needs and develop an annual L&D strategy and calendar with minimal direction
  • Design, build, and maintain course content from scratch, including e-learning modules, facilitator guides, job aids, and assessments using available tools and resources
  • Manage vendor and external training relationships as needed, including selection, contracting, and evaluation
  • Proactively identify gaps in the current learning ecosystem and propose solutions before being asked
  • Coordinate and facilitate biweekly new hire orientation sessions, ensuring a consistent, engaging, and impactful onboarding experience
  • Serve as the primary administrator and subject matter expert for the Schoox Learning Management System (LMS), including course management, assignments, and reporting.
  • Lead, support, and continuously improve our internal professional development programs including offsite trips
  • Partner with service group leaders to identify learning needs and develop customized learning materials, resources, and training solutions
  • Collaborate with internal leaders to create and deliver relevant, high-quality learning content
  • Track participation, outcomes, and feedback to assess effectiveness and drive continuous improvement
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to leaders on learning strategy, workforce development, and skill-building initiatives
  • Help lead succession planning for the organization
  • Support broader HR initiatives related to talent development, engagement, and organizational effectiveness

Requirements:
  • Experience with instructional design or e-learning authoring tools such as articulate, rise, etc.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage a full L&D function with minimal oversight and peer support
  • Strong self-directed project management; able to move from idea to execution without requiring frequent check-ins
  • Demonstrated experience managing and administering a learning management system (Schoox preferred)
  • Strong facilitation and presentation skills, with experience leading sessions for diverse audiences
  • Ability to bring vision and think strategically while remaining hands-on and execution-focused
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple programs and priorities simultaneously
  • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Education, Business, or a related field
  • A minimum of 5 years of highly autonomous experience in learning & development, organizational development or talent management

SME's Core Values:
  • Honesty and Integrity
  • Respect
  • Selfless Service
  • Teamwork
  • Practical Solutions

Benefits:
At SME, we believe that taking care of our employees is the cornerstone of our success. Our commitment to your well-being goes beyond a job - it's about helping you thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a benefits package that is not simply meeting an expectation, but a key component of your overall job satisfaction.
SME offers its employees:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits after 30 days of employment
  • SME covers the premium cost of medical insurance for employees and their families
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Yearly profit-sharing contributions to 401(k)
  • Yearly performance bonuses
  • Annual wage evaluations
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Competitive Paid Time Off
  • Volunteer Time Off

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.