This Queensland Youth Week (11-17 April 2023) we explore a core question that young people in Cairns ask: How do I get a job in Cairns?
Living and working in Cairns is a fantastic experience. More than $2 billion of development projects are underway in the region, representing significant employment opportunities.
In fact, demand for skilled workers is outstripping supply in growing industries including health care and social assistance, manufacturing and digital technologies. Other top employing industries include tourism, construction, retail, and transport and logistics.
Wendy Sike is the business manager of Jobfind’s youth employment service in the Cairns region, Workforce Australia-Transition to Work.
Wendy says: “Many young people aren’t aware of the variety of jobs available to them – they need support to discover jobs they’d like.”
That’s where Jobfind’s friendly team of Youth Mentors in the Transition to Work service can help.
Wendy and Youth Mentor, Erin Nosworthy-Clarke recently spoke with Mike Friganiotis on Cairns FM 89.1 and shared some job tips for young people.
L to R: Mike Friganiotis, Erin Nosworthy-Clarke, Wendy Sike
It’s okay if you “haven’t got a clue”
Erin says it’s very common for young people to want a job but struggle with where to start.
“Often, a young participant says ‘I haven’t got a clue’ when I ask them what type of work they are looking for,” explains Erin.
Erin’s advice: Start by listing the types of activities and environments you enjoy. It might be computers, being outside, fashion or helping others.
It’s perfectly okay to feel uncertain about transitioning into work when you’re young, especially if you left school early or haven’t engaged with school or work for a while.
Get help from someone you trust
Jobfind’s Transition to Work service is staffed by experienced youth mentors who can help young people aged 15-24 years create a pathway into employment or further education.
Jobfind is entrusted by the Australian Government to deliver its youth employment service, and provides personalized support to participants for up to 18 months. The support to youth includes preparing them for work or vocational study, helping them find a job or course, and settling them into their new role as a worker or adult learner.
Wendy’s advice: School counsellors or transition officers, parents or carers, and services like Jobfind can support young people as they transition to work.
A trusted person can help with things like:
- Uncovering your strengths, capabilities and interests
- Introducing you to local employers and educators
- Building your confidence and self-belief
There are jobs in Cairns
The Cairns Local Jobs Program has identified a number of growing industries looking for new talent:
- Tourism
- Hospitality
- Retail
- Supply Chain
- Manufacturing
In partnership with The Today Group and Jobfind, the Workforce Australia – Local Jobs program in Cairns is funding a 5-week pre-employment program for young people looking for a start in the workforce.
To enquire or enrol, contact Noel Tobias at Jobfind on 0456 568 840.
Download brochure for MEnhance your soft skills
There are several soft skills that employers value in a young person starting their first job. In the Transition to Work program, young people build their soft skills in:
- Communication – being able to understand and convey information effectively with colleagues and customers.
- Time management – being able to manage time so as to meet deadlines and accomplish tasks efficiently.
- Adaptability – being flexible and resilient to adapt to change and take on new challenges.
- Teamwork – being able to work collaboratively with others and contribute positively to a team.
- Problem solving – being able to identify and solve a problem independently or in collaboration with others.
Keep building
In Jobfind’s Transition to Work program in Cairns, participants can receive up to 18 months of pre and post-employment support.
This is because as young people learn more about themselves, they may discover that they are capable of achieving more than they originally believed, which can lead to changes in their career and educational goals.
“A young person in their first job may choose to upskill and our ongoing involvement can help them to get new licenses or qualifications to keep building their careers.”
Employers, too, appreciate long-term employees who want to grow with their business.
In summary
Getting a job in Cairns is an exciting prospect! Young people in Cairns can contact Jobfind’s Transition to Work service for support to:
- Discover a wide variety of job opportunities
- Explore job preferences and entry pathways
- Prepare to enter industries that have room to grow
- Enhance your soft skills for work
- Keep building your technical skills and qualifications
- Boost your confidence as you learn more about your capabilities and interests
About Transition to Work
Workforce Australia – Transition to Work delivered by Jobfind is designed to support and empower young people aged 15-24 years to gain the skills and experience they need to secure meaningful employment.
At Jobfind, participants work one-on-one with a Youth Mentor to engage with education and employment opportunities in their local area. Jobfind offers Transition to Work in Cairns QLD and surrounding areas. For more information, visit: https://jobfind.com.au/job-seekers/young-people/
