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Workforce Development Jobs in Iowa City, IA (NOW HIRING)

Career Training & Development Opportunities Health and Work/Life Balance Benefits * Paid Time Off ... To foster a culture of inclusivity throughout our workforce, workplace, and marketplace ...

Sr External Workforce Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Career Training & Development Opportunities Health and Work/Life Balance Benefits * Paid Time Off ... To foster a culture of inclusivity throughout our workforce, workplace, and marketplace ...

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Workforce Development information

See Iowa City, IA salary details

$28.4K

$64.6K

$127.7K

How much do workforce development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development in Iowa City, IA is $64,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $83,700.00 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 popular job titles related to Workforce Development jobs in Iowa City, IA? For Workforce Development jobs in Iowa City, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Workforce Development jobs in Iowa City, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Workforce Development jobs in Iowa City, IA are:
What cities near Iowa City, IA are hiring for Workforce Development jobs? Cities near Iowa City, IA with the most Workforce Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Workforce Development job openings in Iowa City, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,579 per year, or $31 per hour.
Workforce Development & Education Partnerships Manager

Workforce Development & Education Partnerships Manager

Diligent Solutions

Cedar Rapids, IA

Other

Posted yesterday


Job description

Job Summary:
The Workforce Development & Education Partnerships Manager leads workforce development initiatives that strengthen talent pipelines and align education with industry workforce needs. This role serves as a liaison between employers, educational institutions, workforce organizations, economic development partners, and community stakeholders. 

This role is ideal for a strategic relationship-builder who enjoys connecting industry, education, and workforce partners to create sustainable talent pipelines and workforce development opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:

  • Support partnership exploration with K-12 schools, technical colleges, community colleges, universities, workforce boards, chambers, and economic development organizations. 

  • Facilitate curriculum alignment discussions to ensure educational programs reflect current industry workforce needs. 

  • Coordinate discussions for workforce development initiatives, career pathways, internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and work-based learning opportunities. 

  • Manage stakeholder engagement activities, including meetings, site visits, presentations, advisory councils, and partnership events. 

  • Develop workforce development strategies, action plans, reports, and executive briefings. 

  • Track partnership outcomes, workforce metrics, and talent pipeline activities. 

  • Coordinate project logistics, meeting schedules, communications, and follow-up actions across multiple stakeholders. 

  • Support career awareness, workforce marketing, and student engagement initiatives.

Key Competencies:

  • Workforce Development 

  • Education Partnerships 

  • Curriculum Alignment 

  • Stakeholder Engagement 

  • Project Management 

  • Strategic Communication 

  • Relationship ManagementÂ