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Workforce Development Specialist Jobs in Virginia

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Workforce Development Specialist information

See Virginia salary details

$28.8K

$65.4K

$129.4K

How much do workforce development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development specialist in Virginia is $65,433.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $84,800.00 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 opportunities by assessing needs, providing training, and connecting clients with resources. They often work with employers and community organizations to align workforce skills with labor market demands and may use tools like career assessments and training programs. The role typically requires strong communication, organizational skills, and knowledge of local employment resources.

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.

Is workforce development the same as HR?

Workforce development specialists focus on training, skill-building, and employment programs to improve the workforce's capabilities, while human resources (HR) professionals handle employee relations, recruitment, and compliance within an organization. Although both roles support employment and organizational goals, they have distinct functions and skill sets, with workforce development emphasizing community or regional workforce growth and HR concentrating on internal employee management.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Workforce Development Specialists typically do not earn $4,000 a week without a degree, as this salary level is uncommon for entry-level or specialized roles in workforce development. High-paying jobs that can reach this level often require specialized skills, certifications, or experience in fields such as sales, real estate, skilled trades, or entrepreneurship. These roles may involve commission, bonuses, or self-employment income, rather than standard salaried positions.

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 jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

By 2030, roles such as data entry clerks and telemarketers are expected to decline significantly due to automation and AI advancements. Workforce Development Specialists should focus on developing skills in technology, data analysis, and interpersonal communication to adapt to evolving job markets. Many repetitive tasks will be automated, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and reskilling.
What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development Specialist jobs in Virginia? For Workforce Development Specialist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Workforce Development Specialist jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Workforce Development Specialist job openings:
Infographic showing various Workforce Development Specialist job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,433 per year, or $31.5 per hour.
Talent Development Specialist

Talent Development Specialist

Radford University

Radford, VA • On-site

$55K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Radford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Talent Development Specialist
Job no: 55000489
Work type: Administrative & Professional Faculty
Location: Radford
Categories: Human Resources
Title: Talent Development Specialist
Application Review Date: 07/6/2026
Campus Location: Radford City - Main Campus
Job Description
The Talent Development Specialist plans, coordinates, delivers, and evaluates learning and talent development programs that build employee capability, strengthen leadership effectiveness, and support organizational performance. Reporting to the Talent Development Manager, this position supports workforce development, employee engagement, retention, and succession planning through training delivery, program coordination, and use of data to align with organizational priorities and a culture of learning, collaboration, and care.
This role develops training materials and facilitates learning experiences in classroom, virtual, and self-paced formats. Responsibilities include delivering onboarding, required training, leadership development, coaching, mentoring, and other professional development programs. The position identifies development needs, assesses skill gaps, develops materials, tracks participation, and evaluates program effectiveness using feedback and performance data.
The Talent Development Specialist partners with HR, leaders, and subject matter experts to support learning solutions aligned with organizational needs.
The position provides operational and administrative support, including records management, reporting, learning management system maintenance, and training documentation. This role also supports compliance activities, Statement of Economic Interest, Conflict of Interest, employee engagement efforts, HR projects, and process improvement initiatives.
Required Qualifications
• Master's degree in Human Resources, Education, Instructional Design, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or a related field; or Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Education, Instructional Design, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or a related field, and equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible experience in talent development, training, or related HR functions
• Experience in designing, developing, and delivering training or learning programs in a professional or organizational setting
• Strong communication, facilitation, and presentation skills
• Experience using learning management systems (LMS) and/or training development tools
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Project management or process improvement experience related to HR or organizational development initiatives
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience in higher education, public sector, or similarly complex organizational environment
• Experience developing e-learning content using instructional design software (for example, Articulate, Captivate, or similar tools)
• Experience supporting workforce planning, retention, succession planning, or employee engagement initiatives
• Experience analyzing training data and using metrics to evaluate program effectiveness
• Experience supporting HR compliance processes and reporting requirements
• Certification in training, instructional design, HR, or organizational development may be given preference
Is this position Grant Funded: No
Is this position restricted: No
Is this position eligible for telework: No, may be telework eligible after 6 months in-person training for up to 1 day per week.
Hours Per Week: 40
Months per Year: 12
Statement of Economic Interest Required: No
FLSA Status: Exempt
Work Classification: Administrative & Professional Faculty
Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, evenings or weekends as required.
Employee Classification: Professional - Lecturer
Department: Human Resources
Salary Range: $55,000-$78,000
Department Contact Name: Leah Taylor
Department Contact Phone: 540-831-5008
Department Contact Email: hr@radford.edu
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices.
Clery Statement
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Radford University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university's policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years' of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the Radford University Police Department located at 810 East Main Street PO Box 6883, Radford, VA, 24142.
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation in the application process please contact the hiring department.
Criminal Background Check Statement
Radford University is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of our hiring and screening process, we conduct criminal background checks in compliance with Virginia Code § 19.2-389 and other applicable state and federal laws. Successful candidates will be required to have a criminal background check.
Advertised: 03 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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