Edmonton

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Employment Services

Support for job seekers, including employment agencies, career counseling, and skill development resources for newcomers.

Sections

1. Job Search Assistance

Edmonton has several organizations and programs designed to help individuals search for jobs effectively. These services include job boards, career counseling, and workshops.

Key Providers:

  • Alberta Supports Centres: Operated by the Government of Alberta, these centers provide free job search resources, including access to computers, printers, and job boards. Staff can assist with job applications and provide referrals to other services.

    • Website: Alberta Supports
    • Cost: Free
    • Locations: Multiple locations across Edmonton, including downtown and Mill Woods.

  • Bissell Centre Employment Services: A non-profit organization offering job search support, including job fairs, one-on-one coaching, and connections to employers.

    • Website: Bissell Centre
    • Cost: Free
    • Location: 10527 96 St NW, Edmonton, AB

  • Edmonton Public Library (EPL): EPL branches provide free access to job search tools, including resume templates, job boards, and workshops on job hunting.

    • Website: EPL
    • Cost: Free with a library card (library cards are free for Edmonton residents).

How to Access:

  • Walk into any Alberta Supports Centre or non-profit organization during business hours.
  • Register for workshops or job fairs online or in person.
  • Bring identification and, if applicable, your resume for review.

2. Resume and Cover Letter Assistance

Crafting a professional resume and cover letter is crucial for job applications. Edmonton offers several free and low-cost services to help with this.

Key Providers:

  • Career Assistance Network (CAN): Offers resume and cover letter writing workshops, as well as one-on-one consultations.

    • Website: Career Assistance Network
    • Cost: Free or low-cost, depending on the program.
    • Location: Various locations; check the website for details.

  • YMCA of Northern Alberta Employment Services: Provides resume and cover letter assistance as part of their employment programs.

How to Access:

  • Book an appointment online or by phone.
  • Attend workshops or drop-in sessions (check schedules on the provider’s website).

3. Skills Training and Certification Programs

For individuals looking to upgrade their skills or gain certifications, Edmonton offers a variety of training programs tailored to different industries.

Key Providers:

  • NorQuest College: Offers short-term training programs in areas like healthcare, business, and technology. They also provide bridging programs for newcomers to meet Canadian employment standards.

    • Website: NorQuest College
    • Cost: Varies; financial aid may be available.
    • Location: 10215 108 St NW, Edmonton, AB

  • Women Building Futures (WBF): Focuses on training women for careers in construction, trades, and other non-traditional fields.

    • Website: Women Building Futures
    • Cost: Varies; scholarships and funding options are available.
    • Location: 10326 107 St NW, Edmonton, AB

  • Bredin Centre for Career Advancement: Offers skills training programs, including computer literacy, customer service, and industry-specific certifications.

    • Website: Bredin Centre
    • Cost: Free or low-cost, depending on the program.
    • Location: 9th Floor, 10025 106 St NW, Edmonton, AB

How to Access:

  • Visit the provider’s website to explore available programs.
  • Apply online or in person; some programs may require an assessment or interview.
  • Check eligibility criteria, especially for funding or scholarships.

4. Employment Services for Newcomers

Edmonton has specialized services to help immigrants and refugees integrate into the workforce.

Key Providers:

  • Catholic Social Services (CSS) - Employment Services for Newcomers: Offers job search support, resume writing, and interview preparation tailored to newcomers.

    • Website: CSS
    • Cost: Free
    • Location: 8212 118 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB

  • Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers (EMCN): Provides employment readiness programs, mentorship, and connections to employers for immigrants and refugees.

    • Website: EMCN
    • Cost: Free
    • Location: 11713 82 St NW, Edmonton, AB

  • Action for Healthy Communities (AHC): Offers employment workshops, networking opportunities, and support for credential recognition.

    • Website: AHC
    • Cost: Free
    • Location: 10010 105 St NW, Edmonton, AB

How to Access:

  • Contact the organization directly to book an appointment or register for programs.
  • Bring identification and immigration documents, as some services are exclusive to newcomers.

5. Youth Employment Services

Edmonton has programs specifically designed to help young people (ages 15-30) enter the workforce.

Key Providers:

  • Youth Employment Services (YES): A program by Bissell Centre that helps youth with job search, resume writing, and interview preparation.

  • The Boys and Girls Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters (BGCBigs) - Youth Employment Program: Offers career exploration, job readiness training, and mentorship for youth.

    • Website: BGCBigs
    • Cost: Free
    • Location: 9425 109A Ave NW, Edmonton, AB

How to Access:

  • Register online or contact the organization directly.
  • Attend workshops or one-on-one sessions.

6. Indigenous Employment Services

Edmonton has tailored services to support Indigenous individuals in finding employment.

Key Providers:

  • Rupertsland Institute - MΓ©tis Centre of Excellence: Offers employment and training programs for MΓ©tis individuals, including funding for education and skills development.

  • Oteenow Employment and Training Society: Provides employment services for First Nations and Inuit individuals, including job placement and skills training.

    • Website: Oteenow
    • Cost: Free
    • Location: 11724 Kingsway NW, Edmonton, AB

How to Access:

  • Contact the organization to determine eligibility and register for programs.
  • Bring proof of Indigenous status, if applicable.

7. Local Considerations

  • Language Support: Many organizations offer services in multiple languages or provide interpreters for newcomers.
  • Transportation: Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) provides affordable public transportation to most employment service locations. Consider purchasing a monthly transit pass if you plan to visit multiple centers.
  • Weather Preparedness: Edmonton experiences cold winters, so dress appropriately when traveling to appointments during winter months.

Conclusion

Edmonton offers a robust network of employment services catering to diverse needs, including job search assistance, resume help, skills training, and specialized programs for newcomers, youth, and Indigenous individuals. Most services are free or low-cost, and accessing them typically involves registering online or visiting the service provider in person. Take advantage of these resources to enhance your job prospects and integrate into Edmonton’s workforce effectively.