Workforce Development Specialist

Overview

This position is open until filled with an initial application review to take place on July 9, 2026. The starting salary range for this position is $6,008.00 - $6,670.00 per month depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable. A cover letter and resume are required with your application.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The Workforce Development Specialist (CWDS Curriculum) under the general direction of the Workforce Development Supervisor, is responsible for developing curricula that meet the needs of Child Welfare Services partners. The role also includes responsibilities for the facilitation of workforce development deliveries and meetings.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• PROJECT MANAGEMENT (40%)
  • Project manage the development, revision, and piloting of CWDS curriculum (this may include curricula for classroom-based or virtual training, coaching, webinars, podcasts, micro-learning, and/or eLearning) to ensure compliance with the contract/scope of work.
  • Participate in and represent the Academy for Professional Excellence in statewide and internal committee(s) as appropriate to facilitate and inform curriculum development and revision projects.
  • Develop and strengthen relationships with CWDS Staff, Academy staff, partners, and curriculum writers through email and virtual communication to address needs, concerns, and questions.
  • Communicate with the Academy, CWDS, and statewide evaluation teams to remain apprised of macro evaluation methodology and ensure we are developing quality curricula (per Academy standards).
  • Develop and maintain project management templates, dashboards, reporting tools, workflows, and documentation within the Academy project management system.
  • Stay informed on project management best practices and apply new tools, systems, and approaches to improve efficiency, communication, and outcomes.
  • Collaborate with LMS, Product, and cross-functional teams to improve systems, workflows, and project management processes.
  • Demonstrate initiative, sound decision-making, adaptability, and accountability while managing multiple priorities and adjusting plans as needed.
• CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT (40%)
  • Develop, design, write, update, revise, and adapt existing curricula (standardized and non-standardized) to fit the skill and knowledge of the learners, including but not limited to facilitation guides and PowerPoint presentations.
  • Apply best practices in adult learning, instructional design, accessibility, culturally-responsiveness, and workforce development throughout curriculum development.
  • Stay abreast of state and federal best practices in public child welfare, adult learning theory, workforce development, and implementation.
  • Participate in curriculum evaluation design and implementation through collaboration with Evaluation team partners.
  • Engage in professional development opportunities and integrate learning into project management and curriculum writing processes.
  • Review and provide feedback on curriculum and training delivery.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships, especially with CWDS Consultant team, curriculum writers, subject matter experts, and service providers and employ conflict resolution tactics when necessary.
  • Provide guidance and feedback to curriculum writers using best practices in instructional design and adult learning.
  • Lead and facilitate meetings with both internal and external partners.
  • Listen to feedback, identify training needs, and adjust curriculum plans to support successful outcomes.
  • Guide curriculum revisions to keep content current, relevant, and aligned with strong learning outcomes for adult learners.
  • Attend, observe, and evaluate pilot trainings as needed.
• PROGRAM SUPPORT (10%)
  • Develop policies, procedures, and guidance documents for curriculum development and project management processes, and conduct or facilitate training as needed to support implementation and consistency.
  • Work collaboratively with CWDS teams to advance organizational goals.
  • Attend regularly scheduled meetings across teams. (Ex. LXD, LMS, Fiscal, Evaluation).
  • Support program and Academy-wide communication, culture, and functioning.
  • Follow policy and procedure and complete travel and other reimbursements promptly and accurately.
  • Project manage, assist, or participate in special projects and committees as needed, when appropriate, and as designated/specified by the Workforce Development Programs leadership team.
  • Demonstrate strong facilitation skills when running meetings and committees and managing projects.
  • Attend statewide committee meetings as assigned (travel may be required) and represent Southern CA counties and Academy perspectives in reviewing statewide requirements for curriculum development.
  • Maintain a general understanding of Southern CA County's specific Agency needs through a review of Agency SIPs (System Improvement Plans) and individual County initiatives, policies, and procedures as needed.
• FACILITATION (5%)
  • Pilot and support the implementation of curricula for the Southern region of CA.
  • Prepare and deliver virtual and in-person classes and training as needed.
• OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED (5%)
  • Perform other duties as assigned which are in the best interests of the Academy for Professional Excellence.
  • Travel to off-site locations for Academy and Program meetings (primarily in Riverside and San Diego).

QUALIFICATIONS & SPECIAL SKILLS

• Knowledge and Abilities:
• Ability to display motivation and strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to display organization and meet deadlines.
• Ability to display good judgment and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to demonstrate a high level of cross-cultural sensitivity.
• Fundamental written and oral communication skills, including a sound foundation in English grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed and recovery-oriented principles.
• Ability to work in a team setting & relate well to others within the Academy for Professional Excellence environment.
• Ability to understand and follow posted work rules and procedures.
• Ability to effectively handle interpersonal interactions at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to interact effectively with co-workers, partners, and professionals.
• Strong knowledge of adult learning theories and instructional design practices, including experiential and learner-centered approaches and current workforce development trends.
• Ability to provide consultation on curriculum goals, learning objectives, learner engagement, and assessment strategies for adult learners.
• Skilled at identifying needs, recommending effective solutions, and supporting successful implementation across learning environments.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and make sound decisions with minimal supervision.
• Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex projects and meet deadlines.
• Ability to develop curricula in a variety of modalities.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Ability to carry out assignments without detailed instructions.
• Ability to travel within California - primarily southern California regions - and to national conferences when applicable.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Education:
• Equivalent to a bachelor's degree and/or equivalent training and administrative work experience involving study, analysis, and/or evaluation leading to the development or improvement of administrative policies, procedures, practices, or programs.
• Experience:
• 6-years of progressively responsible experience performing varied or specialized administrative and analytical duties and/or service as a program administrator.