Finding and getting a job can be a challenging process. Knowing more about job search methods and application techniques can help. To begin looking for jobs in your area, search by job title at CareerOneStop. Or, post your resume and register your job search with your state job bank.
Resources to Help You Find and Get a Job
CareerOneStop from the U.S. Department of Labor offers information that can help you:
Other resources:
Jobs for Teens and Young Adults
There’s a special section on support for young people who:
Struggle with addiction
Have a criminal record
Have children
Need help with housing
Face other challenges
- Learn about Job Corps, a free educational and vocational training program. It helps low income people ages 16 through 24 learn a trade, earn a high school diploma or GED, and get help finding a job.
Jobs for Older Workers
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) offers job training for older Americans. The program provides training for low-income, unemployed seniors.
If you're an older worker looking for a job, CareerOneStop offers tips that may help.
Jobs for Laid-off Workers
If you have recently lost your job, visit CareerOneStop's Worker ReEmployment section. It has information on job searching, benefits, and training options after a layoff.
Job Information and Resources for Women
Find information about and for women in the workforce at the Department of Labor Women’s Bureau. The Resources page has information about :
- Equal pay
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Hiring women in construction
Avoid Job Scams
While some companies want to help you find a job, others are more interested in taking your money. Learn how to recognize scams and file a complaint:
Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training and related instruction to give you skills to advance in your chosen field.
Apprentice programs vary in length from one to six years. During that time, as an apprentice, you'll work and learn as an employee. When you complete a registered program, you will receive a nationally recognized certificate from the Department of Labor (DOL) as proof of your qualifications.
For more information:
Self-Employment and Working from Home
You are self-employed if you operate a trade, business, or profession either by yourself or with a partner.
Find out the basics of self-employment to help you succeed in the small business world:
Work from Home
Are you thinking about basing your business out of your home? The Small Business Administration's 10 Steps to Start Your Business includes the licenses and permits you need to run a home-based business.
Home Office Deduction
If you use a portion of your home for business, you may be able to take a home office tax deduction.
Work-at-Home Scams
Learn what to watch out for to avoid work-at-home scams. In one common scam, you may be tricked into paying to start your own internet business. These scammers will keep asking you to send money for more services related to this fake business opportunity. To file a complaint about a scam, contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Federal Government Telework Guidelines
If you’re a federal employee looking for information on teleworking, visit www.telework.gov.
Note: The federal government never charges a fee for information about, or applications for, government jobs. You can search and apply for federal government jobs for free at USAJOBS.
Jobs and Training for Veterans
The government offers many programs to help vets find and keep civilian jobs.
Job and Training Resources for Military and Veterans
These programs and websites can help you explore careers, find training, and find jobs.
Find Federal Jobs for Veterans
These government websites can help vets find federal jobs.
If you plan to go to college or a vocational school, learn about your educational benefits.
Job Help for People with Disabilities
If you have a disability and you're looking for work, these resources can help.
Develop Your Work and Job-Seeking Skills
Find a Job
Job Help for Young Workers
Job Help for Veterans
Learn About Your Rights
Getting a Job in the U.S. as a Foreign Worker
Based on your skills, circumstances, and the job that you plan to do, you may be able to come to the U.S. as either a:
Under certain circumstances, you may also be able to work in the U.S. if you’re a foreign student or an exchange visitor.
Get a Work Visa
As a foreign worker, you will need a visa to get a job in the U.S. Each type of visa has unique requirements, conditions, and time limits.
Visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' (USCIS) Working in the U.S. web page for an overview of each worker category and type of visa.
Use the Department of State’s visa wizard to find:
Your Rights and Protections as a Temporary Foreign Worker
If you violate the terms of your work visa, it could be revoked. You could be deported, arrested, or denied re-entry into the U.S.
Immigration Questions
If you’re in the U.S. and have questions about visas and immigration, visit the USCIS Contact Center. If you’re in another country, contact your nearest international immigration office.
Do you have a question?
Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They'll get you the answer or let you know where to find it.
Last Updated:
July 23, 2020
