The Staff at CareerForce in Chaska is here to support job seekers. You can:

• Use the Resource Lab
• Meet with local employers
• Get help from other support services

CareerForce offers:

• Computers for job searching and work use.
• Job search tools and printed materials.
• Job leads from the Southwest Metro area. 
• A printer, copier, scanner, and fax machine for job-related use.
• A Resource Room Specialist to help answer your questions. 
• Information about Housing Resources for people who are homeless, have low-income, or are at risk of losing housing. 

Helpful Documents and Tools

• Employment Agencies
• Internet Job Search Sites
• Job Transition and Networking Groups

Websites & Online Tools 

• Minnesota Dept. of Employment & Economic Development (DEED)
  • Job and Career Fairs
  • Labor Market Research and Analysis
  • CareerForce Creative Job Search Guide in a Digital World
• MinnesotaWorks.net Job Seeker Services

• 7 Truly Free Resume Builders with No Hidden Costs or Paywalls

Finding Employment After 55

• Resources for Employment after 55:

  • If you are 55+, your skills are valuable. Talk with a CareerForce specialist to find a matching job.

    You might also try these tips:

    • Use your network. Reach out to former coworkers and ask friends about job openings. Stay active in professional groups and community organizations. Networking is important because many jobs are never posted.
    • Build your online network. If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, create one. Need help? Watch a tutorial online or meet with a CareerForce specialist.
    • Update your resume. A functional resume may work best because it highlights your skills and accomplishments. Many employers use software to scan resumes, so include the skills listed in the job posting.
    • Show recent achievements. In your cover letter and interviews, talk about recent successes and how they helped past employers. Include any training or certifications you’ve completed.

Job Seekers with a Criminal Record: Resources and Support

• If you have a criminal record, finding a job can feel hard, but you are not alone and help is available.

• Employers often do background checks, so know what’s on your record and be ready to talk about it.

• A criminal history can make searching harder, but it doesn’t stop you. Many employers give second chances, and community resources are available to support you.

Helpful Job Search Resources for People with a Criminal Background

• Employment Handbook A guide to your rights and how to show your strengths while job hunting.

More Support:

• Career One Stop

• Minnesota Recovery Connection - Jobs for Felons

• CareerForce MN Justice-Involved Resources

• New Leaf (Justice Involved) Workshops

• MN Goodwill Easter Seals Reentry Program

Programs to Help You Stand Out 

Share these programs with employers during your interview.

Federal Bonding Program

•  This program gives employers a free insurance bond of up to $5,000 when they hire someone with a criminal background. Less than 1% of these bonds have had claims out of more than 40,000 bonds issues. It helps employers feel safe giving people a second chance. 

Work Opportunity Tax Credit

• Employers can get a federal tax credit of up to $9,600 for hiring someone with a felony, if they’re hired within one year of release or conviction. This can help them feel more confident in hiring you.

Phone: (952) 361-1711

Email: workforcecenter@carvercountymn.gov

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