Workforce Development Coordinator Role at GWV in Columbus
Career & Market Insight
This is a solid entry-to-mid-level opportunity within the nonprofit workforce development sector, well-suited for someone transitioning from higher education, HR, or community outreach into a program coordination role with meaningful regional impact.
Compensation: The $55,000–$60,000 salary range is competitive for West Virginia but sits below national median pay for comparable workforce development or talent acquisition roles (typically $60,000–$75,000 in larger markets). The lower cost of living in WV partially offsets this gap.
Skills you'll develop:
- Employer relations and B2B partnership building — transferable to corporate recruiting, economic development, or higher ed administration.
- CRM/database management and program tracking — in-demand across the nonprofit and HR sectors.
- Event coordination and community outreach — valuable for roles in public affairs or talent branding.
Green flags:
- Mission-driven organization with clear social impact — strong for resume narrative.
- Hybrid flexibility and professional development support signal a people-first culture.
- Exposure to both employer and candidate sides of the talent pipeline builds well-rounded HR/workforce expertise.
Watch out for: Nonprofit salary ceilings can limit long-term earnings growth. If career advancement is a priority, clarify internal promotion pathways and whether GWV has plans to expand its programming — which could create leadership opportunities.
About the Position
Generation West Virginia (GWV) is seeking a dynamic Placement Coordinator to lead the development and expansion of internship opportunities across northern West Virginia. This role will build partnerships with employers to create meaningful career pathways for students and recent graduates, connecting emerging talent with high-quality internship and entry-level opportunities that strengthen West Virginia's workforce pipeline.
Key Responsibilities
Employer Engagement & Partnership Development
- Identify, cultivate, and maintain relationships with businesses, nonprofits, and public agencies interested in hosting interns or hiring recent graduates.
- Collaborate with employers to design internship and entry-level job opportunities that align with workforce needs and student career goals.
- Provide ongoing support to employer partners, offering resources and best practices for effective internship management and supervision.
Candidate Recruitment & Placement
- Recruit students and recent graduates from West Virginia's four-year colleges and universities to participate in internship and job placement opportunities.
- Work with higher education partners to match candidates to opportunities based on skills, interests, and regional workforce needs.
Program Coordination & Tracking
- Maintain accurate records of employer and participant engagement using CRM or database systems.
- Track and report internship placements, outcomes, and participant success stories.
- Collaborate with GWV's communications and program teams to share opportunities, highlight employer partners, and promote success metrics.
- Support the design and execution of regional networking events, employer roundtables, and career workshops.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in business, communications, human resources, education, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- 2+ years of experience in workforce development, higher education, talent recruitment, or employer relations preferred.
- Strong relationship-building and communication skills; able to work effectively with diverse employers, students, and community partners.
- Excellent organizational and project management abilities, with attention to detail and follow-through.
- Knowledge of West Virginia's economic and workforce landscape is a plus.
- Willingness to travel regionally for employer engagement and outreach events.
Location & Work Arrangement
- Based in Northern West Virginia.
- Hybrid/remote flexibility with in-person travel required within the assigned region.
Benefits
- Annual salary: $55,000–$60,000, depending on experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions.
- Professional development opportunities within a mission-driven organization.
About Generation West Virginia
Generation West Virginia is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to attracting, retaining, and advancing young people in the Mountain State. Through leadership development, workforce initiatives, and employer partnerships, GWV connects emerging talent with the opportunities needed to thrive in West Virginia.
Frequently Asked Questions
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