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Workforce Development Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Within a union-based environment, the CHRO leads labor relations, coordinates collective bargaining efforts while overseeing recruitment and retention, workforce development, compensation and ...

Policy Advisor (OPA2)

Portland, OR · On-site

$5.4K - $8.3K/mo

... workforce development. The selected candidate may work from the Portland, Salem, or Eugene office. Note: Bilingual Preferred, while bilingual skills are not required, we encourage bilingual ...

On-Call Hub Host

Portland, OR · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

We build communities from the inside out through community engagement and action, workforce development, housing & homemaking, and supportive sheltering. Position Summary: This role is responsible ...

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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:
Coordinator, Contractor Development

Coordinator, Contractor Development

Elevate Energy

Portland, OR • Remote

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Coordinator, Contractor Development

The Coordinator, Contractor Development creates a meaningful impact by supporting projects in the team’s portfolio to increase workforce and business trainees’ participation in the clean energy economy. The position plays a pivotal role in the implementation of the Clean Energy Workforce and Contractor Training programs. The Coordinator, Contractor Development works with project managers on programs that directly support the advancement of people and small businesses who have been historically and currently marginalized in the energy sector and building trades.


The Coordinator, Contractor Development reports directly to Associate Director, Contractor Development and is part of the Workforce and Contractor Development Team. This position is located in Pierce County or King County, Washington or the Portland Metro Region, Oregon and is currently hybrid. There may be instances where onsite visits and travel are required.

Responsibilities
  • Communicate Elevate and Workforce and Contractor Development team’s Vision, Mission, and Values and program information to stakeholders during informal and formal gatherings.
  • Attend in-person and virtual events relating to Elevate’s Workforce and Contractor Development work.
  • Conduct outreach efforts to recruit participants for enrollment in programming.
  • Support program applicants and participants with program paperwork and understanding requirements.
  • Review program applicant information and connect participants to relevant Elevate programs and/or refer to resources available in the community.
  • Track and follow up with participants for ongoing support and continuous engagement.
  • Build and maintain relationships with participants, community partners, and other key contacts.
  • Plan and conduct assigned program activities both virtually and on-site with participants (e.g. coordinating training space, facilitating workshops, confirming speakers, coordinating participant stipends and wrap around supports, etc.) with guidance from the Project Manager and/or team leadership.
  • Provide case management and other direct in-person services to participants.
  • Maintain organized data and records using standardized processes, systems, and tools.
  • Communicate program data, insights, and information to project managers and team leadership for reporting and to support program refinement.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications and skills
  • Minimum two (2) years of community building, outreach, small business development or similar experience OR if a candidate does not have two (2) years of experience, completion of related certificate, associate, or bachelor’s program will be considered, such as social work, business coaching, construction, clean energy or energy efficiency.
  • Minimum one (1) years working in clean energy or energy efficiency industries OR completion of related certificate, associate, or bachelor’s program.
  • Demonstrated commitment to the advancement of communities who have been historically and currently marginalized.
  • Able to clearly identify multiple paths forward when faced with a barrier and adjust plans.
  • Flexible to changing and new situations and offers fresh ideas and new approaches.
  • Authentic relationship development and community-building skills.
  • Ensures actions promote a positive workplace culture including providing assistance and perspectives to team.
  • Listen to gain understanding, and clearly and effectively delivers thoughts and feedback.
  • Demonstrates empathy and an understanding for others.
  • Skilled at following through on tasks without reminders and can assess a situation and act without direction or guidance from someone else.
  • Use time efficiently and prioritizes completing tasks on or before deadlines.
  • Proficient in verbal and written communication.
  • Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions.
  • Use of Microsoft office and ability to support participants with basic computer skills.
  • Use standard tools and technologies to track participant and program data.
  • Driver’s license and access to reliable transportation to attend in-person meetings.
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.
  • Ability to travel locally up to 30% of the time.
Organization DescriptionWe design and implement programs that reduce costs, protect people and the environment, and ensure the benefits of clean and efficient energy use reach those who need them most.

At Elevate, the greatest asset of our organization is the kind of people we attract. Elevate employees co-create our energetic and collaborative environment, where constant learning and service to others take priority. We empower individuals to challenge conventional thinking in pursuit of innovation and we seek dynamic, hardworking team members who are inspired to work with people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Every day we make a difference by placing our team, clients, and community partners first. From our mission to our focus on staff wellbeing and career development opportunities, there’s no better place to grow your career than Elevate.

CompensationThe total compensation for this position includes health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, etc.), defined contribution benefit (401k with contribution), professional development, generous paid time off policies, and a flexible schedule. This is an exempt individual contributor position with a salary range of $55,000 - $65,000, based on experience.

Anti-Discrimination PolicyElevate is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or job applicant based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or marital status. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, termination, promotion, transfer, layoff, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.ADA AccommodationElevate will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with a disability so that they can perform the essential functions of a job unless doing so causes a direct threat to these individuals or others in the workplace, and the threat cannot be eliminated by reasonable accommodation, or if the accommodation creates an undue hardship to Elevate. Contact the People Team with any questions or requests for accommodations.