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Located in Chatham, Illinois

Career Resources

Skill Building

If you are thinking of changing careers, find yourself without a job and looking for a new career, or are re-entering the workforce, here are some online resources to help you take this time to sharpen or add new skills.

  • Association of Talent Development: Free videos on communication, leadership, and more.
  • Grow with Google: Free training, tools, and resources to help you grow your skills, career, or business.
  • Learn Free: Free online training for Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point) and more.
  • Professional Development Certifications (Management and Strategy Institute): Free mini-training on Sigma-six, project management, supervisor training, and ethics.
  • Digital Defynd: help you find the best courses, certifications, and tutorials online. Hundreds of experts come together to handpick these recommendations based on decades of collective experience. 

Job Searching

Many job sites can email you new postings for free. However, medium and large companies often list openings only on their own websites. To avoid missing opportunities, do both:

  1. Sign up for job alerts from major job search sites
  2. Check individual company websites

Job search websites 

Helpful Articles

Master Job Application

Use a blank master job application to record your work history, references, skills, and other details. Save a copy so you can quickly refer to it when filling out online or paper applications.

 

State and Federal Jobs

State & Federal Job Search Guide

Working in government can offer stability, good benefits, and opportunities for advancement. The process is different from applying to private‑sector jobs, so here’s what job seekers need to know.

⭐ State of Illinois Jobs

Illinois state agencies hire through a centralized system. Most positions are posted online, and many require specific forms or testing.

Where to Search

Applicant eGuide

Tips for State Job Seekers

  • Create a master job application with your work history and references
  • Read job descriptions carefully—many have specific requirements
  • Keep copies of all submitted forms
  • Check the site regularly; postings change often

⭐ Federal Government Jobs

Federal jobs are posted through one official website used nationwide.

Where to Search

  • USAJOBS.gov Create an account, upload your resume, and apply directly through the site.

What Makes Federal Applications Different

  • Federal resumes are longer and more detailed
  • Many jobs require questionnaires or supplemental documents
  • You can set up job alerts for agencies or job categories
  • Applications often take longer to review—patience helps

Tips for Federal Job Seekers:

  • Use the resume builder on USAJOBS for best results
  • Tailor your resume to each job’s “Required Qualifications”
  • Save all submitted documents in a folder for future applications
  • Track closing dates—many federal postings close quickly

⭐ General Advice for Government Job Searching

  • Set up job alerts so new postings come directly to your email
  • Check agency websites—some departments post jobs only on their own pages
  • Keep a master job application with your work history, dates, references, and skills
  • Review job requirements carefully; government roles often have strict qualifications
  • Be prepared for background checks, testing, or multi‑step interviews

Applying

Applying for a job is different than what it was just 5 years ago. Learn how to write an effective resume and cover letter along with how to ask for a reference.  Learn also how to navigate an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)

Book a Librarian

A library staff member will give undivided attention to customers who want assistance with the review of a resume or cover letter. 

Interviewing

Tips on how to interview well.

Unemployment & Crisis Help

If you are unemployed or lost your job, here are some resources for assistance while you are looking for a new job.