Director-Workforce Development

Salary range is $154k to $268k, with a midpoint of $211k. New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market.

Sound Transit also offers a competitive benefits package with a wide range of offerings, including:

• Health Benefits: We offer two choices of medical plans, a dental plan, and a vision plan all at no cost for employee coverage; comprehensive benefits for employees and eligible dependents, including a spouse or domestic partner.
• Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Retirement Plans: 401a - 10% of employee contribution with a 12% match by Sound Transit; 457b - up to IRS maximum (employee only contribution).
• Paid Time Off: Employees accrue 25 days of paid time off annually with increases at four, eight and twelve years of service. Employees at the director level and up accrue additional days. We also observe 12 paid holidays and provide up to 2 paid floating holidays and up to 2 paid volunteer days per year.
• Parental Leave: 12 weeks of parental leave for new parents.
• Pet Insurance.
• ORCA Card: All full-time employees will receive an ORCA card at no cost.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Sound Transit will pay up to $5,000 annually for approved tuition expenses.
• Inclusive Reproductive Health Support Services.
• Compensation Practices: We offer competitive salaries based on market rates and internal equity. In addition to compensation and benefits, you'll find that we provide work-life balance, opportunities for professional development and recognition from your colleagues

GENERAL PURPOSE:

The Director of Workforce Development is responsible for leading and overseeing the development and implementation of workforce programs aimed at improving the skills, capabilities, and employability of individuals working both within and around Sound Transit. This position requires strategic leadership, partnership building, and the ability to manage workforce development initiatives that align with industry needs and economic growth objectives. The Director will ensure that workforce development programs are effective, efficient, and accessible to all participants, and will drive efforts to close skill gaps, increase employment opportunities, and promote lifelong learning. This position will lead a team of Workforce Development staff and partner closely with the Labor & Workforce Development team to create a balanced and cooperative workforce development program that is in alignment with organizational objectives.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The following duties are a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

• Develops and executes a comprehensive workforce development strategy that supports Sound Transit's mission, vision, and goals.
• Ensures alignment of workforce programs with regional labor market needs and industry trends.
• Provides leadership in shaping policies that address current and future workforce challenges.
• Oversees the design, implementation, and evaluation of workforce development programs, including training initiatives, apprenticeship programs, and career pathways.
• Coaches, mentors, and motivates staff; coordinates and/or provides staff training; manages the workflow and prioritization of projects and measures the performance of assigned staff.
• Plans, directs, coordinates, and reviews the work of assigned staff; provides constructive feedback; reviews and evaluates work and makes effective suggestions and recommendations.
• Identifies and collaborates with programs that support diverse populations, including underrepresented groups, youth, veterans, and displaced workers.
• Collaborates with educational institutions, employers, and industry partners to design curriculum and training programs that meet specific skills and job demands.
• Builds and maintains relationships with key stakeholders, including local employers, government agencies, educational institutions, non-profits, and community organizations.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for workforce-related initiatives, ensuring that stakeholders' needs are met and fostering a collaborative environment.
• Develops and sustains partnerships to enhance program impact and sustainability.
• Monitors program outcomes and metrics to ensure effectiveness and make data-driven recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Manages program budgets and ensures the efficient allocation of resources across multiple initiatives.
• Ensures compliance with financial, legal, and regulatory guidelines associated with workforce development funding.
• Advocates for workforce development policies that support regional economic growth, education, and employment.
• Represents the organization in meetings with legislators, industry leaders, and community groups to promote workforce development initiatives.
• Leads and manages a team of workforce development professionals, including providing supervision, coaching, and professional development opportunities.
• Champions and models Sound Transit's core values and demonstrates values-based behaviors in everyday interactions across the agency.
• Contributes to a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion in alignment with Sound Transit's Equity & Inclusion Policy.
• It is the responsibility of all employees to follow the Agency safety rules, regulations, and procedures pertaining to their assigned duties and responsibilities, which could include systems, operations, and/or other employees.
• It is the responsibility of all employees to integrate sustainability into everyday business practices.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Education, Public Administration, or a related field. Eight years of experience in workforce development, education, human resources, or related role; Or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Six years of leadership, budgetary, planning and workforce management experience.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Experience managing large-scale workforce development or training programs.
• Knowledge of labor market trends, regional economic development, and workforce policy.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire staff to achieve program goals.
• Experience working with construction and transportation sector workforce development programs.
• Knowledge of workforce development best practices, including career counseling, job training, apprenticeship programs, and labor market information.
• Strong presentation skills, with the ability to communicate effectively to internal and external audiences, including elected officials and community leaders.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:

• Work is performed in a standard hybrid office environment.
• The Agency promotes a safe and healthy work environment and provides appropriate safety and equipment training for all personnel as required.

Sound Transit is an equal employment opportunity employer. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment action based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status or other protected class.