Work Experience is a temporary or part-time assignment that encourages individuals to develop good work habits and basic work skills, which will promote employability. Career Specialists assist with developing worksite agreements with various businesses to provide employment and training to individuals with little or no work experience.

Eligibility

  • Adults age 25-64

  • Cherokee Nation Tribal Citizen or citizen of a federally recognized tribe (unless grant provisions allow service to non-Indians).

  • Resident of the Cherokee Nation 14-County Reservation.

  • Meet one of the qualifying factors of being unemployed, underemployed; OR meet 150% federal poverty income guidelines; OR have a barrier to employment, as defined by the Department.

  • In need of employment experience to become self-sufficient.

The program provides an hourly wage of up to 40 hours per week. Participant files must be completed and approved before placement. Placement may be approved for a 12-week period, with the possibility of an additional 12-week extension with Management approval.

Required Documents

  • Verification of Tribal Membership

  • Verification of Residency

  • Photo ID

Additional Documents are required on a case-by-case basis as outlined in the downloadable Documents Needed List.

How to Apply

Applicants can apply at Career Services offices in Tahlequah, Catoosa, Dewey, Jay, Muskogee, Pryor, Sallisaw, Stilwell and Vinita any time Monday through Friday 8:00am-5:00pm*.

You can also call our main number at (918) 453-5555 to be connected with a local field office for assistance.

*Some locations may be by appointment only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verification of Tribal Membership, Verification of Residency, Photo ID, with additional documents required as requested. (Please refer to the downloadable Documents Needed List)

Work Experience is a temporary or part-time assignment that encourages individuals to develop good work habits and basic work skills, which will promote employability.

Adults age of 25-64, Cherokee Nation Citizens, federally recognized Tribal Members, applicants who meet program guidelines and funding requirements.

Up to 12 weeks with the possibility of an extension with Management approval. Duration depends on funding availability, participant progress, and/or work site needs.

Yes, participants are paid an hourly wage set by the program. This is not permanent employment and does not guarantee a job at the worksite.

Updated August 28, 2026