Uncategorized

Oregon reopens WorkSource offices as unemployment requirements change

(Amanda Loman/Salem Reporter)

The Oregon Employment Department announced Monday that WorkSource centers are open to the public for the first time since closing to comply with Covid regulations in April of last year.

That includes a center in Salem at 605 Cottage St N.E., as well as locations in Dallas and Woodburn.

The reopening of the WorkSource centers and the launching of a new website coincides with changes to unemployment benefits. 

As of July 25, all people receiving unemployment insurance are required to report work search activity when filing a weekly claim, OED said in a statement. Additionally, those receiving unemployment insurance and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation must register through iMatchSkills and complete a job seeker profile.

Requirements of being available for work, OED said in a statement, are being phased in through September 1 but the agency is monitoring the ongoing pandemic and its impact on individuals’ ability to meet that requirement. 

“WorkSource Oregon helps people find jobs and businesses find talent and the reopening of local WorkSource Oregon centers is a major milestone in Oregon’s recovery from the pandemic. We are very happy to be open again and helping customers find work and explore their career options in person,” said Jim Pfarrer, director of Workforce Operations for the Oregon Employment Department in a written statement released Monday. 

Job seekers can visit WorkSource offices in person from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday but must wear a mask. 

Services available at WorkSource include one-on-one help from an employment specialist, public computers, hiring events, on-the-job training, resume workshops and job matching as well as veterans’ services. 

Job seekers needing help in Marion, Polk, Linn and Yamhill counties can reach a local WorkSource Center by calling 503-378-4846.

-Caitlyn May