Workforce Services for Immigrant and Refugee Jobseekers

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Finding employment in the United States can be an overwhelming challenge for new arrivals, immigrants, and refugee job seekers preparing to work in new communities. Illinois workNet American Job Centers and online resources provide services to help individuals find employment. 


Don't be afraid to reach out for support and advice. You're not alone on this journey; resources are available to help you succeed. Let's make your Illinois job search a success!

Illinois worknet american job centers

U.S. citizens and noncitizens with or applying for work authorization and seeking employment in Illinois can utilize free online and in-person resources to help find a job!

​Attention Venezuelan Nationals: In September 2023, the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security announced the extension and redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan nationals in the U.S. as of July 31, 2023. TPS has many advantages, including work permits and advanced parole for those who need to travel. Click here for FAQ.

​Local Services in the Chicago Area

Job seekers can contact with a Career Pathway Navigator for assistance in Chicago or visit one of the Centers listed below.  Additional service providers stand ready to help empower new arrivals by connecting them to Illinois' workforce opportunities. Search here for additional locations.

Watch a brief video to learn how the American Job Center Chicago and Cook County Network can help you:


​West Suburban American Job Center in Maywood
​Southwest American Job Center at Daley College 
​Northside American Job Center at Truman College
​1701 South 1st Avenue
Suite 10
Maywood, IL 60153 

Phone: 708-223-2652
TTY/TDD: 800-526-0844

Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM

​Richard J. Daley College Campus
7500 South Pulaski Road Campus, Building 100
Chicago, IL 60652

Phone: 773-884-7000
TTY/TDD: 773-884-0269

Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM

​1145 W Wilson Ave. 
Suite 1917
Chicago, IL 60640 

Phone: 773-334-4747
TTY/TDD: 773-334-9804

Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Near West American Job Center in Pilsen
​Southwest Suburban Cook County American Job Center in North Riverside
​Central States SER, Little Village (Delegate Workforce Center)
​1700 W. 18th Street
Chicago, IL 60608 

Phone: 855-994-8300
TTY/TDD: 312-738-0766

Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM-4:30 PM
7222 Cermak Rd
North Riverside, IL 60546

Phone: 708-222-3100 Ext 1300       
TTY/TDD: 800-526-0844

Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM
​3948 W. 26th Street, Suite 213
Chicago, IL 60623

Phone: 773-542-9030
TTY/TDD: 800-526-0844
 
Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM

Employers: Active engagement with American Job Centers is one of many ways employers can unlock the potential of a diverse and inclusive workforce, meet labor needs effectively, and benefit the communities in which they operate. 

Visit the Illinois workNet Service Finder to find the nearest center and contact a Business Service representative about hiring and training resources.

online resources

Jobseekers can also access the free online resources below to help meet their employment needs.

Additional resources

​Know Your Rights

Regardless of your immigration status, the U.S. Constitution provides you with basic rights, including due process and equal protection rights. As an immigrant, refugee or asylum seeker, you have different rights to federal protection and services consistent with your immigration status in the U.S.

The information on this site should not be understood as legal advice and does not include all the information you need. It's just a guide to help you get started. Visit the following resources to learn more:

City of Chicago Resources

  • Welcome to Chicago: Know Your Rights - https://immigrantjustice.org/es/know-your-rights
    No matter if you plan to stay in Chicago or move to another city, the National Immigrant Justice Center provides information to Know Your Rights.
  • CITY KEY - www.chicityclerk.com/about-citykey
    CityKey is a free government ID that you can obtain regardless of immigration status. You can use your CityKey as a government-issued ID, Chicago Public Library Card, Ventra card (public transportation via trains and buses), a Chicago Rx prescription discount card, and more.
  • CHICAGO TRANSIT AUTHORITY - www.transitchicago.com/
    The Chicago Transity Authority (CTA) is the public transportation system in Chicago. Visit transitchicago.com to learn how to use the CTA busses and trains.
  • HEALTHCARE - www.icirr.org/healthcare-resources-inter-map
    List of healthcare clinics in Illinois that provide services for free or low-cost, regardless of immigration or insurance status
  • FOOD BANKS - www.bancodealimentoschicago.org/comida
    Search for food pantries and other resources near you.

Click HERE for additional resources available for recent immigrants to Chicago

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