Workforce Development Specialist - Bay Area Academy

California State University, Fresno Foundation is a well-established non-profit organization responsible for providing employment and fiscal oversight to various programs affiliated with California State University, Fresno. Dedicated to supporting educational and community initiatives, the Foundation plays a crucial role in facilitating workforce development and enhancing social services across multiple regions. The Foundation is respected for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and fostering professional growth within its diverse programs. One key program under its guidance is the Bay Area Academy (BAA), a specialized initiative of the College of Health and Human Services, Department of Social Work Education at California State University, Fresno. The Bay Area Academy focuses on equipping child welfare staff and other state and federally eligible agencies in 12 Bay Area counties with advanced training, coaching, and organizational support necessary to deliver high-quality services to vulnerable populations.

The position of Workforce Development Specialist (WDS) at the Bay Area Academy is a full-time, benefited role offering a competitive salary ranging from $7,250 to $7,514 per month, which equates to $87,000 to $90,168 annually. This salary level reflects the role’s requirement for significant expertise and leadership within child welfare workforce development. The WDS position is responsible for a broad scope of activities directed at developing and implementing Annual Service Delivery Plans for assigned projects. These projects may span individual counties, regional areas, or statewide initiatives, demanding a versatile and strategic approach to workforce enhancement.

In this role, the Workforce Development Specialist will engage in multiple core functions, including but not limited to curriculum development and review, training delivery, coaching, mentoring, transfer of learning, conducting needs assessments, implementation support, and evaluation of workforce development activities. The WDS collaborates closely with a diverse array of stakeholders, including Statewide, Regional, CalAcademy, and County partners. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and supports the sharing of best practices to improve child welfare outcomes.

The WDS is also entrusted with managing project budgets and ensuring timely delivery of all activities outlined in the Annual Service Delivery Plans. This financial oversight responsibility requires strong project management skills and the ability to negotiate and coordinate with independent contractors and subcontractors effectively. Additionally, the Specialist supports the integration of legal requirements, best practices, and various initiatives within counties to build workforce capacity and enhance organizational culture and climate.

As a vital member of the Bay Area Academy’s Program Development Team, the Workforce Development Specialist helps set program priorities and aligns activities with the overarching goals of the Academy. This team is accountable to the Academy’s Executive Leadership Team, which holds ultimate decision-making authority. The role demands excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and proficiency in Microsoft Office and cloud-based environments.

A key element of the position involves travel throughout the Bay Area and the state, necessitating a valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and valid insurance. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement based in Berkeley, CA, combining remote work flexibility with the opportunity for in-person collaboration and engagement with county representatives and team members.

This career opportunity is ideal for candidates with a bachelor’s degree in social work, counseling, or a related field coupled with at least four years of progressively responsible professional experience in child welfare, demonstrating leadership and training capabilities. A master’s degree and additional experience in public social service agencies are preferred but not required. The Foundation provides an excellent benefits package including health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with matching, paid time off, and an employee assistance program. It is an equal opportunity employer committed to affirmative action and ADA compliance, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.