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Workforce Development Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Dynamic Workforce Solutions

Career Planner

Dubuque, IA · On-site

Minimum of two years' experience in staffing, recruiting, or workforce development with at least one year's experience working with computer systems for data entry and data review required. Previous ...

Aston Carter

Learning And Development Specialist

Ames, IA · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Description The Learning and Development Specialist will support the enhancement of workforce development and education initiatives by assisting with utilization and maintenance of various learning ...

My3Tech Inc

IA-DOM-IWD-TS2-PL/SQL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$44.25 - $60.50/hr

Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) is a state agency committed to providing unemployment insurance for claimants and employment services for job seekers, including re-employment programs. IWD is ...

State of Iowa

Career Planner

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) is seeking a Career Planner to join our team at the IowaWORKS office in Mason City, Iowa. Position Details Location: 600 S Pierce Ave., Mason City, IA Schedule ...

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All JobsWorkforce Development JobsWorkforce Development Jobs in Iowa

Workforce Development information

See Iowa salary details

$27.2K

$62K

$122.6K

How much do workforce development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development in Iowa is $61,990.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,900.00 and $80,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In workforce development, high-paying roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians can earn $10,000 or more monthly without a college degree, often requiring experience, certifications, or specialized skills. Success in these fields depends on performance, networking, and industry knowledge, with some roles demanding long hours or entrepreneurial effort.

What does someone in workforce development do?

A workforce development professional helps individuals improve their skills and find employment opportunities by providing training, career counseling, and connecting job seekers with employers. They often work with community organizations, use data to identify workforce needs, and may hold certifications in career development or related fields.

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.

How much does a workforce development specialist make?

A workforce development specialist typically earns between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires strong communication and program management skills, with some positions offering additional benefits or certifications.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

Workforce development professionals can increase earnings by specializing in high-demand skills such as project management, digital marketing, or IT support, often requiring certifications like PMP or CompTIA. Freelance platforms, remote consulting, and building a strong client base can help achieve higher weekly income, but consistent $2000 earnings typically require experience, skill development, and a flexible schedule.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Workforce Development jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development jobs in Iowa? For Workforce Development jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Workforce Development jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Workforce Development jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Workforce Development jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Workforce Development job openings:
Workforce Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Workforce Development job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,990 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Community Engagement Specialist

Community Engagement Specialist

Dynamic Workforce Solutions

Ottumwa, IA • On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Dynamic Workforce Solutions rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 197 rated education and training

Job description

Job Title: One-Stop Operator
Reports To: Senior One Stop Operator
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $55,000 to $60,000
Does require 25% travel
Position Summary:
The One-Stop Operator (OSO) serves as the strategic lead for a workforce system, acting as the primary liaison to Board staff. This role is responsible for overseeing system-wide alignment, strategic planning, compliance, and partner coordination. The OSO ensures consistent service delivery across centers and leads business services engagement, driving innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the workforce ecosystem. The individual in this role must be clearly positioned within the bidder's organizational structure, with defined authority, accountability, and chain of command.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & System Alignment
• Serve as the lead liaison to workforce board, ensuring alignment with board priorities, policies, and strategic goals.
• Oversee implementation of the Rock Framework across all centers.
• Lead quarterly system enhancement forums and monthly partner performance reviews.
Compliance & Governance
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including WIOA and workforce board requirements.
• Manage MOUs, certification criteria, and governance meetings to maintain system integrity.
• Monitor partner engagement, joint initiatives, and service quality through structured oversight.
Partner Coordination & Service Integration
• Facilitate cross-agency collaboration and joint planning among Title I-IV partners, other core partners, and community stakeholders.
• Bring together diverse groups with aligned but not identical goals, fostering cooperation and shared outcomes.
• Provide mediation and negotiation as needed to resolve conflicts and support effective collaboration.
• Support onboarding and orientation for new partners and staff.
• Promote shared ownership through innovation labs and co-designed service enhancements.
Business Services Engagement
• Function as the primary contact for business services, coordinating employer outreach, recruitment agreements, and engagement events.
• Lead development of employer-hosted tours, podcasts, and strategic partnerships to enhance job seeker access to opportunities.
• Support public relations efforts that strengthen awareness of workforce system services and successes.
Performance Monitoring & Continuous Improvement
• Oversee system-wide performance tracking using KPIs, Net Promoter Scores, and customer journey mapping.
• Implement real-time feedback systems and secret shopper evaluations to inform service enhancements.
• Ensure data-informed decision-making and transparent reporting to workforce board.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in workforce development, program management, or public administration.
• Proven leadership in multi-partner environments with strong strategic planning and compliance expertise.
• Familiarity with ISO-certified quality systems and performance evaluation tools.
• Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving skills.
• Bachelor's Degree or higher in Human Services, Communications, Project Management, Business Operations, or a related field; equivalent professional experience may substitute for education.
Preferred:
• Experience in mediation and/or negotiation.
• Experience in public relations or external communications.
• Demonstrated ability to convene, align, and facilitate collaboration among multiple agencies or organizations with similar but not fully aligned goals and objectives.
Travel Requirements: Position requires regular travel across a 22-county service area, with a primary presence at IowaWORKS American Job Centers in Burlington, Davenport, Ottumwa, and Marshalltown. Travel includes on-site coverage, partner coordination, and outreach throughout the region.

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