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Workforce Development Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

Career Planner

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) is seeking applicants for the position of Career Planner at our Iowa City, IA IowaWORKS office. Description of work and responsibilities: As a Career Planner you will ...

Medical Consultant - Physician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$72.79 - $103.37/hr

For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov No applicant for employment with the Iowa Department of Workforce Development can have a current, ongoing overpayment balance with Iowa Workforce ...

Builds and maintains relationships with external recruitment agencies, universities/schools, associations, workforce development agencies, and key community partners. * Identifies, coordinates, and ...

This role is accountable for safety, quality, productivity, workforce development, schedule attainment, and continuous improvement across all piping operations. The Operations Manager works closely ...

Showing results 21-40

Workforce Development information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$28.3K

$64.4K

$127.4K

How much do workforce development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development in Des Moines, IA is $64,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $83,400.00 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 Des Moines, IA?

The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Workforce Development jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Workforce Development jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Workforce Development jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Workforce Development jobs?

Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Workforce Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Workforce Development job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,410 per year, or $31 per hour.

Rehabilitation Counselor - Des Moines

State of Iowa

Des Moines, IA • Hybrid

$56K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description Make an Impact. Empower Careers. Strengthen Communities.

Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) is seeking a Rehabilitation Counselor to join our team at the IowaWorks office in Des Moines, Iowa. This role is more than a job- it is an opportunity to partner with individuals with disabilities as they build meaningful, sustainable employment and greater independence. If you are motivated by purpose-driven work, collaboration, and helping others reach their full potential, we encourage you to apply.

Position Details Location: 200 Army Post Rd., Des Moines, IA Schedule: Full-time | Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Work Flexibility: Hybrid telework and alternate schedule available after six months of employment and training has been completed. What You'll Do As a Rehabilitation Counselor, you will provide counseling, coordination, and comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities. You will guide participants through career exploration, planning, and placement while collaborating with families, schools, providers, and employers to remove barriers and create pathways to competitive, integrated employment

Core Responsibilities Deliver Pre-Employment Transition Services to potentially eligible students Interview applicants and support teams; gather medical, psychological, educational, and social information Determine eligibility and Significance of Disability classifications Develop Individualized Plans for Employment (IPEs) tailored to each participant's goals, interests, and abilities Provide counseling and guidance to support informed career decisions and long-term employment success Coordinate and authorize services necessary to achieve employment goals Interpret and apply federal regulations and agency policies consistently across cases Maintain accurate and timely case documentation within the case management system Collaborate with internal teams to meet compliance standards, timeframes, and agency goals Business & Community Engagement Build partnerships with employers, community providers, schools, and workforce organizations Educate businesses on disability inclusion and reasonable accommodations Develop on-the-job training, work-based learning, and apprenticeship opportunities Collaborate with the Iowa Workforce Development Business Engagement Team for employer outreach Support job carving and customized employment aligned with participant strengths and goals Additional Expectations Travel statewide to schools, rehabilitation facilities, businesses, and community locations Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development activities What We're Looking For Strong counseling, communication, and interpersonal skills Ability to analyze information, exercise sound judgment, and document decisions clearly Commitment to equity, accessibility, and inclusive employment practices Collaborative mindset and comfort working with diverse stakeholders Organizational skills and attention to compliance and timelines About the Agency Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) operates within Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) and is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve independence through employment. IWD is a statewide agency focused on connecting job seekers with opportunities and supporting employers in building strong, skilled workforces. Through IowaWORKS centers and partner offices across the state, IWD delivers demand-driven workforce services that strengthen Iowa's economy and communities.

Benefits of Working for the State of Iowa Joining IVRS means becoming part of a mission-driven public service team with a comprehensive benefits package: Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Generous Paid Time Off- vacation, sick leave (no accrual cap), and nine paid holidays IPERS Retirement Plan plus optional deferred compensation savings Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care Life Insurance & Long-Term Disability Coverage Employee Assistance & Discount Programs Professional development and career growth opportunities Click here to learn more about all of the amazing benefits the State of Iowa offers. The successful candidate must be able to pass a criminal background check conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety. The current Rehabilitation Counselor pay grade is 28.

For Rehabilitation Counselor positions with a bachelor's degree, the position will be capped at 85%. Why This Role Matters Every plan you build, every partnership you create, and every individual you support contributes to a more inclusive workforce and stronger Iowa communities. This position offers the chance to see direct, lasting impact in the lives of others while building a meaningful public service career.

If you're ready to combine purpose with profession, we'd love to meet you. The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify; a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States.

The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov. No applicant for employment with the Iowa Department of Workforce Development can have a current, ongoing overpayment balance with Iowa Workforce Development without a payment plan in place

Selected positions will be subject to a criminal background check. Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification: All of the following (a and b): (a) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in a human-services-related field; and (b) A total of one year of graduate-level education and/or full-time work in professional vocational rehabilitation counseling services or human services field, where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university coursework in rehabilitation counseling, human resources, school counseling, mental health counseling, social work, psychology, education, or a closely-related field equals one year of full-time experience. All of the following (a and b): (a) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field; and (b) A total of twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university coursework in rehabilitation counseling, human resources, school counseling, mental health counseling, social work, psychology, education, or a closely-related field.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description. Additional Qualification Requirements Travel may be required for positions in this class. Employees must arrange transportation to and from assigned work areas.


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State of Iowa logo

About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939