Workforce Development Representative

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development; Mankato (MN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 79,000; Full time

Job summary

The Workforce Development Representative position is based in Mankato and provides direct career services to Minnesotans through CareerForce programs. You will guide job seekers in understanding employment options, strengthen job search skills, and connect them with available resources and training opportunities.

Responsibilities include assisting Unemployment Insurance applicants, Veterans, and other priority populations, delivering workshops, and coordinating with employers and partners to

Qualifications

• One year of experience providing career services or employment support.
• Experience facilitating trainings, workshops, orientations, or group instruction.
• Experience conducting assessments, interviews, or screenings to identify needs and next steps.
• Experience providing consultation or coaching to help individuals make informed decisions.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience using computer systems, online tools, or databases to research information or document interactions.
• Clear and professional communication with diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct career services to Minnesotans across CareerForce programs.
• Assist unemployment applicants, veterans, and priority populations with individualized and group services.
• Lead workshops and connect customers to training and employment opportunities.
• Collaborate with partners, employers, and internal teams to ensure timely, accurate service delivery.

Skills

Career guidance

Workshop facilitation

Client counseling

Communication

Data/documentation

Tools

Microsoft Office

CareerForce tools

Job description

• Telework Eligible: No

Job Class: Workforce Development Representative

Agency: Department of Employment and Economic Development

• Job ID: 96276
• Location: Mankato
• Telework Eligible: No
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: This vacancy is open for bids and for all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 08/26/2026.
• Date Posted: 08/20/2026
• Closing Date: 09/01/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Employment and Economic Development / MAPE
• Division/Unit: Workforce Development
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00AM - 4:30PM
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $26.12 - $37.91 / hourly; $54,538 - $79,156 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - Minnesota Association of Professional Employees
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well‑being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

This position is based out of the CareerForce in Mankato, Minnesota.

The Workforce Development Representative provides direct career services to Minnesotans by delivering high-quality guidance, support, and instruction across CareerForce programs. This role helps job seekers understand employment options, strengthen job search skills, access available resources, and navigate workforce systems so they can make informed career decisions. The representative plays a key role in assisting Unemployment Insurance applicants, Veterans, and other priority populations by offering individualized and group services, facilitating workshops, and connecting customers to training and employment opportunities.

Operating with increasing independence, the Workforce Development Representative collaborates with partners, employers, and internal teams to ensure timely, accurate, and customer-centered service delivery. The position requires strong communication skills, the ability to interpret program requirements, and a commitment to delivering inclusive, culturally responsive services. This role directly supports CareerForce’s mission of helping Minnesotans find meaningful employment and employers find qualified candidates.

The incumbent is expected to work on-site five (5) days per week and is not eligible for telework.

This posting may be used to fill multiple positions.

Minimum Qualifications

One (1) year of experience providing career services, employment support, program delivery, customer service, case management or related work that involves assisting individuals in navigating complex information, systems, or resources.

• Experience facilitating training, workshops, orientations, or group instruction.
• Experience conducting assessments, interviews, or screenings to identify customer needs and determine next steps.
• Experience providing consultation, guidance, or coaching to help individuals make informed decisions.
• Skilled in managing multiple priorities and maintaining accuracy in a fast‑paced or high‑volume environment.
• Experience using computer systems, online tools, or databases to research information, support customers, or document interactions.
• Skill in communicating clearly and professionally with diverse populations across verbal and written channels.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience delivering services within workforce development, adult education, counseling, human services, career coaching, or related field as determined by the agency.
• Knowledge of CareerForce program or similar workforce or public assistance programs.
• Experience working with job seekers from diverse backgrounds, including individuals facing employment barriers.
• Experience using Careerforce.mn.gov, labor market information tools, or job search platforms.
• Experience collaborating with employers, workforce partners, community organizations, or educational institutions.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office, online platforms, and virtual tools (Teams, Webex, etc.) to support service delivery.
• Our employees are dedicated to ensuring cultural responsiveness. Preferred candidates will have a variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.

Additional Requirements

A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components:

• Criminal Background Check
• Employment Records Check (current and former State employees only)
• Employment Reference Check
• Conflict of Interest Review
• Driver’s License and Records Check

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Allex Roberge at [e-mail]

Working together to improve the state we love.

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well‑being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well‑being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies

based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants With Disabilities

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email [e-mail] and let us know the support you need.

The Department of Employment and Economic Development is an equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employer, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply for job opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application and search tools, please contact Karen Lilledahl at [e-mail]. Please indicate what assistance is needed.