Workforce Assistance

Burien is home to a talented, diverse, and highly capable workforce and thanks to a number of higher education and training programs in the area, tapping into this talent pipeline has also never been easier.

Whether you are looking to add employees or enhance the skills of your current workforce, the City of Burien is committed to helping you navigate a variety of resources and getting you the workforce you need. For businesses seeking to add or train employees, contact Economic Development Manager Chris Craig.

Find local talent

Tap into Burien’s talented and multi-lingual workforce by advertising your openings or reserving a table at a local career fair.

Train and develop talent

Build a talent pipeline or help current employees get the most from their professional development by utilizing opportunities through one of the many higher education institutions in the area.  

  • As the closest higher education institution to Burien, Highline College works directly with businesses to design, develop, and offer customized training that meets their particular needs. Also nearby are a variety of higher-education institutions offering a unique set of training programs and opportunities.
  • If you would like financial assistance with training or retraining your employees, the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges’ Job Skills Program (JSP) offers matching grants for up to 50 percent of training and retraining costs.
  • The Washington Customized Training Program for Employers (CTP) provides interest-free loan assistance to businesses that provide employment opportunities in the state. Training services that are funded by the program include:
    • English language for non-native speakers
    • Technical skills and job-related instruction
    • Skills assessment and evaluation
    • Training equipment, materials, facilities and supplies
    • Businesses that apply for funding through this program are eligible to receive B&O tax credits equal to 50 percent of the full cost of the training.