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Workforce Development Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Career Planner

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$22.36 - $23.32/hr

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 ...

PROMISE JOBS Advisor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49K - $72K/yr

Iowa Workforce Development is seeking applicants for a PROMISE JOBS Workforce Advisor. Position Description: As a valued member of our IowaWORKS team, you will help customers develop an ...

Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) is seeking a Title I Career Planner to join our team at the IowaWORKS office in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Position Details Location: 300 W Broadway 13, Council Bluffs, IA ...

We do this by being the best provider of workforce solutions, which foster both technology and ... About the Role The AVP Business Development is a senior commercial leader responsible for driving ...

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Workforce Development information

See Iowa salary details

$27.2K

$62K

$122.6K

How much do workforce development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 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 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.

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 cities in Iowa are hiring for Workforce Development jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Workforce Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Workforce Development job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,990 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Career Planner

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 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

129th of 193 rated education and training


Job description

Job Title: Career Planner

Reports to Project Director

Position Classification: Non-exempt

Primary Objectives of Position: The Career Planner is responsible for providing employers with qualified candidates by developing local job seekers through planning, program services, and appropriate referrals.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Makes appropriate connection for job seekers to open positions resulting in employment.
  • Help businesses recruit the best applicants for their jobs.
  • Interviews customers to assess service needs.
  • Aids customers in developing, evaluating, and effectively initiating and implementing plans to enhance employment skills.
  • Identify job seeker barriers and refer to appropriate resources.
  • Provide career advisement through development of individual employment plans, referrals to jobs, placement in training/educations programs and job placement or advancement.
  • Implements prescribed program-related procedures and accurate case management.
  • Provides ongoing case management and serves as a liaison between customers and service providers.
  • Documents all customer interactions through well-written case notes.
  • Acquires and maintains knowledge of market research tools and industry/sector trends to guide job seekers to appropriate placement or education.
  • Ensures that case files meet or exceed programmatic requirements.
  • Provides valued and timely service to both job seekers and employers.
  • Utilizes Extreme Customer Service behaviors in all interactions with internal and external customers.

Other Job Duties: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be requested to perform other reasonable related duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor and other management as required. The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties as business requirements dictate. It is also understood that the company reserves the right to change work schedules as required, including requiring overtime.

Required Competencies: Extreme Customer Service focus, learning orientation, communication proficiency, teamwork orientation, technical capacity and recruiting experience.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in social services, Human Resources, Communications, Business, or equivalent experience is required.

Experience: 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 workforce experience and/or case management experience is preferred. Must possess demonstrated proficiency with verbal and written communication skills as well as demonstrated customer service skills and computer skills.

Skills/Abilities: Knowledge of employment and recruiting practices; ability to effectively assess customer employability skills and gaps; ability to understand and apply program policy; knowledge of business practices and industry sectors; ability to work effectively in a fast paced environment; strong familiarity with regulatory entities and their laws, policies, and guidance; ability to effectively read and interpret written procedures; ability to prepare routine reports; ability to enter data into computerized system; ability to maintain files in compliance with programmatic guidelines; skills in dealing with customers using Extreme Customer Service.

Additional Requirements: Must have valid driver's license and adequate vehicle insurance coverage.

Benefits: Insurance: Health, Life, Dental and Disability, PTO, Paid Holidays, 401K, Flexible Spending Account, Tuition Assistance