An assessment was made of the staff structures of Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) programs, recommended staff backgrounds, current staff backgrounds, and staff development measures. Recommendations were made on how staff development could be improved. Data for the study were gathered through a survey of all state JTPA directors and a random sample of one-fourth of the nation's Service Delivery Areas (SDAs), a staff survey of all JTPA staff in eight state JTPA units and a random 20 percent sample of the original 25 percent SDA sample, as well as case studies in eight states and eight SDAs, a literature search, and interviews with experts. Some of the findings were as follows: (1) the mean number of state JTPA staff positions was 44, whereas SDA staff sizes varied considerably depending on funding levels; (2) most functions were performed in house or shared with outside staff or vendors, especially at the state level; (3) 70 percent of SDA staff members in the survey earned less than $25,000 annually, although benefits were generous; (4) most SDA directors thought they had adequate numbers of personnel, although state directors thought their staffs were too small; (5) staff turnover was high; (6) directors required personnel who were good communicators, good analysts, good with people, capable of working independently, and familiar with JTPA; (7) most JTPA staff had at least a bachelor's degree, (8) most JTPA staff members were white, at least 36 years old, and female; and (9) staff received a good deal of training. Recommendations were made to increase staff training, to increase management direction over training, and to remain open to staff generalists. (Appendixes include copies of four survey questionnaires and 81 tables.) (KC)