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Workforce Development Manager Jobs in Elmhurst, IL

MXD

Business Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$95K/yr

S. manufacturing competitiveness through technology innovation, workforce development, and ... This role manages the end-to-end recruitment process-from pipeline development to prospect ...

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Workforce Development Manager information

See Elmhurst, IL salary details

$11K

$80.3K

$156.9K

How much do workforce development manager jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development manager in Elmhurst, IL is $80,320.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $104,600.00 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 popular job titles related to Workforce Development Manager jobs in Elmhurst, IL? For Workforce Development Manager jobs in Elmhurst, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Elmhurst, IL are hiring for Workforce Development Manager jobs? Cities near Elmhurst, IL with the most Workforce Development Manager job openings:
Workforce Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Workforce Development Manager job openings in Elmhurst, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,320 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Workforce Development Specialist

Workforce Development Specialist

Growing Home, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

DESCRIPTION
The Workforce Development Specialist is a frontline staff position responsible for the support of
Growing Home's Production Assistants (PAs) and Graduates. Two key functions of the position
include executing strategies to ensure job placement and Job retention for all program trainees.
In addition to job placement and job retention, the Workforce Development staff will provide
support to the overall execution of the Employment Training ("ET") program at Growing Home,
Inc. The Workforce Development Specialist reports to the Director and works closely with a
committed group of four other ET staff.
ABOUT GROWING HOME
Growing Home is a non-profit urban farm and social enterprise in the Englewood neighborhood
of Chicago. We serve our communities through local, healthy food access and robust workforce
development that has pathways to sustainable careers. Our 12-week person-centered paid
employment training program includes real work experience with transferable skills, a robust
classroom curriculum, and holistic case management and support - all in-house. Our training
program operates four cohorts over a calendar year.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and cultivate long-term professional relationships with employers, placement
    agencies, and temporary agencies to ensure consistent contact for job leads. Make
    presentations to businesses within the Chicagoland area to promote Growing Home's
    workforce development programs and to develop new employment opportunities for
    program PAs and graduates.
  • Identify job opportunities and match employer and participant's interests, needs, skills,
    and experience.
    • Make contact with employers (existing employer relationships, employer
      networks or associations, cold calls, online, and other workforce development
      programs)
    • Coordinate with PAs and graduates to schedule interviews
    • Follow-up on interviews with PAs and employer
  • Develop and implement strategies aimed at helping graduates keep their jobs, including
    but not limited to:
    • Weekly and Monthly in-person check-ins with jobholders
    • Assist job holders in emergency support services (such as car repairs or child
      care issues)
    • support hiring managers with on-the-job issues
  • Assist with employment readiness training, job search assistance, and obtaining
    permanent, unsubsidized jobs in high-demand industries.
  • Provide employment guidance and create individual employment plans that outline
    participants' employment objectives.
  • With the support of the ET team, Coordinate and host engagement events for PAs,
    graduates, and employer partners

Administrative:
  • Responsible for tracking and entering data in the Customer Relationship Management
    CRM (Salesforce) systems for all employment placements and retention data for PAs
    and graduates.
  • Manage the programs Employee Retention Incentive program that gives cash incentives
    to jobholders who successfully complete job retention at 30, 60, 90, and 180 days
  • Ensure compliance with grants, contracts, agency, and programmatic standards that are
    designed to meet PAs and graduates'' needs.
  • Maintain and submit, placement reports, employer partnership agreements, success
    stories, calendars/flyers of upcoming events, employment/employer leads, and other
    required information.
  • Observe and document participants' vocational assets and limitations, ability to engage
    in competitive employment, and need for and ability to benefit from supported
    employment, including natural supports.
  • Utilizes a team approach and works with other program staff in the planning and
    implementation of services.
  • Takes increasing responsibility for own professional development, utilizing supervision
    and other developmental opportunities within and outside the agency to enhance skills
    and understanding.
  • Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
  • Commitment to Growing Home's mission and core values
  • Demonstrated ability to build long-term relationships with a wide variety of
    stakeholders in a positive, engaging manner
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong organizational and
    time management skills, ability to lead projects, and problem-solve
  • Experience working directly with marginalized populations
  • Experience in classroom facilitation, skills training, and/or curriculum
    development
  • Strong computer skills, including using Microsoft Office (excel) and Google Docs.
  • Ability to work some evenings and weekends
  • Some travel for meetings will be required. Must have an aptitude and willingness to
    navigate public transportation throughout the greater Chicago-area, or a valid driver's
    license
  • The ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment
  • Must be able to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment

EDUCATION
Bachelor's degree preferred. At least two years of experience in workforce
development, Human Resources, sales, marketing, or a similar field
Equal Opportunity Employer
Growing Home is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal
opportunity employer. Growing Home does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national
origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, parental status, veteran status,
or any other protected status under applicable laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to
apply. If you are a qualified candidate with a disability, please email us at jobs@growinghomeinc.org.

Apply