Workforce and Community Specialist

Position Overview:

The Workforce and Community Specialist leads the strategic direction of workforce development programs, talent recruitment, and retention efforts. This role will be responsible for creating a centralized talent coordination system, implementing workforce development programs, and supporting entrepreneurship in Lee County.

The Workforce and Community Specialist works in concert with the Director of Economic Development and the Regional Director of Workforce Innovation to provide concierge service to the communities of Lee County. Providing leadership and resources to ensure that the communities of Lee County thrive, and the goals of each community’s strategic visions are implemented.

Key Responsibilities:

Talent Recruitment & Coordination:

· Lead the creation and implementation of a centralized resource connecting employers with talent, training programs, and other workforce solutions.

· Develop and implement a talent attraction strategy by Q2 2026, including marketing efforts to promote Lee County to professionals and businesses.

· Manage the Community Concierge program to help new residents and professionals acclimate to the area.

Workforce Development:

· Expand and manage existing workforce programs, such as Leadership 2.0, Lee County CEO, and Intern Connect, aiming to engage 80% of students annually.

· Serve as a liaison between industry and education, helping to align local skills with business needs and assist in the development of the Career Advantage Center.

Entrepreneurship & Innovation:

· Support the entrepreneurial ecosystem by relaunching the DreamBuilder program and establishing a startup fund for local entrepreneurs by Q4 2027.

· Collaborate with local partners to provide resources for startups, early-growth businesses, and innovative projects.

Community Engagement:

· Work closely with the President & CEO and Director of Economic Development to ensure that housing and quality of life efforts support workforce retention goals.

· Coordinate with Keokuk Main Street Inc. to identify and develop targeted projects that align with strategic community and economic goals, contributing to downtown revitalization and enhancing the quality of life in Lee County.

· Identify and pursue local, state, and federal grants to secure additional funding for community projects, workforce initiatives, and business support services.

Space Marketing and Long-Range Planning

· Develop and execute a marketing plan for available space at the Southeast Iowa Development Center (SID Center), actively engaging prospective tenants and businesses. Collaborate with the President & CEO to create a sustainability or exit strategy for the SID Center, ensuring its long-term viability as well as other available spaces for lease/co-op.

Childcare Initiatives:

· Support local childcare initiatives as part of broader community improvement efforts, ensuring that families in Lee County have access to quality childcare services.

Qualifications and Requirements:

· An associate’s degree is required.

· Strong project management skills, with the ability to lead multiple initiatives.

· Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

· Demonstrates a willingness to travel within Lee and Des Moines County for professional development, events, and meetings.

· Embraces challenges, seeks opportunities to learn, and continuously improves through feedback and new experiences.

· Skilled in Microsoft Word and other Microsoft Office programs, with the ability to create, edit, and manage professional documents efficiently.

· Exhibits professional and effective verbal and written communication abilities, fostering clarity, collaboration, and positive relationships.

· Open to new challenges and willing to step outside your comfort zone to learn, grow, and contribute to dynamic situations.

Preferred Qualifications:

· A Bachelor’s degree is preferred.

· Experience in workforce development, talent recruitment, or economic development.

· Knowledge of entrepreneurial ecosystems and experience in supporting small businesses.

· Proven ability to develop successful grant applications and manage post-award requirements.

· Demonstrated ability to develop and implement long-range plans for community assets, such as the SID Center, aligning with organizational and community goals.

· Reside in Lee County

· Some experience in content creation and marketing or is willing to learn.

Please include a short cover letter sharing your story and explaining why you are interested in being considered for this position.

Benefits:

· Full-time: Monday through Friday 8 AM – 4 PM

· 11 Paid Holidays

· Monthly stipend for insurance, retirement, and/or medical expenses

· Cell phone reimbursement

· 401 K 5% match

· 20 days of Paid Time Off per year

· Mileage reimbursement for travel

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Shift:

• Day shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $50,000