Thriving C.O. job market poses challenge for some

After months of looking, Bend woman still struggling to find a job

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Despite plenty of openings, The High Desert's job market can be quite competitive, especially when someone’s looking for a job that requires certain qualifications.

Katie Jalo recently moved to Bend and has been looking for a job for the last two months.

Jalo has a master's degree in public administration and policy, but still hasn’t had much luck with her job hunt. She posted to Facebook, asking community members in Bend for help finding a job.

Many responders suggested Jalo might be overqualified for the jobs she’s been applying for.

Jalo is looking for jobs in the public sector, and was hoping for a position with the library or the city of Bend. Jalo grew up in Bend and moved back in October to be with family.

“I thought that it might be a little easier with a degree,” Jalo said Wednesday. “I figured it was worth it to come and be with family -- at least give it a try.”

Stephanie Miller of Express Employment Professionals said one of the easiest tips she can give to new city transplants would be to plan ahead.

“The best advice I can give is to look ahead and use sites like LinkedIn or ZipRecruiter,” Miller said.

Despite Jalo’s struggles, the unemployment rate in Deschutes County is at its lowest in the last 30 years. In October, the unemployment rate was at 3.4%.

Jalo admitted she’s been discouraged by how many rejections she’s received, but also said she landed one of her first interviews Wednesday/

“Yeah, I’m definitely optimistic maybe in the next month’” Jalo said. “I don’t want to get too excited, but I think it’s got to work out.”