Career Development Specialist
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Provide one-to-one career coaching and goal setting
- Conduct career assessments and interpret results
- Create individual career plans with milestones
- Deliver workshops on resumes, interviewing, and job search strategy
- Support clients with networking and employer outreach
- Coordinate internships, apprenticeships, or work-based learning opportunities
- Build relationships with employers and community partners
- Track participant progress and program outcomes
- Maintain client records and case notes
- Refer clients to training, supportive services, or credential programs
- Support hiring events and career fairs
- Ensure services align with program guidelines and accessibility needs
Top Skills for Success
Career Coaching
Active Listening
Interview Coaching
Resume Writing
Workshop Facilitation
Relationship Building
Employer Outreach
Program Coordination
Case Management
Data Tracking
Written Communication
Cultural Competence
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Senior Career Development Specialist
Career Services Manager
Workforce Program Manager
Employer Relations Manager
Student Success Manager
Training and Development Specialist
Transition Opportunities
Academic Advisor
Recruiter
Human Resources Generalist
Talent Development Specialist
Program Evaluator
Community Partnership Manager
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Employer Engagement StrategyOutcome ReportingLabor Market ResearchCustomer Relationship Management ToolsWorkshop Curriculum DesignTrauma Informed Support
Development SuggestionsStrengthen employer-facing skills through informational interviews with hiring managers, practice writing clear outcome reports, and learn basic labor market research. Build confidence with common tracking tools and design one repeatable workshop that can be delivered and improved over time.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 45,000 to 55,000
Mid LevelUSD 55,000 to 70,000
Senior LevelUSD 70,000 to 90,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand. Hiring is supported by ongoing workforce development funding, increased focus on career readiness in education, and employer needs for talent pipelines.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
Community collegesUniversitiesWorkforce development boardsState and local government agenciesNonprofit employment programsStaffing and career transition firmsHealthcare systemsLarge employers with internal training programs
Industry Sectors
EducationGovernmentNonprofitHealthcareTechnologyManufacturingFinancial servicesProfessional services
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a portfolio with a sample resume review, a mock interview guide, and one workshop outline2
Learn one client tracking system commonly used in your target sector3
Run two practice coaching sessions and request structured feedback4
Build an employer contact list and schedule recurring outreach time each week5
Track outcomes you influence, such as placements, retention, or credential completion6
Pursue a coaching or facilitation credential that fits your target employer