As of September 4, pandemic-related unemployment benefits will end, impacting 19,200 Middlesex County residents. To assist unemployed and underemployed County residents with their job search, Middlesex County’s One-Stop Career Centers within the Office of Career Opportunity are offering virtual career-related services.
In addition to accessing the One-Stop Career Centers for assistance with job searches, resume reviewing, career counseling, and career services for low-income residents, job seekers and underemployed residents are encouraged to sign up for SkillUp, a free online training portal with more than 5,500 courses focusing on business, project management, accounting, human resources, information technology, and customer service. To sign up for SkillUp, please visit http://www.middlesexcountynj.gov/Government/Departments/BDE/Pages/SkillUp.aspx
“With pandemic-related unemployment benefits ending on September 4, we encourage all unemployed residents to begin their job search and to utilize the resources available to them through the County. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the employment landscape for employees, but Middlesex County is here to help our residents find employment in any way we can,” said Director of the Board of County Commissioners Ronald G. Rios.Fortunately, for those who are looking for jobs, Middlesex County and the State of New Jersey are ready to assist by connecting job seekers to the thousands of open positions around the region and offering a variety of services through the One-Stop Career Centers. With greater competition for open positions, many industries are offering increased hourly wages and sign-on bonuses to attract and keep workers.
The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development also recently launched Job Source, offering a variety of tools designed to help fuel a successful job search experience. Users can create a free account and get tips and templates for job search, resume writing, cover letters and many other free services.
State-run One-Stop Career Centers are currently only operating remotely, with career-related services available virtually and by telephone. A return date for appointment-only services at the state-run centers has not been determined.
For more information, contact the Office of Career Opportunity at 732-745-3970 or if interested in job training contact Middlesex County One-Stop Career Centers at 732-745-3955 (New Brunswick) and 732-293-0642 (Perth Amboy) to schedule an appointment. More information can be found here: http://www.middlesexcountynj.gov/Government/Departments/BDE/Pages/Office_Workforce.aspx