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Workforce Development Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Intern - JMG Pathways

Benton Harbor, MI

$14.25 - $19/hr

This role is designed to provide emerging professionals with hands-on experience in workforce development, youth engagement, and community partnership work while helping young people build confidence ...

Intern - JMG Pathways

Benton Harbor, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

This role is designed to provide emerging professionals with hands-on experience in workforce development, youth engagement, and community partnership work while helping young people build confidence ...

Director of Fund Development

Detroit, MI · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Maintain knowledge of trends and promising practices in the field of workforce development and education. Remains abreast of current labor market and occupational trends. * Establishes annual revenue ...

Showing results 21-40

Workforce Development information

See Michigan salary details

$25.3K

$57.5K

$113.7K

How much do workforce development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development in Michigan is $57,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $74,500.00 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 Michigan?

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

What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development jobs in Michigan?

For Workforce Development jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Workforce Development jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Workforce Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Workforce Development job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,524 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

WFD Programs Specialist - Family Development

Goodwill Industries

Battle Creek, MI

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Purpose or General Objective: Provide quality job development, income support, and coaching services that increase program participants' capacity to prepare for, obtain, and maintain gainful employment and financial stability to further family development.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Design, develop, and deliver quality participant-centered job development training to individuals and groups, in person and remotely.
  • Actively promote family and job development programs and services and recruit program participants through well-managed referral networks.
  • Actively assist participants with employment skills assessments, resume and cover letter writing, job search, interviewing, and interpersonal /soft skills needed to secure and maintain gainful employment.
  • Maintain an actionable database of employers for participant placement.
  • Coordinate and conduct family and job development programs and service awareness workshops, seminars and other activities.
  • Actively work with employees, employers, secondary and postsecondary education institutions and workforce solutions providers to identify and remove barriers to employment.
  • Actively engage employers to establish and maintain productive relationships needed to understand and address workforce needs.
  • Assist employers in revising standards which exclude applicants from job Demonstrate to the employers the effectiveness and profitability of the chronically unemployed by identifying jobs that GICMH participants could perform.
  • Timely and accurate entry, management and reporting of participant case records through utilization of Goodwill's database.
  • Assist in the coordination of participant financial support.
  • Maintain productive relationships with government agencies, non-profits, and businesses that offer public benefits and emergency support.
  • Maintain awareness and understanding of human services' programs needed to make referrals and to support participants seeking public benefits supports.
  • Represent Goodwill in a professional and dignified manner.
  • Work efficiently with team members to support participant success.
  • Actively participate in opportunities for professional development.
  • Collaborate with and support WFD team members to achieve goals.
  • Ensure that all practices are compliant with CARF accreditation standards.
  • Provide necessary program coverage during absences of other WFD staff.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.