Career Resources in Chicago

Did you know there are resources in Chicago that can help you with your career path? Chicago has many career service providers to support and help you achieve your career goals whatever they may be. Here are some free Chicago-based career resources to explore.

Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership

The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership has numerous resources on career topics, and it is the non-profit umbrella organization for the American Job Centers partnership network. American Job Center locations have career specialist staff that can assist with resumes and interviews, unemployment, job searching, training and education and even job readiness. There are numerous American Job Center locations across the city. You can find out more information on the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership website, or by filling out the Level Up AJC online form to be connected to a location.

City of Chicago Job Seekers

The City of Chicago website has various resources and links for career information and opportunities on the City of Chicago Job Seekers webpage. On this page you can explore job openings in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. There are also additional local resources for things like job fairs, training programs, internships and even employment opportunities for teens and young adults. Many of the resources on this page will link to websites for other programs or services making this a worthwhile springboard to check out.

Illinois workNet

Though not Chicago-based, Illinois workNet is the State of Illinois designated workforce development portal and serves as a one-stop-shop for all things job and career related. No matter what your career goals are, this is an essential resource to explore. In addition to job searching and a detailed resume building tool, Illinois workNet has information on state assistance and services, job fairs, training opportunities and more. To get started, visit the Quick Start Guide for Job Seekers and make an Illinois workNet account if you don’t already have one.

Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities Career Center

The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities Career Center offers a variety of services to individuals with disabilities including job seeking services, Career Counselors, benefits counseling and other program related assistance. MOPD works with community-based organizations and sister agencies throughout Chicago. Assistance is provided through personalized appointments. For more information and contact information, visit the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities Career Center website.

In addition to the resources above, there are many neighborhood organizations and services that can also assist with your career needs. Library staff can help connect you to additional local resources. Your neighborhood Alderperson’s office may also be great resource for more local connections to help you achieve your career goals.

Chicago Public Library Resources

The library has resources to get you closer to your career goals. Make sure to visit our Jobs & Small Businesses page regularly for more blog posts, tips and online resources. Not sure where to start with our resources? Library staff are here to help and can even help you build your digital skills.

What library resources have you used for your career path?  Let us know in the comments below.