1) Some positions will lead to opportunities with initial pay of $16/hr.
Detroit residents who are at least 18 years old are eligible for Skills for Life. Candidates must first be hired by the City of Detroit before being considered for the program.
Visit detroitatwork.com/skillsforlife or the City of Detroit’s website to learn more about Skills for Life eligible positions.
The start date of training will vary by program. On average, participants begin their training or education program within one to three months of starting with the city. During the new employee orientation, a career coach will meet with you to discuss your career interests and administer an assessment to determine which pathway would be best to meet your goals.
Most participants of Skills for Life will work three days a week and train for two days a week. Work schedules can be either Monday through Friday or Tuesday through Saturday.
Training schedules will differ by program. You may be required to work full-time for a minimum of 100 days before starting a full-time training program that meets 5 days a week.
- GED
- Skills Refresh*
- CDL-A
- CDL-B
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Masonry Restoration
- Pre-Apprentice Electrical Technician
- Pre-Apprentice Carpentry
- Welding MIG Production
Everyone will also benefit from career readiness workshops and training.
Each training program has different entry requirements. *Should a participant needs a refresher of English and Math concepts, the Skills Refresh program will provide this prior to entering the desired training path.
1 Newly added program for Fall 2022. Some positions will lead to opportunities with initial pay of $16/hr.
The program will vary in length depending on which education and training track is selected. Most participants will be in the program between 6 and 12 months. After participants complete the training/education portion and earn a credential, they can remain in the Skills for Life program for up to two additional months while Detroit at Work helps them search for long-term, full-time employment that pays at least $17/hour.
The same wage per hour will be paid for work hours as well as for educational/training hours.
Blight Remediation Technician (TASS) - $15 or current (whichever is greater)
Environmental Technician - $15 or current (whichever is greater)
Supports provided include the following:
- Individual Career Planning and Coaching and Mentoring
- Utilities Assistance
- Transportation Assistance
- Connection to Childcare Services
- Help with Getting Work Clothing and Tools for Future Employment
- Connection with Physical and Mental Health Services
- Connection to Housing Support
