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Workforce Development Manager Jobs in Rhode Island

Brownhealth

Program Coordinator

Providence, RI · On-site

$53K - $87K/yr

The Program Coordinator works under the general supervision and reports directly to the Program Manager of the Workforce Development Department. The Workforce Development Department provides multiple ...

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All JobsWorkforce Development JobsWorkforce Development Manager JobsWorkforce Development Manager Jobs in Rhode Island

Workforce Development Manager information

See Rhode Island salary details

$10.8K

$79K

$154.2K

How much do workforce development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development manager in Rhode Island is $78,975.00, 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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development Manager jobs in Rhode Island? For Workforce Development Manager jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Workforce Development Manager jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Workforce Development Manager jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Workforce Development Manager jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Workforce Development Manager job openings:
Workforce Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Workforce Development Manager job openings in Rhode Island as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 41% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,975 per year, or $38 per hour.

Student & Career Development Manager

Iyrs School Of Technology & Trades

Newport, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Organizational Overview
IYRS School of Technology & Trades is the premier marine trades and advanced technologies career school. Located in the heart of downtown Newport, RI, IYRS leads the region and nation in academic outcomes related to skilled-workforce training, retention, graduation, and employment rates.
IYRS School of Technology & Trades is the only accredited private non-profit career school in Rhode Island recognized by the Department of Education. Our 3-acre harbor-front campus houses amazing facilities with traditional and state-of-the-art equipment. Our mission is to empower students through immersive, hands-on innovative learning to realize their full potential. IYRS offers four certificate programs for people interested in careers in marine trades and advanced technologies. IYRS students are passionate about thinking and working through hands-on learning to develop skills and problem-solving abilities. IYRS was named a Best Maker School by Newsweek Magazine in 2021.
Position Summary
The Student & Career Development Manager oversees a comprehensive portfolio of student support, career development, externships, employer relations, and student engagement activities. This role supports students from enrollment through graduation and into employment by coordinating career readiness programming, experiential learning opportunities, student activities, and post-graduate outcomes tracking. The position works collaboratively with faculty, staff, and industry partners to enhance student persistence, engagement, and successful employment outcomes while maintaining accurate records and compliance with accreditation requirements.
Requirements
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Student Services & Support
  • Serve as a student support resource, assisting with student success, engagement, and transitions throughout enrollment, graduation, and post-graduation.
  • Collaborate with all departments to support orientations, campus events, and student initiatives.
  • Advocate for students by connecting them with appropriate campus resources and addressing concerns related to academics, career readiness, externships, and employment transitions.

Career Development & Employment Services
  • Assist in developing, implementing, and administering career development programming, including career planning, resume development, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
  • Provide individual career counseling to students and graduates, including assessment of interests, skills, and career goals.
  • Maintain and manage employment resources, industry job postings, and institutional job boards.
  • Track, verify, and document graduate employment outcomes in accordance with institutional policy and accrediting agency requirements, including ACCSC standards.

Employer & Industry Relations
  • Develop and maintain strategic relationships with employers and industry partners to support externships, job placement, and alumni employment opportunities.
  • Organize and facilitate employer engagement activities such as Career Day, networking events, Lunch & Learn sessions, and field trips.
  • Expand the institution's employer network through outreach, meetings, and ongoing relationship management.

Student Activities & Campus Engagement
  • Develop, coordinate, and maintain a Student Activities Program that supports student engagement, community building, and campus culture.
  • Create and manage the student activities calendar, planning and executing regular social, educational, and co-curricular events.
  • Coordinate student activities with Admissions, Student Services, Faculty, and Events staff to support orientations, open houses, and institutional events.

Student Housing Management
  • Oversee the day-to-day administration of student housing, including assignments, occupancy tracking, and coordination of move-in and move-out processes.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for housing-related concerns, addressing student issues and ensuring a safe, respectful, and well-managed living environment.
  • Coordinate with Facilities and other departments to ensure timely maintenance, cleanliness, and compliance with health and safety standards.
  • Maintain accurate housing records, policies, and communications, ensuring alignment with institutional expectations and student conduct guidelines.

Administration, Compliance & Reporting
  • Maintain accurate and complete student, externship, and employment records in compliance with institutional policies and accreditation standards.
  • Participate in institutional meetings including staff meetings, faculty council meetings, and Program Advisory Committee (PAC) meetings as required.

Qualifications
Required
  • Experience in marine or advance manufacturing industry, student services, career services, workforce development, or higher education administration.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with students, faculty, staff, and external partners.
  • Proven experience with record-keeping, databases, and reporting.

Preferred
  • Experience in an accredited postsecondary or career-focused educational institution.
  • Knowledge of externship or experiential learning program administration.
  • Experience with employer relations, job placement tracking, and student engagement programming.

Other Expectations
  • Each employee at IYRS is expected to demonstrate the following in the regular performance of their job duties:
  • Participation in requisite safety training for staff and students?
  • Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of IYRS
  • Adherence to IYRS's Code of Conduct and all policies and procedures
  • A positive attitude and willingness to contribute productively to the success of the team and the organization.
  • An understanding of and commitment to the IYRS's core competencies of accountability, collaboration, communication, institutional values, and service.
  • Active participation in efforts geared toward directing and improving the overall operations of IYRS, such as strategic planning, organizational development, and performance improvement.
  • Commitment to acting as an advocate and ambassador for IYRS.
  • Sense of ownership and pride in personal performance

Salary Range and Benefits
  • Annual salary $52,000 - $57,000
  • Paid holidays, vacation, personal, and sick time
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health Reimbursement Account and Health Savings Account
  • Retirement plan with company match

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