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Workforce Development Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Workforce Development Specialist information

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$29K

$66K

$130.5K

How much do workforce development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development specialist in the United States is $65,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $85,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Workforce Development Specialist vs Career Counselor?

AspectWorkforce Development SpecialistCareer Counselor
Primary FocusDeveloping workforce programs, training, and employment initiativesProviding career guidance, counseling, and job search assistance
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, workforce boards, training centersEducational institutions, private counseling firms, career centers
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in human services, social work, or related fieldUsually a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling, psychology, or related field
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in public and nonprofit sectors focused on employment servicesCommon in educational and private career services settings

While both roles aim to assist individuals with employment and career development, a Workforce Development Specialist focuses on creating and managing programs to improve workforce skills, whereas a Career Counselor provides personalized guidance to individuals seeking career advice. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and employers find the right support for their needs.

What does a Workforce Development Specialist do?

A Workforce Development Specialist helps individuals improve their skills and find employment by designing, implementing, and managing training and development programs. They often work with job seekers, employers, and community organizations to identify workforce needs, provide career counseling, and connect people to job opportunities. Their work supports economic growth by ensuring that workers have the skills employers need and that communities have access to a strong labor force.

What are some common challenges faced by Workforce Development Specialists when coordinating with multiple community partners?

Workforce Development Specialists often collaborate with various community organizations, educational institutions, and employers to create effective job training and placement programs. A common challenge is aligning the goals and expectations of these diverse partners while maintaining clear communication and managing timelines. Navigating differing priorities and resource limitations can require strong negotiation and organizational skills. Building and maintaining trustful relationships is crucial for ensuring successful program outcomes and sustained partnerships.

What Does a Workforce Development Specialist Do?

The duties of a workforce development specialist are to design and conduct a program to train employees and improve performance. They typically consider the organizational performance of a company as they develop this program, which includes financial performance, market performance, and shareholder return. A workforce development specialist often acts as support during the program. Qualifications to become a workforce development specialist include a bachelor's degree in human resources or a relevant field as well as industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Workforce Development Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Workforce Development Specialist, you need a background in human resources, career counseling, or education, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with workforce management systems, labor market analysis tools, and case management software is typically required. Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills help build relationships with clients and stakeholders while effectively coordinating training initiatives. These skills ensure the successful alignment of workforce programs with employer needs and support positive employment outcomes for job seekers.
What cities are hiring for Workforce Development Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Workforce Development Specialist job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Workforce Development Specialist jobs? The top employers for Workforce Development Specialist jobs are:
What states have the most Workforce Development Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Workforce Development Specialist jobs include:
Workforce Development Specialist

Workforce Development Specialist

ALIGN PRECISION

Tempe, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Align Precision rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ALIGN is a leading manufacturing partner committed to fostering the growth and development of our workforce. As we continue to attract and retain top talent, we are seeking a dynamic and strategic Workforce Development Specialist to join our team.
The Workforce Development Specialist partners closely with our HR team and site leadership at ALIGN business units around the country to identify key workforce development needs, develop training plans and curriculum, and partner with internal and external training sources. This individual will be responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with industry, education (technical schools, high schools, universities), and government. The Workforce Development Specialist will lead with integrity and authenticity and exercise humility and respect in all interactions with team members of all levels and positions across the business.
Primary Responsibilities include:
  1. Relationship Building
    • Partner with internal business unit leadership to anticipate and address needs, ensuring a proactive approach to workforce planning.
    • Establish and nurture strong relationships with industry, education and government associations to align objectives and collaborate on workforce development initiatives.
    • Build and maintain connections within the manufacturing industry to stay abreast of industry trends and workforce needs.
  2. Strategic Planning
    • Conduct thorough analyses to identify critical workforce development needs within the organization.
    • Develop comprehensive plans and curricula to address identified needs, ensuring alignment with industry standards and organizational objectives.
    • Partner with HR team to implement strategies to retain and develop employees, including individual career development plans.
  3. Training Execution
    • Oversee the execution of both internal and external training initiatives, ensuring the delivery of high-quality programs that meet organizational requirements.
    • Drive synergy across the business units to create a consistent approach to workforce development.
  4. Talent Acquisition Support
    • Collaborate with the HR team to support talent acquisition activities by identifying skill gaps and assisting in the recruitment of skilled professionals.
    • Provide insights on market trends and workforce availability to inform hiring strategies.
  5. Upskilling Opportunities
    • Identify opportunities for upskilling the existing workforce to enhance their capabilities and adapt to evolving industry demands.
    • Design and implement programs to facilitate continuous learning and development for current employees.
  6. Apprenticeship and Internship Programs
    • Develop and implement apprenticeship and internship programs across the enterprise in collaboration with local institutions and government bodies.
    • Formalize a standardized program that ensures consistency in training and development across different business units.
    • Identify training grant opportunities
  7. HR Analytics and Reporting
    • Utilize HR data and metrics to make informed decisions and track effectiveness of initiatives.
    • Prepare and present reports to leadership.

Qualifications
  • Proven experience (5+ years) in workforce development with a focus on the manufacturing industry highly preferred
  • Detail oriented with excellent analytical and strategic planning skills
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively build relationships with diverse stakeholders
  • Ability to drive collaboration and synergy across different business units
  • Strong leadership, interpersonal and communication skills
  • Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Ability to orchestrate a multitude of critical deliverables and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Experience in curriculum development and training program execution
  • Clear, honest, and articulate communicator
  • Knowledge or apprenticeship program development and management; prior experience establishing apprenticeship programs highly preferred
  • Multi-site experience is preferred
  • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Psychology, Business Administration, or a related field preferred
  • Established relationships with industry and education partners highly preferred
  • Proficiency in HRIS (UKG experience is preferred) and Microsoft Office Suite (specifically SharePoint, Excel, Word and PowerPoint)

Note: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) of this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the employee(s) will possess the skills, aptitude, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety to themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an at will relationship.
Affirmative Action/Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: ALIGN PRECISION is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at our company. We are committed to creating a workplace where all qualified individuals are welcome and can thrive, regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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.

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