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Workforce Development Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Workforce Development Manager information

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$10.7K

$78.1K

$152.6K

How much do workforce development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development manager in Illinois is $78,146.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a workforce development manager?

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 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 Illinois?

The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development Manager jobs in Illinois?

For Workforce Development Manager jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Workforce Development Manager jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Workforce Development Manager jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Workforce Development Manager jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Workforce Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Workforce Development Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,146 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

WIOA Case Manager (Workforce Development)

Lawrence Hall

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Who we are
With over 150 years of experience, Lawrence Hall provides a wide range of therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to Chicagoland youth, families, and communities affected by lasting trauma. We foster healing and growth through empowerment, respect, safety, and teamwork.
Our Workforce Development program supports career development for young adults experiencing racial, socioeconomic, and other disparities at every phase of their employment journey.
This role is part of the Cook County Workforce Partnership's Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program for out-of-school Chicago youth and young adults (ages 14-24). Through partnerships with local employers and organizations, we ease the path to employment for those with education gaps and prior justice involvement by providing free GED education, job training, placement, justice-involved record expungement, trauma coaching, and targeted career preparation.
About the Role
Be the catalyst that connects young people to their future. As a Case Manager in our WIOA program, you'll help youth overcome barriers, navigate education gaps, and build career confidence one step at a time. In this role, you'll be part of a passionate, field-based team helping out-of-school young people achieve stability, earn specialized credentials, and transition successfully into sustainable employment.
As a case manager, you will:
  • Build trusted relationships with youth through intake assessments and individualized achievement planning.
  • Assist youth with obtaining job placement
  • Provide vital life-domain coaching in employment, education, housing, and mental health.
  • Deliver one-on-one mentoring and positive behavior modeling in the field.
  • Coordinate with families, mentors, employers, and schools to build a strong wrap-around support network.
  • Navigate community resources to connect youth with critical, localized social service systems.
  • Maintain accurate, timely documentation across program funding data systems.

Who we're looking for
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in a human services field (or a High School Diploma/equivalent with 3 years of related youth-work experience).
  • Valid Illinois driver's license, reliable personal vehicle, and proof of auto insurance.
  • Strong organizational, time-management, and computer literacy skills.
  • Ability to pass required background checks and drug screening.
  • High emotional intelligence, empathy, and strong communication skills.

Preferred:
  • Prior experience working in trauma-informed environments with youth and families.
  • Familiarity with positive youth development frameworks and strength-based approaches.
  • Outreach or recruitment skills to engage eligible youth into community programs.

Additional Information
Schedule may include daytime, evenings, and occasional weekends. Field-based role with travel throughout the Chicago area in a personal vehicle. Combination of community-based work and on-site programming at our South Shore campus (1818 E 71st St) and other Lawrence Hall sites. Requires the ability to perform verbal and protective crisis interventions, including kneeling and returning to standing without assistance.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Salary: $42,800-$45,000/year, based on experience.
  • Average of 17-25 days PTO + 9 holidays
  • Medical insurance - HMO and PPO options
  • Dental insurance - HMO and PPO options
  • Vision insurance
  • 401(k) with up to 5% employer match and auto-vesting
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) - Medical and Dependent Care
  • Pre-tax Commuter benefits - Parking and Transit
  • 100% employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Children
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • 100% employer- paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and life resources
  • Wellness Reimbursement Program
  • Employee Referral Bonus up to $1,500
  • Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed employees
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness

How to Apply
We look forward to learning more about you!
Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application.
This position meets the FLSA requirements for Exempt
Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V