1

Workforce Development Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Workforce Development Program Manager information

See salary details

$32K

$120.1K

$200K

How much do workforce development program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development program manager in the United States is $120,059.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a workforce development program manager do?

A Workforce Development Program Manager is responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing programs that help individuals gain the skills needed to secure employment and advance in their careers. They work with employers, educational institutions, and community organizations to identify workforce needs and create training and support initiatives. Their duties often include managing budgets, evaluating program effectiveness, and ensuring compliance with funding requirements. Ultimately, they play a key role in connecting job seekers with employers and improving local or regional workforce outcomes.

What are some typical challenges a workforce development program manager faces when aligning program goals with employer needs?

A key challenge for Workforce Development Program Managers is ensuring that training programs stay relevant to changing employer demands. This often requires ongoing communication with local businesses and industry partners to anticipate skill gaps and adapt curricula accordingly. Additionally, balancing the needs of diverse participant populations with employer expectations can be complex, requiring creative problem-solving and strong stakeholder management. Successful managers regularly analyze labor market data and foster strong partnerships to navigate these challenges effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a workforce development program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Workforce Development Program Manager, you need expertise in program management, workforce training strategies, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in human resources, education, or a related field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), data analytics tools, and certifications like the Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) are commonly required. Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills help you build effective partnerships and motivate diverse teams. These skills ensure that workforce initiatives align with organizational goals, drive positive employment outcomes, and respond to evolving labor market needs.

What is the difference between Workforce Development Program Manager vs Workforce Development Coordinator?

AspectWorkforce Development Program ManagerWorkforce Development Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees program planning, strategy, and implementation; manages teams and budgetsAssists with program activities, coordinates events, and supports daily operations
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; experience in workforce programs; project management skillsBachelor's degree or relevant experience; strong organizational skills
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often in government or nonprofit sectorsOffice-based, supporting program delivery and community outreach
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in government agencies, nonprofits, and educational institutionsOften found in similar settings, supporting program execution

The main difference is that Workforce Development Program Managers lead and strategize workforce initiatives, while Workforce Development Coordinators support and execute daily activities. Managers handle planning and oversight, whereas coordinators focus on operational tasks.

What cities are hiring for Workforce Development Program Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Workforce Development Program Manager job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Workforce Development Program jobs?

The most popular types of Workforce Development Program jobs are:

What states have the most Workforce Development Program Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Workforce Development Program Manager jobs include:

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

MUST RESIDE IN ILLINOIS
*Field-based work environment with work conducted from a home office when not onsite at client facilities
*Frequent travel throughout the state to support client engagements and onsite activities
*Work authorization required. IMEC is unable to sponsor visas for this role.
The Workforce Development Specialist is a hands-on advisor who leads the implementation of workforce improvement solutions for manufacturers across Illinois. As a subject matter expert, this role delivers high-impact solutions tailored to client needs, including workforce training systems, onboarding, training and development, career pathways, and performance improvement initiatives. The Workforce Development Specialist partners with client teams to design and implement sustainable workforce solutions that strengthen employee development, align workforce strategies with business objectives, and drive measurable improvements in organizational performance.
Key Responsibilities
  • Engage with manufacturers to understand workforce development challenges and design solutions that strengthen onboarding, training effectiveness, and employee development, that leads to strong retention, and improved organizational performance.
  • Provide strategic guidance to manufacturers that helps them build a long-term approach to workforce development success.
  • Provide training, coaching, and workforce performance expertise based on client needs and area(s) of specialization.
  • Develop proposals and solution plans in collaboration with Regional Managers
  • Manage and execute workforce performance engagements from planning through implementation and outcome tracking, including:
    • Conducting workforce needs diagnostics to identify capability gaps, workforce training challenges, and improvement opportunities.
    • Designing and implementing structured onboarding programs that improve employee integration and time to proficiency.
    • Developing and implementing workforce training systems, including Learning Management System (LMS) integration and training processes that improve consistency and effectiveness.
    • Designing apprenticeship programs and defined career pathway frameworks that support employee development and long-term workforce sustainability.
    • Developing supervisors by providing tools, frameworks, coaching approaches, and training solutions that strengthen their ability to effectively lead, coach, and develop employees.
    • Develop custom curriculum including educational videos, job aids, training presentations, and other materials as required.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor and workforce performance lead throughout the client engagement lifecycle.
  • Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of workforce development solutions offered by IMEC.
  • Provide thought leadership in workforce performance and development through webinars, public speaking engagements, and published articles.
  • Support the development of third-party resources and strategic partnerships that strengthen workforce performance solutions and services.

Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree required, Master's degree preferred
  • 3+ years of experience working with manufacturing organizations, including leadership, workforce development, talent management, training, human resources, organizational development, or consulting responsibilities
  • Strong background in workforce development, talent management, training systems, organizational development, human resources, leadership development, or a related field
  • Experience working with small and mid-sized manufacturers is a plus.

Additional attributes include:
  • Ability to manage multiple client engagements simultaneously and meet project deadlines
  • Adaptability in diverse environments, including varied manufacturing sectors, multiple touch points across organizations, and company cultures
  • Entrepreneurial and client-focused approach with the ability to assess varying levels of organizational readiness and tailor solutions that align with client needs, priorities, and continuous improvement goals
  • Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce), Microsoft Office Suite, and virtual collaboration platforms
  • Willingness to travel across the state and work in both remote and onsite environments

Work Environment
  • Remote/Field-Based Work Environment: Work is performed from a home office when not onsite at manufacturing facilities. The role combines independent remote work with regular in-person client engagement.
  • Frequent in-state travel by automobile and occasional travel by aircraft.
  • Requires driving, sitting for extended periods, and working in facilities that may not be ADA accessible.
  • Extended hours and weekend work may be required.
  • Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Please submit an electronic application, including (1) cover letter, (2) resume, and (3) the names and contact information for three references. IMEC, The University of Illinois, Northern Illinois University, Southern Illinois University, and Bradley University conduct background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of contingent offer of employment. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
IMEC and its Subrecipient organizations, including Bradley University, SIU, NIU, and UIC are EOE/AA/M/F/Disabled/Veteran Employers.
About IMEC:
IMEC is a team of improvement specialists dedicated to providing manufacturers in Illinois with the tools and techniques to excel and compete globally. The experienced hands-on team at IMEC works closely with its clients to plan critical business improvements in all areas of their organization from: Leading their Company, Planning for Success, Growing their Business, Improving their Operations, Focusing on their People, and Deciding with Data.
With more than 50 full-time staff and partners positioned statewide, IMEC delivers the local expertise to not only plan and strategize but to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of client improvements. In fact, IMEC assists more than 2,500 companies each year with successful business improvement projects.
As a result, IMEC has demonstrated a return on investment that exceeds 19:1. This is made possible as organizations become more effective and efficient.
IMEC team members enjoy their jobs because of the challenge of working with a variety of organizations in a broad range of industries. They also gain satisfaction from providing assistance and advisement to help organizations succeed in a demanding marketplace. Click HERE to learn more about IMEC.