Mississippi Department of Employment Security
Serving Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee, Oktibbeha Counties
About
The Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES) is the state government agency responsible for expanding employment opportunities, administering workforce development programs, managing unemployment benefits, and connecting job seekers with employers across Mississippi. Key services offered include:
Job Search & Placement Services: Connects job seekers with openings statewide, hosts the Governor's Job Fair Network, and provides access to local WIN Job Centers for computer use, resume building, and career counseling.
Veterans Services (Priority of Service): Grants military veterans and eligible spouses priority referral to job openings, dedicated one-on-one career coaching, civilian skills translation (converting military roles to civilian equivalents), and targeted support for disabled or transitioning veterans under the Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG).
Unemployment Insurance (UI): Manages unemployment claim filings, processes weekly benefit certifications, and provides re-employment services for workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own.
Workforce Training & Apprenticeships: Partners with community colleges and local employers to offer vocational training, career assessments, and hands-on learning through the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program (MAP).
Specialized Employment Programs: Provides tailored job assistance programs for seniors (SCSEP), individuals with disabilities, and youth.
Essential details
Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
Call for availability
Free
By availability
Who is eligible
Contact prior to appointment to confirm needed documents
Spanish language support
Spanish-speaking staff available.
Spanish-language materials available.