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Workforce Development Specialist Jobs in Tennessee

Career Advisor

Covington, TN · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

Career Team is a leading workforce development organization on a mission to transform lives. We ... Collaborate with the Intake Specialist to complete intake and eligibility determination for the ...

Career Team is a leading workforce development organization on a mission to transform lives. We ... Collaborate with the Intake Specialist to complete intake and eligibility determination for the ...

Career Advisor

Memphis, TN · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

Career Team is a leading workforce development organization on a mission to transform lives. We ... Collaborate with the Intake Specialist to complete intake and eligibility determination for the ...

Career Team is a leading workforce development organization on a mission to transform lives. We ... Collaborate with the Intake Specialist to complete intake and eligibility determination for the ...

Career Advisor

Memphis, TN · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

Career Team is a leading workforce development organization on a mission to transform lives. We ... Collaborate with the Intake Specialist to complete intake and eligibility determination for the ...

Production Specialist - Operations

Memphis, TN · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Summary: The Production Specialist - Operations will be based in Memphis, TN reporting to ... and workforce development across assigned manufacturing areas. Supervision / Leadership • No ...

Summary: The Production Specialist - Operations will be based in Memphis, TN reporting to ... workforce development across assigned manufacturing areas. Supervision / Leadership No direct ...

Career Advisor

Covington, TN · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

Career Team is a leading workforce development organization on a mission to transform lives. We ... Collaborate with the Intake Specialist to complete intake and eligibility determination for the ...

Showing results 41-60

Workforce Development Specialist information

See Tennessee salary details

$26.3K

$59.9K

$118.4K

How much do workforce development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development specialist in Tennessee is $59,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $77,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Is workforce development a good career?

Workforce development specialists help connect individuals with job training and employment opportunities, often working with government agencies or nonprofits. The role requires strong communication, organizational skills, and knowledge of labor markets, with job prospects influenced by economic conditions and policy changes. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in community development and workforce improvement.

What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development Specialist jobs in Tennessee?

For Workforce Development Specialist jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Workforce Development Specialist job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,902 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

$17.25 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Goodwill Industries Of Middle Tennessee rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

420th of 783 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Job Location

Lifsey Building - Career Solutions

Job Summary:

The Intake Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for individuals entering Goodwill's Career & Technical Academy (GCTA) training programs. This position manages the intake and enrollment process for prospective students, ensuring participants complete all required documentation, assessments, eligibility requirements, and onboarding activities before beginning training.
The Intake Specialist works closely with instructors, the Registrar, Career Navigators, employers, and external partners to provide an exceptional student experience from initial interest through the first day of class. This position also maintains accurate student records, coordinates enrollment logistics, and supports continuous improvement of enrollment processes.
The Intake Specialist will promote a positive work environment that celebrates our vision, mission and core values of Teamwork, Respect, Uprightness and Empowerment in every action and interaction with team members, donors, customers, management and persons served.

Job Description

Essential Functions

Student Recruitment & Intake
  • Serves as a point of contact for prospective GCTA students.
  • Responds to inquiries regarding training programs, eligibility requirements, schedules, and enrollment.
  • Conducts intake interviews to determine program fit and readiness.
  • Explains program expectations, attendance requirements, and career pathways.
  • Assists students in completing enrollment paperwork and required documentation.
Enrollment Coordination
  • Coordinates enrollment for all GCTA training programs including Construction, Welding, Forklift, Healthcare, and future programs
  • Tracks applicant progress through the enrollment pipeline.
  • Ensures all required forms, releases, identification, and eligibility documentation are received
  • Verifies students have completed all pre-enrollment requirements.
  • Maintains waitlists and communicates enrollment status to applicants.
  • Coordinates orientation sessions and onboarding activities.
Assessment & Testing Coordination
  • Schedules physical abilities testing and other required assessments.
  • Coordinates drug screens, background checks, or other program-specific requirements when applicable.
  • Tracks completion of required assessments.
  • Communicates results and next steps to students.
Student Records & Data Management
  • Maintains accurate electronic student records.
  • Enters enrollment data into organizational systems.
  • Tracks enrollment metrics, completion of intake milestones, and reporting requirements.
  • Prepares reports regarding enrollment, class capacity, and applicant status.
  • Ensures confidentiality of student information.
Program Coordination
  • Coordinates with instructors regarding class rosters and enrollment numbers.
  • Assists with scheduling new cohorts.
  • Ensures classrooms receive accurate participant information prior to class start.
  • Coordinates communication between students and instructional staff.
  • Coordinates with accounting on student stipends.
  • Assists with graduation and completion documentation.
Customer Service
  • Provides exceptional customer service to students, employers, referral partners, and community organizations.
  • Maintains regular communication with applicants throughout the enrollment process.
  • Answers questions and resolves enrollment issues promptly.
  • Connects applicants with internal resources when barriers to enrollment are identified.
Continuous Improvement
  • Identifies opportunities to improve enrollment processes and student experience.
  • Assists in developing standardized intake procedures and documentation.
  • Recommends workflow improvements to increase efficiency.
General Duties
  • Demonstrates regular and reliable attendance.
  • Maintains compliance with organizational policies and applicable regulations.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Required Skills:

Education

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Associate's degree preferred.

Experience

  • Three years of administrative, enrollment, admissions, customer service, education, workforce development, healthcare, or related experience.
  • Experience coordinating multiple activities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience maintaining confidential records.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office and database systems.

Knowledge / Skills

  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
  • Strong scheduling and coordination skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  • Ability to maintain confidential information.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
  • Ability to learn new student information systems and databases.
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments.

Preferred Education / Experience / Knowledge & Skills / Certifications & Licenses

  • Experience in admissions, student services, workforce development, training administration, healthcare scheduling, higher education, or career services.
  • Experience coordinating enrollment or onboarding processes.
  • Experience with CRM or student information systems.
  • Bilingual skills are a plus.

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