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Competitive Integrated Employment Services (CIES)

Competitive Integrated Employment Services (CIES) provides training, education, and job readiness services to families who are interested in obtaining employment and who are receiving Transitional Aid for Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) through the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA).  

The main goal of CIES is to help people successfully connect with a career—and a career pathway—where they will stay employed and achieve career growth. Support is given at each step of this journey: The CIES program will assess the needs of a participant’s family and identify both their current work skills and challenges to employment. In partnership with a professional, participants will seek and pursue opportunities (skills development, work-related activities) that will support their goals for employment. All in pursuit of greater economic mobility and household resilience. 

Eligibility 

All CIES participants must have a current referral from DTA. They must also meet the four criteria below: 

  1. Be a TAFDC recipient and/or the non-custodial parent of a child who receives TAFDC 
  2. Be unemployed or underemployed 
  3. Have an employment goal 
  4. Need support to address barriers to career readiness 

Services: 

  • Assessment and goal setting 
  • Individualized employment planning 
  • Job development and placement 
  • Resume preparation 
  • Interview skills 
  • Life skills training 
  • ESOL and English for employment 
  • Adult Basic Education 
  • Occupational/vocational training 
  • Industry recognized certification 
  • Financial management 

How to apply 

If interested, contact DTA.EmploymentServices@state.ma.us or your local office’s Full Engagement Worker. 

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