I'm planning to move to Alaska. How do I find a job there?


 

 

 

Q:
I'm planning to move to Alaska. How do I find a job there?

A:
Try to get a job before you get here. Alaska housing and food costs can eat through savings quickly. Newspaper classified ads and the state employment service can help.  This link won't help you find a job, however it will give you a gauge as to what you'll need to earn if you wish to have the same standard of living you're currently do.  Salary Calculator

According to Alaska's Division of Employment Security (ADES):

A Caution: Exercise caution when you see books or ads that guarantee "big money jobs" in Alaska. Many simply offer names of companies and require you to find your own job. The information provided is often inaccurate. Companies outside Alaska calling themselves the Alaska Employment Service (or something similar) and offering employment services for a fee are not associated with the State of Alaska, Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Employment Services Program.

Before you come to Alaska: You should have a round trip ticket and cash or credit card resources ($2,000 for temporary and $3,000 for permanent work) to live on while looking for work. Many who arrived short of cash encountered serious hardship and shattered dreams. Public assistance programs cannot be counted on by persons relocating to Alaska without adequate funds. Homesteading is not available now. The climate and unpredictable summer weather generally discourage camper or tent living for extended periods. You cannot travel through Canada without showing customs officials cash and/or credit cards that are good in Canada.

Several sites on the Internet list job openings. Read the classified ads in the Anchorage Daily News and Juneau Empire. Check out America's Job Bank. A few shortage occupations with the State of Alaska are open to applicants from out of state. If you find a job vacancy to your liking, negotiate with the employer via phone, e-mail or fax, and you may land a solid job offer before coming to Alaska.

A great deal more information is offered on the ADES page at this link.  Good luck with your new career!  :o)