Job & Career in Mississippi

4 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 Mississippi

Mississippi chancery courts handle divorce and custody in all 82 counties, with county courts handling some child support matters. The Division of Child Support Enforcement operates under MDHS. Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, and Hattiesburg are the largest cities. Mississippi Center for Justice and North Mississippi Rural Legal Services provide civil legal aid for low-income fathers.

4 Resources

1. Mississippi Department of Employment Security — Free

State agency administering unemployment insurance, job listings, and workforce development programs statewide. Main office at 235 Echelon Pkwy in Jackson, open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Fathers can file unemployment claims, search jobs, and access reemployment services online or at local WIN Job Centers. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, recent employment history, and any separation paperwork when applying for unemployment benefits.

601-321-6000 · 235 Echelon Pkwy, Jackson, MS 39213 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

2. Goodwill Industries – Mississippi — Free

Nonprofit offering job training, career development, and employment services to Mississippi residents with barriers to work. Office at 305 W Jackson St in Ridgeland, open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Fathers can call for information on current training programs, job placement, and resume support. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history to intake. Many services are free to participants, though some specialized training may require enrollment.

601-353-7656 · 305 W Jackson St, Ridgeland, MS 39157 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Mississippi Vocational Rehabilitation — Free

State agency helping Mississippians with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep employment through counseling, training, and placement services. Office at 1281 Hwy 51 in Madison, open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Fathers with disabilities, or parents of children with disabilities transitioning to work, can call for eligibility screening. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, medical records, and any prior school or employment records to intake.

601-853-5100 · 1281 Hwy 51, Madison, MS 39110 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Jackson Urban League – Employment — Free

Jackson-based nonprofit offering career development, job readiness training, and placement services for underserved workers. Office at 960 N Farish St, open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Fathers can call for intake and current program availability. Services may include resume workshops, interview prep, digital skills training, and referrals to local employers. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history when applying for program enrollment.

601-714-4600 · 960 N Farish St, Jackson, MS 39202 · 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.