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Workforce Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Workforce Knowledge Analyst

Torrance, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

The Role Hadrian is building the most advanced manufacturing platform in the world, and Workforce Development is the team responsible for ensuring our people can keep pace with it. As Hadrian scales ...

Workforce Specialist I

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$58K - $78K/yr

Community Development Opening Date: 08/31/2026 Closing Date: 9/14/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Bargaining ... A team player, the Workforce Specialist I has strong interpersonal skills, uses tact and good ...

Showing results 41-60

Workforce Development information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$65.1K

$128.8K

How much do workforce development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development in California is $65,134.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $84,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is workforce development?

Workforce development refers to a wide range of activities, policies, and programs designed to create, sustain, and retain a skilled workforce that meets the current and future needs of employers. This field focuses on improving workers’ skills, connecting people to employment opportunities, and supporting career advancement. Workforce development can include job training, education, career counseling, apprenticeships, and collaboration between businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies. Its ultimate goal is to strengthen both individuals’ employability and the overall economic health of communities.

How do workforce development professionals typically collaborate with local employers and educational institutions?

Workforce Development professionals often serve as a bridge between local employers, training providers, and educational institutions. They regularly coordinate with businesses to identify current and future hiring needs, then partner with schools and community colleges to develop or enhance training programs that align with those needs. This collaborative approach ensures that job seekers are equipped with relevant skills and that employers have access to a qualified talent pipeline. Effective communication and relationship-building are key parts of the role, making networking and stakeholder management essential daily activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in workforce development, and why are they important?

To excel in Workforce Development, you need expertise in career counseling, labor market analysis, and program management, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications such as CWDP (Certified Workforce Development Professional). Familiarity with workforce information systems, job-matching platforms, and data analysis tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills help professionals connect with job seekers and employers effectively. These skills ensure successful program outcomes, foster community partnerships, and enable individuals to achieve employment and career growth.

What is the difference between Workforce Development vs Career Counselor?

AspectWorkforce DevelopmentCareer Counselor
CredentialsVaries; often includes certifications in workforce or employment servicesTypically requires a counseling or career development certification or degree
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, community organizations, training centersEducational institutions, private practices, career centers
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by public and nonprofit sectors to improve employment ratesUsed by schools, private firms, and counseling agencies to guide individual careers

While both roles focus on employment and career paths, Workforce Development primarily involves creating programs and policies to improve employment opportunities at a community or organizational level. Career Counselors work directly with individuals to help them identify career goals and develop personal strategies. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and organizations choose the right support for their needs.

Is workforce development a good career?

Workforce development is a growing field focused on improving employment opportunities and skills training. It often involves collaboration with community organizations and government agencies, requiring strong communication and program management skills. The career can offer stability and the chance to make a positive community impact.

What does a workforce development do?

A workforce development professional helps connect individuals with job opportunities, training programs, and skills development to meet labor market needs. They often work with employers, educational institutions, and government agencies to improve employment outcomes and workforce skills.

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

The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Workforce Development jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Workforce Development jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Workforce Development jobs?

Cities in California with the most Workforce Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Workforce Development job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,134 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

DSP: Workforce Development Instructor (Full-Time)

Van Nuys, CA • On-site

Tierra Del Sol Foundation
Charitable Organizations • 51 - 200 employees

$22.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Plan and conduct lessons and activities for associates based on their PPML Plans and Person-Centered Plans.

  • Provide training and supervision to associates in job skills, community access, self-advocacy, social/leisure skills, and mobility.

  • Maintain communication with employers regarding associate performance, work schedules, and quality assurance.


Job description

The Workforce Development Direct Support Professional is under the supervision of the Program Manager/ Program Director and is responsible for planning and conducting lessons and activities for associates drawn from the Productive and Personally Meaningful Life (PPML) Plans/ Person Centered Plans. The Direct Support Professional plays an integral role in supporting associates to: utilize effective communication systems; develop positive relationships with others; become valued, contributing members of the community; work toward achievement of their work and life’s goals, and attain a true community-based, integrated, quality of life, which includes competitive, integrated employment.


The Workforce Development Direct Support Professional is expected to become familiar with all of the associates he/she serves so that he/she can make valuable contributions to Productive and Personally Meaningful Life (PPML)/Individual PATH/Rehabilitation/Habilitation/Service Plans, Person-Centered Planning meetings and Circle of Support meetings.


Principle Areas of Responsibility:

  1. Provide small group and one-on-one training of individuals in specific job skills and general work behaviors.

  2. Ensure that all assigned job duties are consistently completed according to employer standards and expectations.

  3. Maintain regular communication with employers regarding their satisfaction with employee performance, work schedules and quality assurance.

  4. Conduct job analysis in cooperation with employers.

  5. Provide supervision and training to associates in community access skills.

  6. Provide supervision and training to associates in self-advocacy and social/leisure skills.

  7. Provide mobility training.

  8. Assist associates in accessing a variety of community locations using company/personal vehicles/public transportation.


This is a 35-37 hour per week position, dependent on the needs of the individuals assigned. Typical work hours may be 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. These hours and duties are subject to change based on program needs and may include weekends, holidays and evening hours to meet associate, employer and stakeholder expectations. For this position, staff will have a 30 minute working lunch when actively supporting associates. A working lunch agreement will be on file.


Qualifications:

  • Three years of good driving experience, a valid California driver’s license, personal vehicle with seatbelts to safely accommodate up to 4 passengers, and vehicle insurance is also required. 
  • Candidate must have a sincere desire to help others be successful. 
  • High School Diploma or higher. A Bachelor’s degree in the field of Social Service/Rehabilitation is a plus. 
  • Experience  in providing training/support to individuals with developmental disabilities a plus.

  • Must demonstrate a working knowledge of task analysis/assessment/positive behavior supports and clear written and verbal communication skills.

WHAT WE OFFER 

STARTING RATE OF $22.65 PER HOUR 

COMPETITIVE BENEFITS: 

  • Medical 
  • Dental 
  • Vision 
  • Life Insurance 
  • 403B Savings 

PAID TIME OFF 

  • Two weeks’ vacation 
  • Personal 
  • Sick 

OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH 

Tierra offers a wide variety of DSP and management-level opportunities 

EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT  

Tierra is committed to ensuring each and every staff member feels focused, recognized, and challenged via: 

  • Weekly check-ins via Stand Out platform 
  • Monthly Department meetings 
  • Annual DSP Week celebration 
  • Annual New Year Kickoff party 
  • Annual Health Fair 

BONUS OPPORTUNITIES 

Bonus opportunities are available for employees who refer others to work for Tierra del Sol. 

INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC TRAINING/TRANSFERABLE SKILLS, INCLUDING: 

  • First Aid/CPR Training 
  • NADSP E-Badge Academy: Tierra proudly offers all staff members who are interested, an opportunity to advance in their professional development and showcase their accomplishments with this accredited online training program through The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals Foundation.  
  • Open Future Learning: Accredited online training recognized by The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals. 
  • Handle with Care Behavior Management System: This federally approved two-part training system provides staff with verbal-intervention and physical-intervention techniques that focus on empowering individuals experiencing a crisis to regain control through support from trained personnel.  
  • Therap Experience: National leader in Web-Based Developmental Disabilities Software. Therap is a web-based application suite that was designed to provide a comprehensive solution for organizations supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  


JOIN TIERRA DEL SOL FOUNDATION AND HELP MAKE A MEANINGFUL CONTRIBUTION EVERYDAY WHILE WORKING IN A FRIENDLY AND SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT!