Workforce Development Specialist

MUST RESIDE IN ILLINOIS *Field-based work environment with work conducted from a home office when not onsite at client facilities *Frequent travel throughout the state to support client engagements and onsite activities *Work authorization required. IMEC is unable to sponsor visas for this role. The Workforce Development Specialist is a hands-on advisor who leads the implementation of workforce improvement solutions for manufacturers across Illinois. As a subject matter expert, this role delivers high-impact solutions tailored to client needs, including workforce training systems, onboarding, training and development, career pathways, and performance improvement initiatives. The Workforce Development Specialist partners with client teams to design and implement sustainable workforce solutions that strengthen employee development, align workforce strategies with business objectives, and drive measurable improvements in organizational performance. Key Responsibilities Engage with manufacturers to understand workforce development challenges and design solutions that strengthen onboarding, training effectiveness, and employee development, that leads to strong retention, and improved organizational performance. Provide strategic guidance to manufacturers that helps them build a long-term approach to workforce development success. Provide training, coaching, and workforce performance expertise based on client needs and area(s) of specialization. Develop proposals and solution plans in collaboration with Regional Managers Manage and execute workforce performance engagements from planning through implementation and outcome tracking, including: Conducting workforce needs diagnostics to identify capability gaps, workforce training challenges, and improvement opportunities. Designing and implementing structured onboarding programs that improve employee integration and time to proficiency. Developing and implementing workforce training systems, including Learning Management System (LMS) integration and training processes that improve consistency and effectiveness. Designing apprenticeship programs and defined career pathway frameworks that support employee development and long-term workforce sustainability. Developing supervisors by providing tools, frameworks, coaching approaches, and training solutions that strengthen their ability to effectively lead, coach, and develop employees. Develop custom curriculum including educational videos, job aids, training presentations, and other materials as required. Serve as a trusted advisor and workforce performance lead throughout the client engagement lifecycle. Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of workforce development solutions offered by IMEC. Provide thought leadership in workforce performance and development through webinars, public speaking engagements, and published articles. Support the development of third-party resources and strategic partnerships that strengthen workforce performance solutions and services. Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree preferred 3+ years of experience working with manufacturing organizations, including leadership, workforce development, talent management, training, human resources, organizational development, or consulting responsibilities Strong background in workforce development, talent management, training systems, organizational development, human resources, leadership development, or a related field Experience working with small and mid-sized manufacturers is a plus. Additional attributes include: Ability to manage multiple client engagements simultaneously and meet project deadlines Adaptability in diverse environments, including varied manufacturing sectors, multiple touch points across organizations, and company cultures Entrepreneurial and client-focused approach with the ability to assess varying levels of organizational readiness and tailor solutions that align with client needs, priorities, and continuous improvement goals Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce), Microsoft Office Suite, and virtual collaboration platforms Willingness to travel across the state and work in both remote and onsite environments Work Environment Remote/Field-Based Work Environment: Work is performed from a home office when not onsite at manufacturing facilities. The role combines independent remote work with regular in-person client engagement. Frequent in-state travel by automobile and occasional travel by aircraft. Requires driving, sitting for extended periods, and working in facilities that may not be ADA accessible. Extended hours and weekend work may be required. Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. Please submit an electronic application, including (1) cover letter, (2) resume, and (3) the names and contact information for three references. IMEC, The University of Illinois, Northern Illinois University, Southern Illinois University, and Bradley University conduct background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of contingent offer of employment. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. IMEC and its Subrecipient organizations, including Bradley University, SIU, NIU, and UIC are EOE/AA/M/F/Disabled/Veteran Employers. About IMEC: IMEC is a team of improvement specialists dedicated to providing manufacturers in Illinois with the tools and techniques to excel and compete globally. The experienced hands-on team at IMEC works closely with its clients to plan critical business improvements in all areas of their organization from: Leading their Company, Planning for Success, Growing their Business, Improving their Operations, Focusing on their People, and Deciding with Data. With more than 50 full-time staff and partners positioned statewide, IMEC delivers the local expertise to not only plan and strategize but to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of client improvements. In fact, IMEC assists more than 2,500 companies each year with successful business improvement projects. As a result, IMEC has demonstrated a return on investment that exceeds 19:1 . This is made possible as organizations become more effective and efficient. IMEC team members enjoy their jobs because of the challenge of working with a variety of organizations in a broad range of industries. They also gain satisfaction from providing assistance and advisement to help organizations succeed in a demanding marketplace. Click HERE to learn more about IMEC.