Are you looking to jumpstart a stable and fulfilling career in Los Angeles without years of prior experience? The City of Los Angeles offers a unique opportunity through the Targeted Local Hire (TLH) Program, a 6-month program designed to place motivated individuals on the path to long-term careers within city government. This innovative program provides paid, on-the-job training, making it an ideal launchpad for residents seeking career advancement in Los Angeles.
The TLH Program serves as an alternate route into City civil service, offering full-time, paid training for entry-level City positions. It’s an exceptional chance for individuals to be randomly selected for referral to various City departments, where they can be considered for entry-level jobs. Successful candidates embark on an initial 6-month on-the-job training period, complete with full-time pay and benefits, followed by a 6-month probationary period. Upon successful completion of probation, participants transition into full-time, regular civil service employment, securing a stable career within the City of Los Angeles.
While the program is designed to be accessible without strict minimum requirements or prior qualifications, it’s important for applicants to possess fundamental skills that will enable them to succeed in a full-time job training environment. To assess your readiness, the City provides a helpful Job Readiness Assessment Tool. Furthermore, TLH Program Referral Agencies are available to provide support and guidance to help you achieve the necessary job readiness.
Who Should Consider This 6-Month Career Program?
The Targeted Local Hire Program is open to all, but it specifically aims to support individuals from vulnerable and underserved communities. This 6-month career program is particularly beneficial for:
- Individuals facing barriers to employment.
- Residents of underserved communities within Los Angeles.
- Those seeking a career change and entry into civil service.
- Anyone motivated to work in public service and contribute to the City of Los Angeles.
The program actively encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, ensuring equal opportunity and fostering a workforce that reflects the rich tapestry of Los Angeles.
Explore Career Pathways: Vocational Worker and Office Trainee Roles
The TLH Program focuses on two primary career pathways: Vocational Worker and Office Trainee. These entry-level positions serve as the starting point for your 6-month career program and subsequent journey within City service. Importantly, there are no minimum educational requirements to apply for these roles, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals eager to begin their careers in Los Angeles.
Starting as a Vocational Worker or Office Trainee means you will receive:
- Full-Time Employment: Secure and stable work from day one.
- Competitive Hourly Wage: Earn at least $21.50 per hour, with specific details available in the Office Trainee and Vocational Worker info sheets.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Access health insurance, retirement plans, and commute assistance options.
- Paid On-the-Job Training: Gain practical skills and experience while earning a paycheck through the 6-month program.
To be eligible for this 6-month career program, applicants need to:
- Have a genuine interest in pursuing a City career.
- Be assessed as “job ready” by a TLH Program Referral Agency. These agencies evaluate basic fundamental skills necessary for job success. If you are not initially deemed “job ready,” these agencies offer resources and training to help you reach the required level.
- Possess the legal right to work in the United States.
- Meet any additional requirements that may be specified for particular roles.
Alt text: Vocational Worker career path progression within Los Angeles City government, starting with a 6-month training program and leading to various specialized roles and promotional opportunities.
The 6-month program is just the beginning. As illustrated in the career ladder, these entry-level positions can lead to diverse and advancing roles within the City. Furthermore, additional promotional opportunities are available through City civil service exams and career ladders, offering pathways for continued professional growth and development beyond the initial 6-month program. For a detailed view of career advancement possibilities, refer to the TLH Career Ladder Poster.
Your Application to the 6-Month Career Program: Step-by-Step
Applying for the Targeted Local Hire Program and taking the first step towards your 6-month career involves a structured process to ensure you are prepared for success.
Step 1: Job Readiness Assessment. Begin by participating in a job readiness assessment at a Referral Agency. These agencies will evaluate your fundamental skills and determine if you are “job ready” for the program.
Step 2: Agency Referral Form. If deemed “job ready,” you will receive a signed Agency Referral Form, a crucial document for your application. If not yet “job ready,” Referral Agencies will guide you to resources and support services to help you develop the necessary skills.
Step 3: Orientation and Application Session. Once you have your Agency Referral Form, contact an Application Site to schedule an LA Local Hire Program Orientation & Application Session. During this session, you will receive a comprehensive program overview and complete your online application. It is essential to have a valid Agency Referral Form or referral code to avoid disqualification.
To find the Referral Agency or Application Site nearest you and start your journey towards a 6-month career program in Los Angeles, click here. For a helpful checklist to guide you through the application process, please see the Application Checklist.
Random Selection: How Candidates are Chosen for Hire
Once your application is approved, it enters the Applicant Pool. When City departments have entry-level vacancies, they request a list of candidates from this pool. Candidates are then randomly selected* for referral to the department for hiring consideration. This random selection process ensures fairness and equal opportunity for all applicants within the 6-month program pool.
*The Applicant Pool is divided into two Tiers. Tier 1 includes candidates who identify as belonging to one or more targeted categories (underserved communities), while Tier 2 comprises candidates who do not identify or choose not to identify with these categories. When a department needs to fill an entry-level position, they request a Referral List from the program. The system filters the Applicant Pool based on job preferences indicated in the application and then randomly selects candidates. Referral Lists are composed of 80% Tier 1 and 20% Tier 2 applicants.
Important Note: Participation in the TLH Program and completion of the 6-month program does not guarantee a referral or job offer. Referrals and hiring are dependent on available vacancies and the random selection process. While program staff cannot provide specific timelines for referral or hiring, applications remain valid for one year. Candidates will receive email notifications about renewal options approximately 30 days before their application expires.
Despite the competitive nature of job placement, the 6-month program career path offered by the Targeted Local Hire Program represents a significant opportunity to gain valuable skills, experience, and entry into stable City employment within Los Angeles. It’s a chance to invest in yourself and build a lasting public service career.
