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Workforce Development Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Workforce Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30K

$68.4K

$135.2K

How much do workforce development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development in Chicago, IL is $68,352.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $88,500.00 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Workforce Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Workforce Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Workforce Development jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Workforce Development job openings:

Workforce Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Workforce Development job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,352 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Director of Workforce Development

Socket.dev

South Elgin, IL • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description Job Summary:

The Director of Workforce Development leads the strategic planning, project management, and continuous improvement of the BGCNCIL’s workforce readiness portfolio, with a primary focus on our high-yield signature initiatives — Industry Clubs and the Up Next program. This role owns the end-to-end execution of these programs, from timeline and budget management to outcomes tracking, ensuring that Club youth are equipped with the skills, credentials, exposure, and networks needed to succeed in today's workforce.

The Director will also cultivate and manage strategic partnerships with industry associations, educational institutions, and community organizations to expand opportunities, resources, and real-world experiences that complement and strengthen the Club's workforce development programming.

Program & Project Management
  • Serve as the lead project manager for Industry Clubs and the Up Next program, overseeing scope, timelines, budgets, staffing, and deliverables from planning through implementation and evaluation.
  • Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and outcome metrics for each program, using data to drive continuous improvement and demonstrate impact to funders and leadership.
  • Using the strategies and methods, operationalize through annual, monthly, weekly, and daily program plans using proven curriculum for the school year and summer programs.
  • Design and implement program plans and initiatives to ensure consistent, high quality workforce development program delivery across all sites.
Partnerships & Collaboration
  • Identify, cultivate, and steward strategic partnerships with local organizations, industry associations, workforce boards, community colleges, trade schools to expand programming and mentorships opportunities.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for community and business partners, building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships that enhance workforce development programs and resource access.
  • Coordinate community engagement activities including but not limited to guest speakers, site visits, and field trips to complement and enhance WFD programming.
  • Represent the Boys & Girls Club at community events, coalitions, and workforce development committees to raise visibility and identify new partnership and funding opportunities.
  • Collaborate with the development team to support grant applications and sponsorships that fund workforce programming, providing partnership data and program outcomes as needed.
  • Ensure partners and collaborators are raving fans of Boys & Girls Clubs.
Collect Data & Analyze Results
  • Work alongside the Senior Director of Continuous Quality Improvement and the entire operations team to ensure proper metrics are in place to collect the data that will demonstrate the results of the Workforce Development program and activities in place.
  • Educate and train the site teams on what data needs to be collected, the methods for collecting the data, and what they need to be doing on a regular basis to support the efforts.
  • Conduct regular check-ins with Club staff to gather information on any obstacles that site teams are encountering and offer helpful solutions through coaching and providing resources that result in them achieving success.
  • Collect, analyze, and create a report that can be presented to the Operations Team, Leadership Team, Board of Directors, and partners.
  • Use the data collected to modify and enhance workforce development programs moving forward.
  • On a monthly basis, collect specific stories, pictures, and mission moments that can be used to market stakeholders the impact the WFD focus is having on particular members
Requirements
  • A Bachelor’s Degree is preferred with a minimum of 2 years’ experience or 5 years’ experience in youth development, workforce development, project management or a related field.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to drive a 12-passenger van
  • Demonstrated critical competencies in communication, strategic thinking, collaborating, and program delivery are a must.
  • Ability to translate broad goals into achievable steps. Anticipates and solves problems and takes advantage of opportunities, is a self-starter and team player.
  • As a BGCNCIL leader, this position requires an individual with knowledge of and experience in management and administration.
  • Knowledge in the following areas is required: volunteer and partnership engagement, college and career readiness resources, Microsoft Office, program development and implementation, and youth development.
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