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Workforce Development Manager Jobs in California

Senior Development Manager

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Senior Development Manager Work Location: Anaheim, CA Term: Regular, Full-time Position Status ... workforce stands together to demonstrate our values for everyone who chooses to join the efforts.

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Workforce Development Manager information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$79.6K

$155.4K

How much do workforce development manager jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development manager in California is $79,588.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $103,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Workforce Development Manager, you need expertise in program management, workforce planning, and labor market analysis, typically supported by a degree in human resources, business, or a related field. Familiarity with workforce analytics platforms, learning management systems (LMS), and industry certifications like SHRM-CP or CPLP is often expected. Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, and strategic thinking are critical soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills are essential for designing effective workforce initiatives, aligning talent strategies with organizational goals, and fostering strong partnerships within the community.

How does a Workforce Development Manager typically collaborate with local businesses and training institutions to align workforce initiatives?

A Workforce Development Manager regularly engages with local employers, industry groups, and educational institutions to understand current labor market needs and develop targeted training programs. This collaboration often involves organizing roundtable discussions, conducting needs assessments, and forming partnerships to create internships or apprenticeships. By maintaining open communication channels and building strong relationships, the manager ensures that workforce initiatives are responsive to both employer demands and job seeker skill development, ultimately bridging the gap between training and employment opportunities.

What does a Workforce Development Manager do?

A Workforce Development Manager is responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing programs that help individuals develop the skills needed to succeed in the workforce. They collaborate with employers, educational institutions, and community organizations to identify skill gaps and create training initiatives. Their primary goal is to improve employment outcomes and ensure that the workforce meets the evolving needs of local industries. This role often involves managing budgets, evaluating program effectiveness, and staying updated on labor market trends.

What is the difference between Workforce Development Manager vs Career Counselor?

AspectWorkforce Development ManagerCareer Counselor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in human resources, social sciences, or related field; often certifications in workforce developmentBachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, or related field; certifications in career counseling
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, non-profits, educational institutions, corporate training programsEducational institutions, career centers, private practice, non-profits
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by organizations focusing on workforce training, employment services, and economic developmentCommonly employed by schools, colleges, and private career counseling services

While both roles focus on employment and career development, a Workforce Development Manager oversees programs that improve workforce skills at an organizational or community level, whereas a Career Counselor provides personalized guidance to individuals seeking career advice. The roles often overlap in credentials and work environments but differ in scope and target audience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Workforce Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development Manager jobs in California? For Workforce Development Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Workforce Development Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Workforce Development Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Workforce Development Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Workforce Development Manager job openings:

Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Regional Fire Training & Workforce Development Program Specialist)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Redding, CA โ€ข On-site

$111.90K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

This position will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The incumbent serves as a program specialist responsible to formulate and coordinate the planning, development, implementation, documentation, and delivery of the regional workforce development and training programs.
See Additional Information section for Regional Contact information.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-12: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GW-11 in federal service or equivalent. Examples of Specialized Experience are: Assisted with providing program leadership and direction for fire management training, development, and integration; Participated in the development of segments of an annual program of work for workforce development programs, including long and short range objectives, budgeting allotments, and the integration of fire management activities with other resources; Assisted in coordinating with federal and state wildland fire agencies to determine trends in wildland fire and aviation management training; and Performed administrative and human resource management functions, developing work improvement plans, and recommending personnel actions as necessary.
For the GW-13: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GW-12 in federal service or equivalent. Examples of Specialized Experience are: Provided program leadership and direction in fire management training and developing and integrating the overall program of work for workforce development programs; Participated in the development of an annual program of work for workforce development programs, including long and short range objectives, formulating policies and guidelines, budgeting allotments, and integrating fire management activities with other resources; Coordinated with federal and state wildland fire agencies to determine trends in wildland fire and aviation management training; and Performed the full range of administrative and human resource management functions, developing work improvement plans, evaluating performance, and recommending personnel actions as necessary.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary firefighter position under 5 USC 8336 (CSRS) and 8412(d) (FERS). Prior wildland firefighting experience is required. There is no age limit for entry into secondary positions. Firefighter retirement coverage of the incumbent depends upon his or her individual work history.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There are no educational requirements for this position.Employment Type: OTHER