Workforce Program Development Lead

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Haverhill, MA

16d•$85,000 - $90,000

About The Position

The Workforce Program Development Lead will initiate the strategic research, design, and project management of high-impact workforce development initiatives. This role is focused on the innovation, launch, and pilot phases of new programs, creating scalable, industry-aligned training models that will transition to operational departments for ongoing delivery. Current initiatives include a Baseline Manufacturing Training Program and a Heat Pump and HVAC Training Program. The Workforce Program Development Lead will be responsible for conducting market research, engaging stakeholders, designing curriculum frameworks, identifying resource needs, and coordinating cross-functional teams. This position will also cultivate employer and community partnerships, pursue funding opportunities, and develop implementation plans that ensure program sustainability and impact.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in education, business development, workforce development, or a related field.
Minimum of five years of experience in program development, strategic planning, or business development, preferably in a workforce or education setting.
Proven ability to lead complex projects, manage cross-functional teams, and engage diverse stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to build and sustain employer and community partnerships.
Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills.
Commitment to equity, access, and inclusive program design.

Nice To Haves

Experience in advanced manufacturing, HVAC/clean energy, or technical training environments
Experience working in a Community College
Bilingual (Spanish/English)
Experience working with and supporting a culturally diverse population

Responsibilities

Strategic Program Development (20%) Lead the end-to-end development of workforce training programs, from concept to launch readiness.
Conduct labor market analysis, employer interviews, and competitive benchmarking to inform program design.
Define program goals, success metrics, and implementation timelines in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Develop comprehensive program plans, including staffing models, instructional space requirements, equipment requirements, and procurement strategies.
Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Building (20%) Build and maintain relationships with regional employers, workforce boards, and community organizations to ensure program relevance and support.
Convene advisory groups and pilot partners to gather feedback and validate program design.
Develop and execute outreach, recruitment, and marketing strategies to attract diverse student populations.
Curriculum & Instructional Design Coordination (20%) Collaborate with subject-matter experts and curriculum providers to select and adapt instructional content.
Identify assessment tools and learning outcome frameworks to ensure instructional quality, balance of technical and durable skills, and industry alignment.
Coordinate with academic departments and instructional designers to prepare materials for operational handoff.
Student Recruitment, Enrollment and Support (15%) Develop and execute outreach, recruitment, and marketing strategies to attract diverse student populations.
Identify and oversee the setup and delivery of comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and wraparound supports that address barriers to participation (e.g., childcare, transportation, financial insecurity, digital access).
Create and implement a system to monitor and report on student progress, retention, and completions, implementing interventions and supports as needed.
Project Management, Reporting and Compliance (10%) Facilitate collaboration across departments, including facilities, finance, marketing, and student services.
Track and report progress on program development milestones, stakeholder engagement, and resource planning.
Manage program budgets and reporting requirements for grants and institutional funding, ensuring compliance with funding agency requirements and institutional policies.
Prepare final program documentation, including curriculum outlines, partnership models, and launch plans.
Prepare documentation and transition plans for operational teams responsible for ongoing program delivery.
Funding & Resource Development (10%) In collaboration with the Grants Development Office, identify and pursue grant opportunities and funding sources to support future program development.
Develop budgets and resource acquisition plans for curriculum, equipment, and staffing.
Ensure compliance with funding agency requirements and institutional policies during the development phase.
Other Duties as Assigned (5%)