Carbon County residents looking for help when job hunting or maybe even a career change, have a place to go that will provide support, as well as lists of available job opportunities.

Recently, members of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry visited Carbon County to officially open the new PA CareerLink site in Nesquehoning.

While CareerLink has been in the office building at 50 E. Locust St., Suite 1 for more than two years, COVID stopped the state from holding a grand opening celebration.

Samuel Hellen, executive director of Pocono Counties Workforce Development Area, said that the space offers people a safe place to go to apply for jobs, complete trainings and get advice.

“We’re hoping to make sure everyone is aware of the CareerLink site and the services we provide,” Hellen said. “We’re here to help people overcome barriers in finding employment and want to make sure the community is aware of it.”

He said that there are computers available for job seekers to come in and search, build resumes, complete applications and more.

“We provide a number of services. There’s training assistance, workshops, and the resource center. There are also veteran services. So there is a lot of service for any job seeker, whether you’ve just been laid off, are a youth, looking for a new career or upskilling, there are services available.”

Hellen added that while the world has pretty much gone digital, CareerLink has tried to help bridge the gap of digital literacy by providing the resource center with internet capabilities, as well as ADA resources.

“This new facility is an example of PA CareerLink Carbon County’s commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of their community and making meaningful connections with the next generation of Pennsylvania workers,” said Carol Momjian, special adviser to Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker. “Congratulations to everyone involved who made this new facility possible. I look forward to working together to continue to provide critical employment resources to the people of Carbon County.”

The site is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is staffed, but setting up an appointment if you need assistance is best.

CareerLink has had a presence in Carbon County for years, with the site formerly located in Jim Thorpe.

Hellen said this new location provides ample parking and more space for staff and job seekers to be able to work together.

For more information on CareerLink go to www.carboncareerlink.org or call 570-325-2701.