Employment Development Department, Workforce Services

Organization Description

The Employment Development Department (EDD) offers a wide variety of services to millions of Californians under Unemployment Insurance (UI), State Disability Insurance (SDI), workforce investment (Jobs and Training), and Labor Market Information programs. As the state's largest tax collection agency, the EDD also handles the audit and collection of payroll taxes and maintains employment records for more than 17 million California workers.

One of the largest state departments, the EDD has employees located at hundreds of service locations throughout California who provide many important services to millions each year, including:

  • Assisting employers with their labor needs.
  • Helping job seekers obtain employment.
  • Administering the federally-funded workforce investment programs for adults, dislocated workers, and youth.
  • Assisting disadvantaged recipients in becoming self-sufficient.
  • Helping unemployed and disabled workers through the administration of the UI and SDI programs.
  • Supporting state activities and benefit programs by collecting and administering employment-related taxes (UI, SDI, Employment Training Tax, and Personal Income Tax withholding).
Program Information

EDD Workforce Services offers a dynamic practicum experience that prepares students for professional social work practice in workforce development and employment services. Through hands-on learning, students will develop essential skills in case management by assessing client needs, creating employment plans, and connecting individuals with resources such as mental health support and financial assistance. They will also gain experience in employment counseling by assisting clients with resume writing, job search strategies, and interview preparation while facilitating workforce readiness workshops. Additionally, students will learn about state and federal workforce policies, program implementation, and data reporting, gaining insight into the broader impact of employment services on underserved communities. The practicum also provides opportunities for advocacy and community engagement, allowing students to collaborate with organizations, promote diversity and inclusion, and help remove barriers to employment. This experience equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between social work and workforce services, enhancing their ability to support individuals in achieving economic stability and career success. 

The ability to work independently while also being a team player is important, as students will engage in case management, employment counseling, and outreach efforts. A proactive attitude and the ability to "jump in" will help students make the most of their practicum experience, especially when working with diverse populations facing employment barriers. Additionally, patience, empathy, and cultural competence are crucial when assisting individuals from various backgrounds. Finally, strong organizational skills and attention to detail will be valuable when managing client information, documenting case notes, and following workforce policies. 

Health & Safety

At EDD Workforce Services, students may encounter unique factors such as working with clients experiencing high levels of stress, frustration, or financial hardship, which can sometimes lead to difficult or emotionally charged interactions. While the risk of aggressive behavior is generally low, students should be prepared to de-escalate tense situations and maintain professionaly boundaries. Additionally, the role may involve working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those facing housing insecurity, mental health challenges, or legal barriers to employment. Students may also be required to travel to job fairs, community events, or partner organizations, which could involve navigating different locations and adapting to various environments. Maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in public spaces is essential when conducting outreach or assisting clients. 
Additional requirements and/or considerations
  • Background Check (e.g. fingerprinting/livescan, driving record)
Address 
1325 Pine Street
Redding, CA 96001
United States
Website:
https://edd.ca.gov/en/about_edd/edd_services/
Program(s) 
Social Work
Organization type 
Human, Social, or Employment Services (Government)
Focus Population(s)
Adults, Non-specific/any population
Focus Area(s)
Advocacy and Human Rights, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Social Justice