HELP WANTED: Milwaukee seeks fresh crop of employees to fill transitional jobs

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- The City of Milwaukee is looking to hire a fresh crop of employees -- particularly those who might have trouble landing a job elsewhere. However, you'll need to meet some very specific criteria to qualify.

A small crowd of curious job seeks listened politely on Wednesday, February 11th as city officials explained their push to hire more than a hundred transitional workers. Those jobs only last six months and pay at least $10.10 an hour. But they're aimed at those who have been down-and-out of late.

"We're looking at people who have had trouble staying in the workforce because I believe very strongly that there's a positive momentum that comes with work that once you get back in the workforce then you want to continue working you like that paycheck," said Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett.

Not just anyone can apply. Individuals interested in applying for the Compete Milwaukee transitional jobsMUST meet the following requirements:

NOTE: Individuals who participated in the Transform Milwaukee Jobs Program are not eligible to participate in Compete Milwaukee.

"One of the number one issues we have is the employment or the unemployment of black and brown males in our community," said Milwaukee Alderman Willie Wade. "So in order for them to get job opportunities, we need more programs like this."

The Transitional Jobs Program has been around for a couple of years -- and will employ people in a variety of city positions. In the past, that has included things like filling potholes. The goal it to get work history on participants' resumes so they can land longer term jobs. Officials hope the investment pays off in other ways too.

"When people have their own resources, it's less likely that they'll be trying to take resources from other people. So it's a direct link between unemployment and crime in this city, in cities all around the United States," said Wade.

For more information, job seekers can call UMOS at 414-389-6000 and visit city.milwaukee.gov/competemilwaukee