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Workforce Development Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Workforce Development Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$9.6K

$70.3K

$137.3K

How much do workforce development manager jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development manager in Michigan is $70,289.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $91,500.00 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development Manager jobs in Michigan? For Workforce Development Manager jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Workforce Development Manager jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Workforce Development Manager jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Workforce Development Manager jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Workforce Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Workforce Development Manager job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,289 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Workforce Development Specialist 1

Goodwill Industries of Northern WI and Upper MI

Houghton, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Goodwill Industries of Northern WI and Upper MI is looking for a Workforce Development Specialist 1 in Houghton, MI.
This position is responsible for determining suitable employment consistent with clients desires, aptitudes, and physical, mental and emotional limitations; promoting and developing job openings and placing qualified applicants in employment settings; coaching and training persons with disabilities in community job sites.
Work Performed: Essential Functions:
1. Establish and develop contacts with local businesses/service organizations in order to promote and develop job openings. Communicate incentives for employers and services for the client.
2. Assist clients in placement efforts including aiding in application completion, developing interview skills, teaching job retention skills, promoting safe work habits and promoting client awareness of appropriate work attire and hygiene.
3. Assist in obtaining assessment information and conducting intake interviews to determine suitable employment consistent with the clients' desires, aptitudes, and physical, mental, and emotional limitations.
4. Responsible for supervision and vocational service coordination of program clients.
5. Assist with the facilitation and development of community-based worksites.
6. Teach training modules.
7. Coordinate, and supervise the vocational training programs.
8. Responsible for tracking clients' hours.
9. Responsible for maintaining appropriate records throughout job development consistent with the monitoring of the clients rehabilitation goals.
10. Maintain an open line of communication with funding sources.
11. Coordinate and monitor ongoing operations at community worksites.
12. Facilitate movement of clients into competitive employment upon completion of vocational training.
13. Responsible for supervision, payroll and management of processing work
and staff.
14. Responsible for coordination of services between retail operations and processing
General Duties:
1. Promote appropriate personal work ethics, attire and hygiene when working with clients, local businesses/service organizations and referring agencies.
2. Responsible for job coaching clients in community-based sites.
3. Assist in job modifications for clients as necessary.
4. Communicate with the employer on the work performed.
5. Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
6. Responsible for maintaining a clean work area.
7. Responsible for implementing safety practices.
8. Travel Time may be required.
Knowledge, Abilities & Skills:
1. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with program participants, referral sources, businesses and community organizations.
2. Understanding of vocational rehabilitation techniques and methods.
3. Ability to act as liaison between rehabilitation program participants and businesses to meet the expectations and needs of the program.
4. Leadership and supervisory skills to promote community cooperation and collaboration.
5. Ability to professionally represent to the community the mission, goals and objectives of Goodwill Industries.
Qualifications:
1. Associate Degree and experience or Bachelors Degree preferred.
2. Two or more years of work experience or related education.
3. Supervisory skills.