Syracuse-based staffing agency Staffworks says the number of people looking for work has tripled in the last two weeks as the kids head back to class full-time and the federal COVID-19 unemployment benefits end.
"We have been at an all-time high," Senior Vice President Karen Walser said. "I think that they want to get back to work. We're seeing that people want to be a part of the solution."
The federal unemployment and extended employment benefits ended earlier this month around the same time kids started class again. Walser says parents are still looking for flexibility.
"Because, as you know, at any point in time due to COVID, they could be shut down," she said. "If parents need to get their children on the bus and get them off the bus, we’re offering 9 to 2 work hours."
She says the businesses looking to hire understand the desires of the people and are adjusting accordingly. Even with jobs that require workers to be in-person, like manufacturing, she says they are offering the adjusted schedule. Some can even offer a remote option if the candidate is looking for that.
"I think right now a lot of just entry-level. We’ve had people that have not worked and have explained they have not worked since 2018," she said.
Pamela Byrd is looking for a new job in the medical field. She says she's been working throughout the pandemic in the field and wants a change of pace. Using avenues like ZipRecruiter and Indeed to try and find her next gig, she says the experience is a challenge.
"I find that a lot of employers are not as willing to hire people that don’t have a lot of experience," she said. "Because I don’t have a lot of experience besides much in healthcare, it’s more difficult for me to find a job."
During a Facebook Live video, some shared their also on the marketplace for a new job.
"Looking for work but there is no daycare out there anywhere," one viewer wrote.