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Workforce Development Manager Jobs in Lexington, KY

Surge Staffing

Business Development Manager

Frankfort, KY

$55K - $60K/yr

The Business Development Manager is responsible for identifying, prospecting and securing business ... workforce solutions. We take priority in building personal, long-term partnerships with our clients ...

Surge Staffing

Business Development Manager

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

The Business Development Manager is responsible for identifying, prospecting and securing business ... workforce solutions. We take priority in building personal, long-term partnerships with our clients ...

Zekelman Industries

HR Generalist

Richmond, KY · On-site

You will play a key role in supporting recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, policy administration, and workforce development initiatives while helping strengthen the ...

Zekelman

HR Generalist

Richmond, KY

You will play a key role in supporting recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, policy administration, and workforce development initiatives while helping strengthen the ...

Astemo Ltd

Human Resources Manager

Berea, KY · On-site

... and workforce development to ensure the facility meets business goals while maintaining a safe ... Oversee performance management programs and leadership development initiatives. * Lead and ...

Astemo

Human Resources Manager

Berea, KY · On-site

... and workforce development to ensure the facility meets business goals while maintaining a safe ... Oversee performance management programs and leadership development initiatives. * Lead and ...

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All JobsWorkforce Development JobsWorkforce Development Manager JobsWorkforce Development Manager Jobs in Lexington, KY

Workforce Development Manager information

See Lexington, KY salary details

$10.9K

$80.2K

$156.5K

How much do workforce development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development manager in Lexington, KY is $80,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,700.00 and $104,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a workforce development manager do?

A workforce development manager oversees programs that improve employee skills and align workforce capabilities with organizational goals. They analyze labor market trends, coordinate training initiatives, and collaborate with community partners to address skill gaps, often using data and industry certifications to measure success.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Workforce Development Manager typically does not earn $4,000 weekly without a degree, as this role often requires relevant experience and education. However, high-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree include certain sales positions, real estate brokers, commercial pilots, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers with experience, especially in self-employment or entrepreneurial settings. These roles often rely on skills, certifications, or licenses rather than formal degrees.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For a Workforce Development Manager, salaries reaching $300,000 annually are uncommon and typically occur with extensive experience, senior leadership roles, or in large organizations. High-paying roles in related fields may include executive positions such as Chief Human Resources Officer or Director of Organizational Development, which require advanced skills, certifications, and strategic responsibilities.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

By 2030, roles heavily reliant on manual labor or routine tasks, such as data entry clerks and assembly line workers, are expected to decline due to automation and AI advancements. Workforce Development Managers should focus on reskilling employees for technology-driven roles and developing skills in areas like digital literacy, problem-solving, and adaptability to prepare for evolving job markets.
What job categories do people searching Workforce Development Manager jobs in Lexington, KY look for? The top searched job categories for Workforce Development Manager jobs in Lexington, KY are:
What cities near Lexington, KY are hiring for Workforce Development Manager jobs? Cities near Lexington, KY with the most Workforce Development Manager job openings:
Workforce Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Workforce Development Manager job openings in Lexington, KY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,153 per year, or $38.5 per hour.
Director for Research and Economic Dev

Director for Research and Economic Dev

Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

TITLE: Director for Research and Economic Development

DEPARTMENT: College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources / Land Grant Program

REPORTS TO: Dean, College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources

CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD

STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week

LOCATION: On-Site Main Campus

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Dean, College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources, the Director for Research and Economic Development provides strategic leadership in advancing research partnerships, economic development initiatives, and external engagement activities for the College and Land Grant Programs. The position is responsible for developing and sustaining collaborations with public and private sector partners, including industry, government, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions to support applied research, workforce development, and experiential learning opportunities.

The Director leads efforts to strengthen Kentucky State University’s research enterprise and economic development impact with particular emphasis on agriculture, food systems, natural resources, aquaculture, equine industries, and related sectors. This position exercises independent judgment in developing partnerships, managing complex initiatives, and aligning external engagement strategies with institutional priorities. This role requires a regular, reliable, and consistent on-campus presence to effectively perform leadership, coordination, and stakeholder engagement responsibilities and is not suitable for remote work except as approved in accordance with University policy.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Provides strategic leadership for research development, external partnerships, and economic development initiatives aligned with the College and Land Grant Program mission.
  • Develops and implements strategies to establish and expand partnerships with private industry, public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions.
  • Builds and manages a portfolio of research and economic development initiatives, including planning, budgeting, implementation, logistics, risk management, and reporting.
  • Cultivates and sustains relationships with stakeholders in agriculture, food and beverage industries (including bourbon and spirits), equine industries, natural resources, and related sectors.
  • Facilitates collaboration between University researchers, faculty, students, and external partners to support applied research, innovation, and workforce development initiatives.
  • Coordinates cross-functional project teams and ensures alignment of deliverables, timelines, and resource allocation with strategic objectives.
  • Provides leadership in developing experiential learning opportunities, including internships, summer programs, and workforce development initiatives across the College and Land Grant Programs.
  • Supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of youth programs, workforce development initiatives, and extension-related training activities.
  • Prepares annual reports and performance summaries, including evaluation of program outcomes, stakeholder engagement, and initiative effectiveness.
  • Analyzes program data and identifies opportunities for continuous improvement and expanded impact.
  • Serves as liaison to internal and external stakeholders, including industry partners, government agencies, community organizations, and professional associations.
  • Represents the College and Land Grant Programs at meetings, conferences, events, and stakeholder engagement activities.
  • Provides training and support materials for extension associates, youth programs, and workforce development initiatives.
  • Maintains a complex schedule of engagements, meetings, and project activities while ensuring effective prioritization and execution of responsibilities.
  • Exerts independent judgment in resolving complex issues related to partnerships, program development, and project execution.
  • Maintains a regular, reliable, and consistent on-campus presence to effectively perform the essential functions of the position.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Knowledge of research administration, economic development, and industry partnership development.
  • Knowledge of agricultural systems, food and beverage industries, equine industries, natural resources, or related sectors.
  • Knowledge of program development, project management, and evaluation methods.
  • Strong ability to develop and sustain partnerships with public and private sector organizations.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and strategic planning skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple complex projects and initiatives simultaneously.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies including industry leaders, government officials, faculty, staff, students, and community stakeholders.
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment and make decisions in complex and dynamic environments.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and project management tools.
  • Ability to prepare reports, analyze program data, and support performance evaluation.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

  • This position has supervisory responsibility for professional staff, project personnel, and assigned programmatic initiatives.


OTHER DUTIES:

  • The position will conduct other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Master’s degree from an accredited institution in Public Administration, Business Administration, Economic Development, Community Development, Agricultural Economics, Education Leadership, Sociology, or a closely related field is required.
  • Doctoral degree is preferred.
  • Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, research administration, public-private partnerships, community development, or a related field is preferred.
  • Experience in higher education, extension programming, or applied research environments is strongly preferred.



Licensing and Certifications:

  • Valid drivers’ license.



WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Work requires frequent travel, including in-state, out-of-state, and occasional national travel via automobile or air transportation.
  • Work may involve exposure to varying environmental conditions including outdoor settings, agricultural environments, and event-based activities.
  • Work may require standing, walking, and occasional lifting up to 40 pounds.
  • Frequent interaction with external stakeholders, industry partners, government agencies, and community organizations is required.
  • Occasional evening and weekend work may be required based on program and event schedules.



Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.


KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.