Where the Jobs Should Be in Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Despite the number of layoffs at companies in all industries, WorkSource Florida cites three career fields in Jacksonville that have each sought more than 500 new employees since October.

According to WorkSource Florida's online database, more than 500 positions have been posted as job opportunities in the fields of information technology, management and sales, and health care.

Job placement experts say the types of in-demand IT jobs have changed in recent years, with more expertise in network systems desired.

At the same time, experts say those careers aren't paying what they used to.

Positions in management and sales also top the list.

Experts say there is always a scarcity of talent among those positions, from managing restaurants to leading non-profits, to overseeing offices.

The health care also holds many in-demand careers at this time.

Experts say the industry, with its growing demand for elderly care and high turnover rate, is a good field to look for a job.

At the same time, many people with experience in all three of these fields are having a hard time finding work.

Debora Gonsalves has worked as a home health care aide for fifteen years.

Only recently have she and her business partner had trouble finding clients.

"Have not found much. Not since the whole economy went down," Gonsalves said.

To advertise their services, the two women have posted ads on Craig's List and in local newspapers.

WorkSource Florida experts say one problem people like Debora face, is competition.

While the jobs are out there, several people may be vying for just one position.

Comfort Keepers, for example, is one home health care agency in Jacksonville that continually hires aides; but on a selective basis.

"Our standards are very high in our company. We're looking for people who have intrinsic motivation," said owner Kathryn Murphy, who is also a Registered Nurse.

While Debora doesn't have a problem with motivation, she acknowledges she's fighting to find work in a competitive but weak economy.

"Come January, it may be better," Gonsalves said with optimism.

Job placement experts offer this advice when searching for work:

Concentrate on high turnover jobs, like waiting tables in restaurants.

Also, position yourself for jobs that are difficult, or are not necessarily fun; for example, debt collection.

It might not be the most positive job, but experts say debt collectors are always needed, and the jobs are not highly sought after.

An unexpected place to look for work: financial services.

While banks may be laying of mortgage brokers, the flip side is that positions like collection and foreclosure services are in demand.

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