Workforce Services for Immigrant and Refugee Job Seekers

​Jobs in Illinois

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 are 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!

​Local Services in the Chicago Area

Job seekers can contact a Career Pat​hway Navigator for assistance in Chicago or visit their nearest Illinois workNet American Job Center. Service providers across Illinois are ready to support job seekers by connecting them to the state’s workforce opportunities. Find a location near you using the Service Finder.

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

​Employers: Active engagement with American Job Centers is an effective way for employers to address their labor needs. 

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 Transit​ 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

Upcoming Events

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