Workforce Development Specialist

Changing Perceptions

Workforce Development Specialist

Washington, DC
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Benefits:

    Bonus based on performance

    Competitive salary

    Free food & snacks

    Opportunity for advancement

    Paid time off

    Parental leave

    Training & development

    Wellness resources

    ABOUT THE ROLE: The Workforce Development Manager will play a central role in supporting justice-impacted individuals in securing and sustaining meaningful employment. Reporting to the Program Director, the Manager will design and implement individualized employment plans, facilitate job readiness training, and build relationships with employers and workforce partners. This position requires a balance of coaching, case management, and program development skills and is vital to our mission of supporting returning citizens in rebuilding stable and fulfilling lives.

    WHAT YOU’LL DO:

    As the Workforce Development Manager, you will:

    Workforce Development & Job Readiness:

    Conduct employment assessments to determine each participant’s strengths, goals, and barriers.

    Develop and manage individualized employment plans in collaboration with participants.

    Facilitate workshops on job readiness topics such as resume building, interview preparation, time management, workplace etiquette, and financial literacy.

    Coordinate vocational training opportunities and certifications that align with participant goals.

    Career Coaching & Support:

    Provide one-on-one coaching to guide participants through the job search process and into sustainable employment.

    Assist participants in navigating employment-related challenges, including criminal background disclosures and gaps in work history.

    Maintain accurate case notes, employment documentation, and data entry in the client tracking system.

    Monitor participant progress, provide retention support, and conduct regular check-ins after employment placement.

    Employer & Community Engagement:

    Build and maintain partnerships with local employers, workforce boards, and training providers.

    Identify job opportunities and advocate for the hiring of returning citizens.

    Host employer engagement events such as job fairs, info sessions, and hiring days.

    Collaborate with re-entry case managers and community partners to ensure a wraparound support system for participants.

    Program Development & Collaboration:

    Contribute to the ongoing improvement of workforce programming through participant feedback and industry best practices.

    Work closely with the broader Changing Perceptions team to coordinate referrals, services, and support plans.

    Prepare monthly reports and success stories that highlight employment outcomes and trends.

    WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR: Changing Perceptions may be the right fit for you if:

    You have 3–5 years of experience in workforce development, re-entry services, case management, or career coaching.

    You are passionate about equity and economic justice, particularly for individuals impacted by incarceration.

    You have a deep understanding of employment challenges facing returning citizens and are skilled at supporting barrier removal.

    You are a strong facilitator and communicator, able to motivate and build rapport with diverse individuals.

    You are highly organized, results-oriented, and comfortable managing a caseload in a fast-paced environment.

    You demonstrate cultural humility and a trauma-informed approach to service delivery.

    You are proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and data management systems.

    WHAT YOU WILL GET:

    A competitive salary of $65,000 per annum

    Full-time employment

    The opportunity for professional growth and advancement.

    A supportive and collaborative work environment.

    A competitive hybrid work model with in-office days on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

    Changing Perceptions, Inc. does not make hiring decisions on the basis of race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, age, disability, veteran status, religion, political affiliation, or any other Changing Perceptions, Inc. is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable work environment. We uphold a policy of equal opportunity employment and ensure all hiring decisions are guided by our internal policies and principles of fairness. Our organization does not tolerate discrimination of any kind and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, religion, political affiliation, marital or familial status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

    We value the diverse perspectives and experiences that each individual brings to our team, as they are essential to achieving our mission. Changing Perceptions is dedicated to creating a workplace where all individuals feel respected, empowered, and supported in their professional growth. protected by state, federal, or local law.

    Flexible work from home options available.