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Professional Wioa Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Professional Wioa information

What is the difference between Professional Wioa vs Career Counselor?

AspectProfessional WioaCareer Counselor
CredentialsTypically requires WIOA certification, relevant education in workforce developmentOften holds degrees in counseling, psychology, or related fields; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentWorkplaces include workforce agencies, government offices, and community centersWorkplaces include schools, private practices, and career centers
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily employed by government workforce agencies and employment programsEmployed by educational institutions, private firms, or as independent consultants

Professional Wioa specialists focus on workforce development and employment services within government programs, often requiring specific certifications. Career Counselors provide guidance on career planning, often with counseling degrees. While both roles assist individuals with employment, their work environments and credentials differ, making each suited for different client needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional WIOA specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional WIOA Specialist, you need expertise in workforce development, case management, and knowledge of employment and training programs, often supported by a relevant degree or workforce certification. Familiarity with case management software, federal reporting systems, and database tools like Salesforce or Efforts to Outcomes (ETO) is common. Exceptional interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help build rapport with clients and coordinate resources effectively. These skills ensure eligible individuals receive the guidance and support needed to achieve sustainable employment outcomes and meet program compliance.

What is a professional WIOA?

Professional WIOA jobs refer to positions supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), a federal program designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services. WIOA aims to connect individuals, especially those facing barriers to employment, with high-quality jobs and careers. Professionals working under WIOA may include career counselors, case managers, and workforce development specialists who assist clients in job placement, skills training, and navigating resources. These roles are often found in government agencies, non-profits, and workforce development boards.

What are some common challenges faced by professional WIOA specialists when supporting job seekers, and how can these challenges be addressed?

Professional WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) Specialists often encounter challenges such as helping clients with limited work experience, addressing barriers like transportation or childcare, and staying up-to-date with local labor market trends. To address these, specialists collaborate closely with community organizations, leverage available resources, and maintain ongoing communication with employers. Building strong relationships with both job seekers and local partners is crucial for effectively navigating these challenges and ensuring positive employment outcomes.
What job categories do people searching Professional Wioa jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Wioa jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Professional Wioa jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Professional Wioa job openings:
Professional Wioa jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Wioa job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

SENIOR DIRECTOR FOR ADULT EDUCATION AND LITERACY

State of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 57498
Opening Date: 07/15/2026
Closing Date: 07/29/2026
Agency: Illinois Community College Board
Salary: $70,000.00 - $77,000.00
Category: Full Time 
County: Sangamon or Cook
Number of Vacancies: 1

A resume is required to evaluate your qualifications and skills as part of your application.  Please attach a DETAILED Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application if you decide to provide one.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

The Illinois Community College Board

Illinois community colleges serve almost 600,000 residents each year in credit, noncredit, and continuing education courses. Illinois is home to 45 colleges in 39 community college districts which provide high quality, accessible, cost-effective educational opportunities to the entire state.

ICCB offers an excellent benefits package, including competitive employee insurance premiums as well as flexible options for medical coverage. Vision insurance is included at no cost and dental insurance is available. Eligible employees participate in the State University Retirement System, which offers medical insurance upon retirement. Tuition waivers are offered for continued educational goals, and a generous paid time off package includes paid holidays, earned vacation, sick, and personal time.


For more information on benefits visit: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/StateEmployee/Pages/default.aspx.

Senior Director for Adult Education and Literacy

This position provides leadership and overall administration of the Adult Education and Literacy Division. The position is responsible for overall leadership, policy direction, and administrative oversight for Illinois' adult education system. The Senior Director is responsible for the implementation and administration of federal and state adult education programs, including Adult Basic Education (ABE), Adult Secondary Education (ASE), English Language Acquisition (ELA), Integrated Education and Training (IET), Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE), and related workforce development initiatives.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervises assigned staff, providing direction and support to ensure high-quality data analysis, reporting, and continuous professional development.

Program Administration and Oversight
  • Serve as the primary liaison to federal departments overseeing adult education as well as local adult education program personnel including deans, directors, instructors, students, and Area Planning Councils by providing guidance on program requirements, policies, and state and federal initiatives.
  • Provide leadership, supervision, and performance oversight for Adult Education staff.
  • Administer state and federal Adult Education grant programs and ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and program requirements.
  • Oversee the statewide Adult Education professional development system, including the planning, implementation, and evaluation of training and technical assistance activities.
  • Coordinate intergovernmental agreements, grant agreements, and program budget oversight activities in collaboration with the ICCB Division of Grant Management.
  • Oversee the State Title II Management Information System and ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state data collection, reporting, and accountability requirements.
  • Oversee the Illinois Community College Board Adult Education course approval process.
Strategic Planning and Policy Implementation
  • Maintain expertise in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and related legislation; lead implementation efforts and contribute to the development and maintenance of the Unified State Plan.
  • Represent Title II Adult Education in coordination with WIOA Core Partners, the WIOA Technical Assistance Team, and statewide workgroups related to professional development, performance accountability, referrals, and other assigned initiatives.
Reporting, Data, and Program Evaluation
  • Develop, review, and submit required state and federal reports related to Adult Education programs and outcomes.
  • Prepare and disseminate reports, analyses, and informational materials regarding Adult Education programs, services, and outcomes.
  • Provide strategic leadership for the continuous improvement of Adult Education data systems, data quality, reporting processes, and performance accountability measures.
Advisory Groups and Stakeholder Engagement
  • Establish, convene, and oversee the Adult Education Advisory Council.
Program Development and Special Initiatives
  • Research, develop, and promote effective practices and programs that support learner transitions to postsecondary education, workforce training, and employment.
Grant Planning and Approval Processes
  • Develop and review annual Adult Education Area Plans and Grant Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
Other Responsibilities
  • Serve as a liaison between internal departments, state agencies, and external partners to promote effective communication, collaboration, and alignment with organizational goals.
  • Perform other duties as assigned, which may include travel.
Leadership Responsibilities as Identified Under WIOA Section 223
  • Coordinate the statewide instruction of Adult Education and Literacy.
  • Monitor programs to ensure compliance with federal and state legislation and regulations.
  • Oversee the regional adult education center and other leadership activities.
  • Provide training as needed to Adult Education programs relative to instruction, standards, etc.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree.
  • A total of three (3) years (36 months) in education, training and/or work experience English language acquisition, adult basic and secondary education, or related work. (Note: Master's Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience.)
  • Demonstrated oral and written communication, human relations, and analytical skills.
  • Established effective working relationships with co-workers, officials, and colleagues.
  • Demonstrated experience developing and delivering presentations, training, or technical information to diverse audiences, including administrators, instructional staff, program providers, or other stakeholders.
  • Two years' supervisory experience.
Additional Desired Qualifications
  • Master's degree.
  • Seven years' experience in higher education administration, community college academics, English language acquisition and adult education instruction or administration or related experience.
  • Experience with, or adequate knowledge of, the Illinois Community College System and Adult Education and Literacy System.
State Universities Civil Service System Title

Program Director - 5003

Work Hours: Monday - Friday
Headquarter Location: 401 E Capitol Ave, Springfield, Illinois, 62701
Work County: Sangamon or Cook
Agency Contact: Brianna Dennis
Email: iccb.careers@illinois.gov
Phone #: 217-785-0123

Important Information for Applicants:

Applicants are responsible for submitting a complete application. All required sections and application questions must be fully completed. Applications with missing information or unanswered questions may be considered incomplete and will not be considered for employment. 

All ICCB staff are employees of the State of Illinois. Our employment practices are governed by the Statutes and Rules of the State Universities Civil Service System (SUCSS). Within SUCSS, each position is assigned to a civil service job classification or exemption that carries its own specific and distinct set of minimum qualifications. Those job qualifications are used in evaluating each applicants' educational background and experience in order to determine their eligibility for employment. Employment applications filed with other State agencies or employment systems are not acceptable applications for employment with this office.

The Civil Service examination for this classification is based on your application materials and responses to the supplemental questions. No participation other than submission of applicant materials are required from applicants that qualify to take the exam. If you meet the minimum required qualifications for this position, you will receive a score calculated based on your education and experience, and your name will be placed on the active employment register by exam score. After the application deadline, the names within the top three scores will be referred to the department for interview. Register will be cleared after position is filled.

This position requires a criminal background investigation and, if applicable, an employment history review. Any offer of employment is contingent upon successfully passing these checks. Employment may not commence until the results of the background investigation have been reviewed and approved by Human Resources.

Please note: ICCB does not participate in E-Verify. 

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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