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Workforce Development Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

... and manages our most important strategic partnerships. As a leading member of our Strategy Team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping Autodesk's workforce development strategy and go-to-market ...

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Workforce Development Manager information

See Minnesota salary details

$10.8K

$79K

$154.3K

How much do workforce development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development manager in Minnesota is $78,984.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,900.00 and $102,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 Minnesota? The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development Manager jobs in Minnesota? For Workforce Development Manager jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Workforce Development Manager jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Workforce Development Manager job openings:
Workforce Development Supervisor

Workforce Development Supervisor

Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota

Rochester, MN โ€ข On-site

$61K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Goodwill Easter Seals Minnesota rating

3.7

Company rating: 3.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

639th of 689 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Position Summary:
The Workforce Development Supervisor (WDS) provides team development, supervision to program staff, and may also provide direct services to program participants. The WDS is responsible for assigning work, monitoring the day-to-day activities of staff, and ensuring the delivery of excellent services with the goal of achieving optimum outcomes for each participant. The WDS resolves problems and issues and ensures that positive working relationships with internal and external partners are maintained.
Day in the life: In a typical day, a Workforce Development Supervisor can expect to...
  • Staff Supervision: Provides direct supervision to assigned staff and engages, motivates, and inspires them to achieve desired results.
  • Program and Quality Assurance: Responsible for quality of services provided by assigned staff and is also accountable for assisting the Manager for the overall excellence and success of the assigned program area.
  • Team Development: Assists manager to build a cohesive, focused program team by providing consistent direction, support and encouragement to achieve desired program results.

Job Pay & Perks:
  • Pay range: $61,910 - $86,818 annually
  • This is a scheduled-hybrid role whose essential functions require work to be conducted at a physical location, which may include a GESMN or partner facility, at least two (2) days per week. The remaining days can be worked from the employee's home office or a designated community setting as directed by the manager.
  • Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota (GESMN) prioritizes work-life balance. We offer competitive pay, flexible hours, generous paid time off (PTO) program, competitive medical, dental and vision plans, employer-paid life insurance, 401(k) plan with employer match, and an employee discount!
  • Opportunities for career development and advancement

About You:
Required Knowledge & Skills:
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Efficient organizational and prioritization skills.
  • Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  • Knowledge of social service systems and supports such as, but not limited to: WIA, school systems, VRS, MFIP, MA, SNAP, Housing Supports, etc.
  • Familiarity with grants, funding sources and quality programs and services for person with barriers to employment.
  • Knowledge of plan development, goal writing, placement and case management techniques.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office software.
  • Ability to meet deadlines and achieve required outcomes.
  • Knowledge of effective service intervention strategies and techniques in program area.
  • This role requires a motor vehicle record (MVR) check(no major violations, not more than two (2) minor violations, and not more than one (1) accident in the past three years), and the ability to meet GESMN's authorized driver requirements, including:
    • Must have a valid driver's license
    • Must have proof of auto insurance with a minimum of $300,000 combined limit for bodily injury and property damage coverage.
    • Must be 21 years of age or older.

Prior Experience & Education:
  • 2-4 years of relevant experience required.
  • Associate or bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.

About Us:
Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that has been creating career possibilities together with partners since 1919. Many people know Goodwill stores, but don't know store proceeds support nearly 20 programs for job seekers to access resources and find careers that lead to advancement. Read more about us here.
Star Tribune Top Workplace 6 years running.
Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota (GESMN) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. GESMN will not discriminate against any employee or applicant based upon a person's race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, age, sexual or affectional orientation, gender identity, familial status, ancestry, local human rights commission activity, citizenship, genetic information, protected veteran or military status, or any other categories protected by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
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.