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Workforce Development Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Development Manager

Portland, OR · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

We build communities from the inside out through workforce development, housing and homemaking, and supportive sheltering. Position Description: Cultivate Initiatives is entering an exciting stage of ...

We build communities from the inside out through workforce development, housing and homemaking, and supportive sheltering. Position Description: Cultivate Initiatives is entering an exciting stage of ...

We build communities from the inside out through workforce development, housing and homemaking, and supportive sheltering. Position Description: Cultivate Initiatives is entering an exciting stage of ...

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Workforce Development information

See Portland, OR salary details

$30K

$68.3K

$135K

How much do workforce development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for workforce development in Portland, OR is $68,264.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $88,400.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Workforce Development jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Workforce Development jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Workforce Development jobs in Portland, OR? For Workforce Development jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Workforce Development jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Workforce Development job openings:
Workforce Development Program Manager

Workforce Development Program Manager

Lines for Life

Portland, OR • On-site

$73K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Workforce Development Program Manager

Status: Full-Time/Exempt

Reports To: Director of Clinical Training/Assistant Director of Crisis Lines Support Programs

Location: This role is required to regularly work in-person at the Portland location.

Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm with occasional evening and weekend hours as needed.

Salary: $73,000 - $77,000, depending on experience, plus an additional $2,080 if licensed. Benefits information below.


About the Organization: Lines for Life is a regional non-profit that is dedicated to preventing substance abuse and suicide. We offer help and hope to individuals and communities and promote mental health for all. Our work addresses a spectrum of needs that include intervention, prevention, and advocacy. We educate, train, and advocate to prevent issues of substance abuse, mental illness, and thoughts of suicide from reaching crisis levels. But when a crisis arises, or support is needed, we are available 24/7/365 to intervene with personalized help.

Workforce Development Program Manager Position Overview: This position will provide direct support and oversight to the Crisis Lines Workforce Development Program. This role plays a pivotal role in managing WFD staff, overseeing recruitment, training, and onboarding of volunteers and interns. This role also supports the overall mission of Lines for Life by running a volunteer and workforce development program that advances our overall mission of stopping substance abuse, preventing suicide, and supporting mental wellbeing.

Workforce Development Program Manager Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrate the culture of Lines for Life by modeling behavior that supports the organization’s goals and philosophies.
  • Lead, motivate, and support a large team of volunteers, interns, and staff in a time-sensitive and demanding environment by maintaining positive morale, high work standards, and team cohesion. Provide training and supervision to direct reports, including comprehensive performance management.
  • Lead program through strategic planning and development including policy creation and planning for long-term sustainability and success.
  • Lead or support data collection/analysis and reporting deliverables for internal and external partners as needed.
  • Develop and oversee volunteer recruitment, retention, and recognition plan. This may include attending in-person volunteer recruitment and networking events, and delivering presentations.
  • Oversee staffing and scheduling needs for WFD program in collaboration with Crisis Lines leadership and WFD program staff.
  • Oversee QA and call monitoring process for WFD program, including responding to any complaints, providing feedback for growth support plans.
  • Maintain WFD platforms and tools including but not limited to the volunteer and WFD internal website, the WFD Program Manual, and collaborating with the Communications department to maintain the external facing program website and WFD marketing materials.
  • Provide direct supervision for Volunteer Workforce Development Supervisors, Internship Supervisor, interns, and other Workforce Development positions as needed.
  • Manage in-office logistics for program in coordination with Office Manager, IT, and others. This includes but is not limited to coordinating logistical needs in the physical space to ensure a safe and welcoming environment, and coordinating volunteer appreciation events.
  • Collaborate with Crisis Lines leadership and Training Department as needed to ensure consistency in service delivery, especially as changes occur, and adherence to contractual and accreditation requirements.

Workforce Development Program Manager Required Qualifications

  • Graduate degree in psychology; social work; or a behavioral science field.
  • At least 2 years of crisis intervention experience.
  • At least 2 years of experience supervising staff or volunteers.
  • Ability to think systematically to coordinate complex schedules
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to effectively use social media to communicate
  • Ability to supervise and provide constructive feedback
  • Strong networking and recruiting skills
  • Proficiency in a web-based computer environment
  • Able to stay calm when handling stressful situations and skilled in problem-solving.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Able to provide sound clinical judgment.

Workforce Development Program Manager Preferred Qualifications

  • Masters degree in social work

Benefits information: Medical, dental, vision insurance, short- and long-term disability, life insurance premiums; a matching 401K plan; a flexible spending plan; access to professional development funds, licensure supervision at no cost to employee; PSLF repayment; an employee assistance program; and a free fitbit.


This job description is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities, but constitutes a general definition of the position's scope and function in the company.


All Lines for Life employees must be approved to work by the Oregon Department of Human Services’ Background Check Unit. Background checks are completed after a conditional offer of employment has been extended.

EEO: Lines for Life strives to create a diverse, inclusive environment to better represent the communities that we serve. We are an equal opportunity employer. Lines for Life shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. However, it shall not be a violation of this clause for Lines for Life to extend a publicly announced preference in employment to Indians living on or near an Indian reservation, in connection with employment opportunities on or near an Indian reservation, as permitted by 41 CFR 60-1.5.