1

Workforce Development Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

In the role of Workforce Development Specialist, we'll count on you to: • Manage recruitment outreach and candidate engagement through initial contact, follow-ups, and structured communication ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Workforce Development Specialist information

See salary details

$29K

$66K

$130.5K

How much do workforce development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 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:
Infographic showing various Workforce Development Specialist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,999 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

$19 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description

GENERAL SUMMARY

Reporting to the Senior Manager of Workforce Development, the Workforce Development Specialist is responsible for providing employment preparation, job placement, retention support, and skills training for individuals facing barriers to employment. This role acts as a liaison between job seekers and employers to develop and facilitate employment opportunities while ensuring job seekers receive the necessary coaching and resources to succeed. This position continually upholds the Mission, Vision, and Values of the organization.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:


  • Conducts intake assessments, collects, and maintains confidential files, and develops individualized, person-centered service plans for job seekers.
  • Provides employment coaching and skill development training, including hard and soft skills needed for workplace success.
  • Matches qualified job seekers with appropriate employers, arranges and schedules interviews, and ensures successful job placement with a target of at least a 75% placement rate.
  • Assists job seekers with applications, resume and cover letter preparation, and interview skills.
  • Facilitates training programs, including workplace etiquette, reasonable accommodations, and integration support for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment.
  • Establishes and maintains strong relationships with employers, community organizations, and referring agencies to create employment and training opportunities.
  • Provides on-the-job coaching and mentoring to support job retention and career advancement.
  • Utilizes case management tools and database systems to document progress, case notes, attendance, and service outcomes.
  • Collaborates with finance and program teams to ensure accurate tracking and reporting of job placements, participant progress, and service billing.
  • Engages in community outreach efforts, including attending meetings, delivering presentations, and submitting success stories and media content.
  • Ensures compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, organizational policies, and procedures, CARF standards, and safety and security regulations.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.


Basic Qualifications of the Role:

  • Associate's degree in business, social services, rehabilitation, special education, or a related field preferred.
  • Minimum of two years of experience in workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, job coaching, or related fields.
  • Access to reliable transportation with the ability to travel to multiple locations in a single day that does not interfere with performing the essential functions of the job description, cause tardiness, or unexcused absences preferred.
  • Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to work with diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities and other employment barriers.
  • Excellent written and verbal      communication skills, including networking and presentation abilities.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in      Microsoft Office Suite and database management systems.
  • Ability to maintain an elevated      level of confidentiality and professional integrity.
  • Strong problem-solving,      time-management, and organizational skills.
  • Must be flexible and adaptable,      able to prioritize tasks effectively.
  • Must provide proof of identification and eligibility      to work in the United States. 
  • Must pass a drug screening and maintain      compliance with the organization's drug and alcohol policy. 
  • Must pass a background screening and maintain      compliance with the organization's associated polices. 
  • Must not have record or disclosure of criminal conviction that indicates an ongoing tendency toward theft, violence, dishonesty, deceit, drug manufacture or sale, moral turpitude, or predatory behavior. 
  • Must not present a direct threat of safety and health to self, others or property.
  • Must be able to perform essential functions of this job description with or without reasonable accommodation.

POSITIONS SUPERVISED:

  • None

POSITION INFORMATION:


This is a full time, non-exempt position eligible for Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance; 403(b) retirement plan, Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Leave. This position is employed by Goodwill Industries of Sacramento Valley and Northern Nevada, Inc.


WORK CONDITIONS/HAZARDS:


The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to drive, stand, walk, sit, use hands and fingers, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl and talk or hear. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 20 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. The work environment is usually hectic/fast paced with frequent short deadlines and instances of unusual situations. Travel to various company locations may be required.


This job description does not cover all the activities, duties or responsibilities required of this role. Omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar or related to the position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice to accommodate the organization's needs. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.