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State Job Banks: How to Use Your State's Free Job Search Site
Every US state runs a free online job bank linked to local workforce offices. Learn how to find yours, set up a profile, use matching and alerts, and get in-person help.
Every state in the US runs its own free online job bank, usually through its workforce or labor agency. These sites are easy to overlook next to the big commercial job boards, but they can be a strong source of local openings, and they connect directly to in-person help at local workforce offices.
What a state job bank is
A state job bank is an official job search website run by a state government. Employers can post openings there free of charge, which means you may find local businesses that do not advertise widely elsewhere. Most state sites also offer tools such as resume builders, job matching, saved searches and alerts, and links to training programs.
Two examples:
- WorkInTexas.com is run by the Texas Workforce Commission. It is a free system that matches job seekers' experience, skills and education with openings, and it includes resume tools and a "Virtual Recruiter" that looks for matches around the clock. Local Workforce Solutions offices offer computer labs, classes and hiring events.
- CalJOBS is California's online job search system, run by the Employment Development Department (EDD). You can customize job searches, create different resumes for different jobs, set alerts for openings and apply, and it is linked to America's Job Center of California offices.
How to find your state's site
The simplest route is CareerOneStop, the US Department of Labor's career site, which keeps a list of links to the job bank for every state, plus several US territories. Choose your state and you are taken to the official site. Always check that the address you land on is an official state site, often ending in .gov, before creating an account.
Who it suits
State job banks suit people looking for local, practical jobs such as driving, warehouse, cleaning, security, care and retail work, as well as anyone who wants free in-person help alongside an online search. In some states, people receiving unemployment benefits are required to register. California's EDD, for example, says many claimants must register in CalJOBS and post a resume within a set time, so check your state's rules.
How to search well
- Complete your profile and resume. Matching tools work better when your skills, licenses and work history are filled in.
- Search by title and county or ZIP code. Local results are where state sites are strongest.
- Set up alerts or saved searches so new openings arrive by email.
- Look for hiring events run by local workforce offices.
- Read every posting carefully. Pay and schedules vary by employer and region.
How to apply
Some postings let you apply directly through the state site, while others send you to the employer's website. Keep a simple record of where you applied. If you get stuck, local workforce offices can help with applications, resumes and interview practice at no cost.
Stay safe
State job banks are free, and so are the services of public workforce offices. The Federal Trade Commission says honest employers never ask you to pay to get a job. Never pay a fee to apply, and be cautious of anyone who contacts you claiming to be from a state agency and asks for money or bank details. See the FTC's job scam guidance and report scams at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find my state's job bank?
CareerOneStop, the US Department of Labor's career site, keeps a page of links to state job banks. Choose your state from that list to reach the official site.
Do I have to use my state job bank if I get unemployment benefits?
Rules vary by state. California, for example, generally requires many people receiving unemployment benefits to register in CalJOBS. Check your own state's requirements.
Are jobs on state job banks different from those on big job sites?
There is overlap, but employers can post on state job banks for free, so you may find local employers who do not advertise widely elsewhere.
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Sources
Disclaimer: This guide is general information only and may not fit your situation or country. Rules, prices and requirements change, so check the details with the official source or a qualified professional before you act. Read our full disclaimer.