What is an American Job Center?

Free walk-in career center funded by the US Department of Labor. Services include job search help, resume writing, interview practice, computer access, WIOA training grants, and direct employer connections. Nearly 2,400 centers nationwide — find yours at careeronestop.org.

Can I get help if I have a record?

Yes. Many states have reentry employment programs; the Center for Employment Opportunities runs transitional jobs in 30+ cities. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit incentivizes employers to hire formerly-incarcerated workers. Fair Chance laws in many states restrict early background checks.

What's an apprenticeship?

Paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction leading to a journey-level credential. Common in trades (electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC) but expanding into healthcare, IT, and finance. Earn while you learn — no student debt. Find programs at apprenticeship.gov.

What if I'm on unemployment?

You likely qualify for free reemployment services through your American Job Center and for WIOA-funded training while receiving benefits. Dislocated worker services are priority for anyone laid off — including severance, retraining, and relocation support.

Job & Career in Maine

5 verified resources.

About Job & Career for Fathers

Job and career resources for fathers run through the American Job Center (AJC) network — there are roughly 2,400 physical locations nationwide, every one of which offers free services. AJCs provide job search assistance, resume and interview help, WIOA-funded training (often up to

0,000+ in tuition and fees for in-demand occupations), and connections to apprenticeships. Every state has a workforce agency that oversees unemployment insurance, labor market information, and rapid response services for laid-off workers. Registered Apprenticeship programs pay workers while they train for skilled trades (electrician, plumber, HVAC, heavy equipment, and increasingly healthcare and IT). For formerly incarcerated fathers, state Department of Labor reentry programs and organizations like the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) provide transitional jobs and placement. This directory includes AJCs, workforce boards, apprenticeship programs, and reentry services.

Job & Career in Maine

Maine district courts handle most family matters; superior courts handle more complex cases and appeals. The Division of Support Enforcement and Recovery operates under DHHS. Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, and Auburn are the largest cities. Pine Tree Legal Assistance is the primary LSC-funded civil legal aid program, with a strong online self-help library covering custody and support.

5 Resources

1. Maine CareerCenters — Free

State workforce centers providing job search help, resume assistance, training referrals, and connections to unemployment benefits at sites across Maine. Fathers can call 207-623-7981 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm or visit the Commerce Drive office in Augusta. Bring photo ID, Social Security number, and resume or work history. Services are free to job seekers and include access to computers, workshops, and employer recruitment events.

207-623-7981 · 45 Commerce Dr, Augusta, ME 04330 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

2. Maine Department of Labor — Free

State agency handling unemployment benefits, job listings, workforce training programs, and employer labor law guidance. Fathers can call 207-623-7900 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm or visit maine.gov/labor to file unemployment claims, search jobs, and apply for training. Bring photo ID, Social Security number, and past employment information. The site also connects users to CareerCenters and apprenticeship programs statewide. Services are free to workers.

207-623-7900 · 54 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Goodwill Northern New England – Maine — Free

Nonprofit offering job training, career counseling, and employment placement services, especially for workers facing barriers to employment. Fathers can call 207-774-6323 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm or visit the Cumberland Avenue office in Portland. Bring photo ID, resume or work history, and any training records. Services are free to participants, and Goodwill's retail stores provide supported work experience for trainees preparing for community employment.

207-774-6323 · 353 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Maine Vocational Rehabilitation — Free

State employment services helping Maine residents with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and keep jobs, including training, assistive technology, and job placement. Fathers with disabilities can call 207-623-6799 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm to begin intake. Bring photo ID, Social Security number, medical documentation of disability, and work history. Services are free for eligible participants and customized to each person's employment goal through a written plan.

207-623-6799 · 150 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

5. Coastal Counties Workforce — Free

Regional workforce board coordinating job training, youth programs, and employer services across coastal midcoast Maine. Fathers can call 207-342-5470 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm or visit the Rockland office for help connecting with CareerCenters, WIOA-funded training, and employer recruitment events. Bring photo ID and work history to intake. Services are free to job seekers, with additional programs for out-of-school youth and dislocated workers.

207-342-5470 · Rockland, ME 04841 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Job & Career — Common Questions

What is an American Job Center?: Free walk-in career center funded by the US Department of Labor. Services include job search help, resume writing, interview practice, computer access, WIOA training grants, and direct employer connections. Nearly 2,400 centers nationwide — find yours at careeronestop.org.
Can I get help if I have a record?: Yes. Many states have reentry employment programs; the Center for Employment Opportunities runs transitional jobs in 30+ cities. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit incentivizes employers to hire formerly-incarcerated workers. Fair Chance laws in many states restrict early background checks.
What's an apprenticeship?: Paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction leading to a journey-level credential. Common in trades (electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC) but expanding into healthcare, IT, and finance. Earn while you learn — no student debt. Find programs at apprenticeship.gov.
What if I'm on unemployment?: You likely qualify for free reemployment services through your American Job Center and for WIOA-funded training while receiving benefits. Dislocated worker services are priority for anyone laid off — including severance, retraining, and relocation support.