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Workforce Development information

See Lafayette, LA salary details

$22.4K

$50.9K

$100.7K

How much do workforce development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development in Lafayette, LA is $50,937.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,800.00 and $66,000.00 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 Lafayette, LA?

The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Lafayette, LA are:

What job categories do people searching Workforce Development jobs in Lafayette, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Workforce Development jobs in Lafayette, LA are:

What cities near Lafayette, LA are hiring for Workforce Development jobs?

Cities near Lafayette, LA with the most Workforce Development job openings:

Workforce Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Workforce Development job openings in Lafayette, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,937 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Workforce Development Specialist I - Lafayette

The Lighthouse for The Blind in New Orleans

Lafayette, LA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
JOB SUMMARY
The Workforce Development Specialist I (WDSI) plays a vital role on the Pathways to Success Project team, providing vocational rehabilitation services through the Supported Employment - Individual Placement Model. Core responsibilities for this position include vocational assessments, teaching job readiness skills, job development/placement assistance, job coaching, development of Work Based Learning Experiences (WBLE), and extended follow-along services for adults. Additionally, the WDSI plays an integral role in providing Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) to high school juniors and seniors. A successful WDSI develops relationships with local businesses, advocates with potential employers to facilitate job matches, engages in outreach events, communicates professionally in oral and written form, conducts compelling presentations, and manages time effectively.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
The Workforce Development Specialist I will be responsible for the following core job duties:
  1. Successfully develop strategic partnerships with businesses and employment stakeholders that advance employment opportunities for PWD across the service region.
  2. Assist PWD with developing pre-employment skills, such as resume writing, application completion, appropriate dress and hygiene, interview skills, and workplace etiquette.
  3. Collaborate with Lighthouse team members to implement the vocational rehabilitation component of the PTS Disability Innovation Fund demonstration project to drive program success and optimize positive outcomes for participants. Support the development of work-based learning experiences (WBLEs) for participants within the Lighthouse and in businesses across the service region.
  4. Provide direct services through State Vocational Rehab and PTS programs, which include conducting evaluations, supporting Individualized Plans for Employment, job developing, job readiness skills training, job coaching, offering ongoing job support, developing WBLE, and delivering Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).
  5. Manage a robust caseload of participants who are current job seekers with disabilities. Meet required departmental standards for successful client placements.
  6. Collaborate with employers to create unique job opportunities specific to client goals, interests, and abilities.
  7. Engage with potential employers to solicit interest in strong job candidates. Participate in outreach and recruitment activities by coordinating and attending job fairs and related activities.
  8. Document all job development and participant engagement activities. Track caseload movement weekly by procedure, recording all activities in Salesforce and on state forms. Documentation must be clear, concise, and factual, while maintaining a tone that is professional and unbiased.
  9. Administer Pre-ETS to teens according to Lighthouse Louisiana's strategic goals in compliance with Louisiana Rehabilitation Services requirements.
  10. Continuously strive to enhance knowledge and skills that support the success of PTS programs and participant outcomes.
  11. Collaborate with the Workforce Development Manager to create and implement training programs that advance the field for vocational rehabilitation professionals.
  12. Participate in education and advocacy events to promote inclusion for PWD. Engage with the community at outreach events, representing the Lighthouse with superior polish and professionalism.
  13. Foster a team environment with effective communication and a coordinated approach to providing services. Follow all Lighthouse policies and standard operating procedures.
  14. Maintain confidentiality of information and material at the highest standards.
  15. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements
JOB QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
  1. Education: Bachelor's degree in education, social services, vocational rehabilitation, or related field required. Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) credential required or willingness to attain CESP certification within one year of employment.
  2. Special Knowledge/Skills: Knowledge of disability and factors that affect successful employment. Ability to manage a caseload and flex time to achieve all weekly job tasks. Ability to effectively assess consumer strengths and weaknesses to determine a plan for overcoming challenges to employment stability. Effective teaching skills with ability to assess and adjust coaching to motivate and optimize progress. Strong troubleshooting skills. Superior oral and written communication skills. Ability to develop and perform professional presentations. Proficient in the use of MS Office tools.
  3. Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of work experience supporting individuals with disabilities. At least 1 years' experience with case management. Experience working with teens preferred. Experience completing assessments and drafting professional reports preferred. Stable employment history required.
  4. Supervisory Responsibility: None.
  5. Physical: High energy and stamina. Able to effectively perform the specified duties. Ability to travel throughout the region to provide services across southeast Louisiana. Have the physical ability to perform tasks requiring bending, lifting, stooping, reaching overhead, and other tasks. Ability to stand/sit for prolonged periods while demonstrating or modeling training techniques with adaptation as needed.
  6. Personality Traits: Professional, self-motivated, enthusiastic, confident, dependable, well-organized, flexible, able to motivate others, personable, well spoken, patient, punctual, adaptive, creative, confident, and a positive thinker. Able to work both independently and as a collaborator. Capable of preserving confidential and sensitive information.
  7. Work Conditions: Office and community setting with weekly travel within the service region. Must be adaptable to a variety of work environments.
  8. Work Schedule: 40 hours per week. May require an occasional evening, weekend, or holiday work to support unique consumer needs. Weekly work schedule may fluctuate.
  9. Pre-employment testing required: Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results from background check and drug testing. Must also meet federal suitability requirements.
  10. Must have a valid driver's license with a safe driving record. Must have a reliable vehicle and be able to drive long distances.

This job description does not imply that these are the only duties to be performed. The incumbent in this position will perform such other tasks as may be required for the effective operation of the Division/Department upon request by his/her supervisor.
At Lighthouse Louisiana, we are committed to the principles of equal employment. We comply with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities, and all other employment laws and regulations. We are dedicated to the fulfillment of this policy regarding all aspects of employment including, but not limited to recruiting, hiring, placement, transfer, training, promotion, rates of pay (and other compensation), termination, and all other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment. In addition, we take affirmative actions to recruit, hire, promote and retain veterans.
Salary Description
22.00 -24.00

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