Workforce Development Manager

The Workforce Development Manager is responsible for managing and implementing BioCT’s workforce development initiatives to strengthen Connecticut’s life sciences talent pipeline. This position works collaboratively with industry, academic, workforce, and government partners to develop programs and partnerships that prepare students, job seekers, and incumbent workers for careers in the life sciences industry. The Workforce Development Manager oversees workforce programs, employer engagement activities, career pathway initiatives, and grant-funded projects aligned with BioCT’s strategic priorities. As a key team member supporting the New Haven Innovation Cluster Grant, this role advances workforce objectives by expanding industry partnerships, developing talent pathways, increasing awareness of life sciences careers, and connecting employers with a skilled and diverse workforce. Workforce Strategy & Partnerships Engage employers to understand workforce challenges, hiring needs, and emerging skill gaps. Coordinate career pathway, internship, mentorship, and work-based learning programs. Monitor workforce trends and support strategies that address industry talent needs. Participate in workforce committees, coalitions, advisory groups, and statewide initiatives. Coordinate activities of the BioCT Board Workforce Development Subcommittee. Program Management Plan, implement, and evaluate workforce programs, including career pathways, internships, mentorships, work-based learning, and professional development initiatives. Support career exploration activities, workforce events, and employer engagement opportunities. Manage BioCT workforce resources, including career platforms and tools that connect employers with talent. Outreach & Engagement Develop outreach strategies to increase awareness of life sciences careers and workforce programs. Support communications with employers, students, job seekers, academic partners, and workforce stakeholders. Represent BioCT at workforce events, meetings, BioCT signature events, and community engagement activities. Seek new sponsors, partners, and grant opportunities. Grant Management & Reporting Manage grant deliverables, timelines, budgets, documentation, contracts, and reporting requirements. Track program activities and prepare progress reports, impact summaries, and updates for funders, partners, leadership, and the Board. Data & Continuous Improvement Collect and analyze workforce program data, employer engagement metrics, and participant outcomes. Develop and maintain performance metrics and dashboards to measure program impact. Relationship Management Maintain strong relationships with BioCT members, industry partners, education providers, workforce organizations, and community stakeholders. Serve as a resource for employers by connecting them with workforce programs, training opportunities, and talent initiatives. Core Competencies Experience managing workforce, education, career development, apprenticeship, internship, or talent pipeline programs. Ability to build partnerships, facilitate collaboration, and engage diverse stakeholders. Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills. Ability to analyze workforce trends, identify opportunities, and develop practical solutions. Strong organizational skills with attention to detail, reporting, and budget management. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree and five or more years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in workforce development, education, economic development, nonprofit programs, or related fields. Experience working with employers, academic institutions, workforce systems, or industry partnerships. Experience in the life sciences sector preferred. Experience managing grants, programs, partnerships, or multi-stakeholder initiatives preferred. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, CRM/database systems, and related technology platforms. Position Details Hybrid, New Haven-based position with an expectation of working in the office two to three days per week. Ability to travel throughout Connecticut for meetings, conferences, career fairs, and workforce-related events, including occasional evening events. Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required. Supervisory Responsibilities This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities. The above description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and is not an exhaustive list of duties. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed. The work environment characteristics described above are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. #J-18808-Ljbffr