Agency’s nationally recognized program has helped open the doors to new jobs and careers for more than 1,700 workers since 2011
April is national “Second Chance” month and to help kick-off this month of recognition, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is hosting an in-person hiring event on Saturday April 8, for its Second Chance Program (SCP) – a nationally recognized, holistic workforce program that provides valuable job skills and career opportunities to Chicago residents who often face challenges re-entering the workforce.
Since 2011, CTA’s Second Chance Program has served more than 1,700 of the City of Chicago’s justice involved residents and others who face barriers to employment. To date, more than 500 program participants have secured permanent positions within the CTA, with some having risen through the ranks to management. Other SCP graduates have utilized the skills they learned at CTA to secure jobs with other employers.
“The pandemic impacted every aspect of our lives, but one group that has been hit particularly hard are those who can benefit from initiatives like CTA’s Second Chance Program, which is seeking applicants looking for a fresh start,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “Most importantly, if you become part of the Second Change Program, you’re not just getting a job, rather a holistic program that provides training, career path assistance, upskilling opportunities, mentoring, networking, and other support and resources to aide in re-entering the workforce.”
To attend this in-person event, interested candidates must complete the following online survey: http://transitchicago.questionpro.com/SCPJobFair. Once approved, an email invitation will be sent with more details, including reserving your spot for one of the available sessions on Saturday, April 8 from 8-11 a.m. or 1-4 p.m. Space is limited, so apply now!
During these sessions, attendees will learn about the Second Chance Program, complete a CTA job application, receive date and time for an interview and pre-employment process, participate in a resource fair and meet CTA leadership, program staff and partners who are there to answer any questions.
To qualify for the Second Chance Program, interested individuals must be a City of Chicago resident, 18 years or older, have a barrier to employment - justice involved, domestic violence survivor, or have housing insecurities, must be and remain drug free (including marijuana), show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 per CDC standards and have an interest in janitorial work.
The CTA Second Chance Program has many program benefits including: 40 work hours per week for at least one-year ($15.40 hourly rate); paid Commercial Learner’s Permit training; professional development opportunities; workshops and assistance to apply for permanent CTA Positions; plus, free transportation on CTA, Metra and Pace!  
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