Employment & Job Readiness Help

Finding work after a setback can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone! This page includes tips and tools to help you prepare for your next step, including résumé support, interview practice, job search help, training opportunities, and reentry-friendly guidance. When you’re ready, scroll down to find our list of local organizations and programs you can contact for job readiness support and employment connections.

See Employment & Job Readiness Orgs here

DES and ARIZONA@WORK workforce specialists provide no-cost job readiness services to help job seekers overcome barriers to employment.

*You can submit a form here for no-cost reentry services from DES,and a member from their Reentry team will contact you with next steps.

Reentry workforce services include but are not limited to:

Development of hard and soft workforce skills
Résumé development
Interview preparation with mock interviews
Access to virtual and in-person job fairs
Ability to build relationships with potential employers
Training to utilize online job search websites
Specialized workforce services for Veterans and individuals with disabilities
Information about Federal Bonding insurance for employers who hire “at risk” (including formerly incarcerated) job seekers and,
Information on Work Opportunity Tax Credits for employers who hire former inmates
Access to employment labs
Registration on the Arizona Job Connection website
Employment referrals
Individualized job coaching
Follow-up employment services
Transportation assistance (contingent upon availability)

"Check out these #tips on how to talk about your background when re-entering the workforce—featuring DES Reentry Specialist Danny Howe"

"Interviews can be tough, especially after incarceration. Danny Howe, a DES Reentry Specialist with lived experience, breaks down common interview mistakes and how to avoid them. From doing company research to showing confidence and asking the right questions, these tips will help you make a great first impression and land the job."

Pima County One Stop/AZ@Work- Job Seekers Services

When looking for a job, it helps to have connections. Whether you’re looking for your first job, making a career switch, or re-entering the workforce, ARIZONA@WORK is the place to start. In addition to our no-cost workforce readiness services, we can connect you to our partners for expert advice and guidance on everything from child care, basic needs, vocational rehabilitation for job seekers with disabilities, and educational opportunities.

ARIZONA@WORK Resource Centers Locations

ARIZONA@WORK has three resource center types located throughout Arizona to help job seekers and employers with their employment needs.

And for inspiration - Check out our Peer Stories tab to see reentry success stories & community support of local Second Chances

Below is are organizations who are currently providing training and workshops related to employment, job readiness, and skill development. Be sure to contact the organization via telephone to inquire about current offerings and schedule.

Jump to Employment & Job Readiness Orgs here

Pima County Public Library

The Pima County library has free assistance with writing a resume or cover letter, creating an email account, searching online for jobs, completing online job applications, preparing for an interview.

Registration is not required. For the schedule visit www.library.pima.gov, select the “Events” tab and search for “Job Help” under Event Type or scan the QR code with your phone

Goodwill of Southern Arizona Career Centers

Workshop Wednesdays are hosted weekly from 9am-11am at the locations listed below. It is required to call and RSVP prior to attendance. If you are unable to attend Wednesdays, you can call the location nearest you and schedule another time.

Available workshops include:

Digital Skills: Creating a resume, Excel Basics, Google Sheets Basics
Workplace Skills: Soft skills & how to improve working relationships.
Money Skills: Learn about loans, comparison shopping, etc.
Career Skills: Where you are, where you want to be & how to get there.
Assisting with Backgrounds: Learn how to speak about your background
Applying for Jobs & Interviewing: Techniques for job searching, how to answer interview questions, and more!

Dodge Career Center

3725 E. Ft Lowell Road

520-628-1882

Flowing Wells Career Center

3925 N. Flowing Wells Road

520-545-9266

Midvale Career Center

1680 W. Valencia Road

520-547-5647

Kolb Career Center

7201 E. 22nd Street

520-545-9266

Goodwill of Southern Arizona Youth Engagement Centers

The Goodwill Youth Centers serves youth and young adults ages 12-24 years seeking employment and education in the community. We assist them with their goals, connect them to resources, provide career pathways, and give a sense of purpose for the future. One on One assistance is available as requested.

Goodwill Impact Youth Center

Tuesday - Friday: 9AM-4PM

2990 W Ina Rd.,

Tucson, AZ 85741

Javier Diaz 520 310-8054

Corina Lopez- 520-490-9166

Goodwill Metro Youth Center

Mon: 10:30am-4pm |

Tues-Thur: 9AM-4PM

300 N 4th Ave.,

Tucson, AZ 85705

Kiana Green 520 308-8654