Offical ChiefsPlanet Unemployment thread!!
 

Hey everyone. I thought we could use a thread to network and discuss for those of us who are without a job and hurting right now. I have not been able to find anything since December 08, and recently have been told I cannot become a police officer due to my credit history and using marijuana within the past three years. Both of which are my own fault, but in Cartersville GA not even fast food places are hiring. I need your help Planeteers, and I know others do too. Post your unemployment stories, share some tips, or just drop someone an encouraging thought. Sorry to be melodramatic, but it is my birthday, and being 29 and mostly unable to provide for my family, today is a bitter pill to swallow. If you need a job, give your location and skills. I have a background in production/manufacturing and retail management in a convenience store. I lost my job in December, finally giving up the struggle to work for a man who had a vendetta against me from day one, and personal fallout from denying that I had bi-polar disorder and coming off my meds. With that termination on my record, my chances are slim to none, as a railcar plant just closed, adding around 700 people to my competition for even the smallest of jobs. Hang in there fellow job seekers, and good luck to those trying to move up from a crappy job. Also, click the poll, let us know your status. Thanks!

Been unemployed since December. Fighting the seat belt laws is my new career!

ROFL. Shoot, man, I unbuckle before I even turn into the neighborhood. I'm gangster like that.

Damn it all. All my threads are Epic FAIL!

Dude. I hope you don't seriously walk into places and say "Well I got fired from my last job, but......."

Lie dude. They're probably not going to call the local drug store to check it out.

How the hell do you survive after being unemployed for six months?

And what Floppy said, lie.

I got unemployeded at the end of December, but then I got employeded at the end of January. My earnings for the year are down about 25% but that's still better than a $360 check from the gubmint.

Yes, lie?

What are they going to do? Fire you?

They'd have to hire you first.

Don't "lie" just don't tell every detail. Don't blantantly manufacture things that aren't true. For instance, I hate my current job. But when I interview I will say I'm looking for more opportunity to utilize my skills.

Liar.

First off, hang out at churches, they are always giving away some shit, then always troll nieghborhoods for sofa's or something people are leaving you can always flip that stuff for money. Then get you one of those "green" bags and pay for half the shit at the store, steal the rest, people will be so caught up in you GOING GREEN, they don't pay attention that you stole eggs. Next step is only eat eggs, they are cheap and give you protein. Make sure you do push ups and sit ups because that is the shit that will get you in shape to steal shit. Learn to love ramon and play guitar. Get some friends with money and hang out whenever you want, whenever you feel that they maybe kicking you out tell them what a good friend they are and like ask them a bunch of questions about their day like you REALLY GIVE A SHIT that way they will feel bad about kicking you out. Then make sure when you are hanging out you say that you FOUND GOD and read some scriptures just loud enough they can hear you about the HELP THE ****ING POOR and shit.

Unemployed for nearly 4 months now.

downsized in Feb, only working a few nights at a bar and then Army Reserves dates. Not even looking anymore, now that July will be mostly at one training event and sept in another, then October off to the sandbox. I guess I'm more on vacation right now, just was forced into it earlier than I would have planned.....

eating away at savings, and cashing in 401ks

Speaking from personal experience, prepare yourself for next Apr 15. I was floored by the amount of taxation incurred...

Been unemployed for almost 3 months now.

I'm not trying to be a dick, but the bolded parts read like they were taken from the script of 'observe and report.' sweet, seth rogan posts on the planet!

and, obviously, good luck, man. it's rough being jobless.

Unemployed 6 months. working part time moving back to KC.

Eat white beans off of cracked plates.

We have had major cutbacks with reduced hours (working 3 days a week), wages froze, salary people took a 10% cut, they stopped contributing to our 401K but so far we have kept the doors open which is more than alot of places can say. Kansas has a "work-share" program where we can still get unemployment benefits for the 2 days a week that we are off so it hasn't been too bad yet. The worst is yet to come for our company though...the next 3 months will be tough unless sales turn around quick.

Thinking ahead; I deploy overseas in October, this is a tax free year for me, so is 2010, even when cashing in a 401k, my income from my last job that downsized me in Feb, I'll get all that tax back too. For now, it's living the highlife, go where I want, do what I want, stay up late, sleep in late, drink, whatever. Going to Dallas this next week, the Lake for a few days on the way back.

By sandbox do you mean Iraq?
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I feel your guys' pain. Last year I was working at a discount broker and tried to file a harass complaint which made my manager and his manager look bad so they found a reason to say quit or be fired (it's not hard to get a reason when you are as micromanaged as call center employees are). Well, that was one of the perfectly wrong times to get fired/quit as financial services was laying off thousands of people. Fortunately I got lucky and found a laid back company that was less than 10 minutes from my house (old commute was an hour) and was only unemployed for 3 months.

Keep your heads up and walk into any interview you can get with the confidence that you will get that job.

Not to sound to "uppidy"... I was unemployed for all of 2 months.
Seems to me you guys need to get something under your belt and always think ahead and prepare for the unexpected.

Murphy is always there so I've always prepared as if he'll always be there.
FWIW: Learn some computer skills. I don't see how anyone that has computer skills can remain laid off. You might not make what you had but you'll always have a job.

I've taken a 46% pay cut accepting my current position. Starting next month it'll only be a 20% cut. and only a 10% paycut if I don't include my previous bonuses.

There is a light at the end of the tunnel so educate yourself and stop the pity party and think of ways to make your resume and self better by going back to school or something during your downtime.

Alot of companies in the midwest aren't doing as bad as you think and are finding out they can use the economy as an excuse to lay people off. Don't let them bullshit you. Companies that are doing well for themselves compared to the general economic climate can get away with layoffs and downsizing because of the attitude of the general public right now. If that happens to you, raise hell, and defile their public image as much as you can.

Lost my job last summer found a new one out of KC after 3 months of searching. I was at my same salary, but have since had to take a 10% pay cut.

Happy B-day!

I am trying to open a second Restaurant in Overland Park.

I will be hiring several managers and Chefs. It is a HUGE risk but what the hell. IF it all comes together-I might need someone to run the one in Independence.

yes

great advice! :clap:

I'm sure its' different in some areas, but most of the people I know who haven't been able to find a job for 6 months, haven't been looking very hard.


If nothing is happening, use the time to learn a skill or a trade. Keep looking, they're not going to call you out of the blue. Good luck.

Yeah but so many of them want you to go outside where it's hot.

Bumping this for OTW

I like white beans. I like mine with hot sauce.

Yeah, I saw the writing on the wall and got myself certified and job skills that would be needed in the furture by business's. A tried and true formula for any field if there ever was a template for this kind of thing.

Don't wait to get whacked, be pro active.

Was looking for the IT job thread - but found this one first. Don't know if any of the IT guys are in Colorado or not. Can go to www.kindermorgan.com to apply.

Network Control Technician

<TABLE cellSpacing=2 cellPadding=2 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview height=15>Job ID #: 1246 </TD><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview height=15>Location: CO-LAKEWOOD </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview height=15>Functional Area: Telecommunications </TD><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview height=15>Facility: LAKEWOOD </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview height=15>Position Type: Full Time </TD><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview height=15>Broad Band: </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview height=15>Experience Required: 1 - 3 Years </TD><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview height=15>Relocation Provided: No </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview colSpan=2 height=15>Education Required: High School Diploma </TD></TR><TR><TD class=pc-rtg-label-preview colSpan=2 height=15>RC/Department: 0084 -KMI - IT TELECOMMUNICATIONS :KMI </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<SCRIPT language=javascript> var form = document.jobDetails function availableLocalesChanged() { form.functionName.value = 'renderWithNewLocale' //alert(form.action + " " + form.functionName.value) form.submit() }</SCRIPT><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left> </TD><TD align=right> </TD></TR><TR><TD align=left height=20></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left width="100%" colSpan=2>Position Description

PRIMARY PURPOSE:
• For the Company’s nationwide telecommunications network, proactively monitor and maintain the network’s maximum availability and integrity at all times.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Monitor and maintain the integrity of Kinder Morgan’s telecommunication network (including, but not limited to, digital/analog microwave, frame, VSat, DSL, PL).
• Utilize software and hardware tools (including, but not limited to, HP-NNM, CW2K, Cisco, Juniper, NEC, Nortel, OSS and microwave EMS) to identify, diagnose and drive resolution of problems and factors affecting network integrity.
• On a regular basis, perform complex testing and analysis of all elements of the telecommunications network to include data, voice, video and SCADA.
• Apply problem solving skills and break down complex problems into solvable segments.
• Perform circuit provisioning duties in support of the network provisioning function, with duties to include, but not be limited to: placing orders, equipment configuration, circuit implementations, and circuit documentation.
• Regular and direct interface with customers, vendors, field technicians and network engineers (internal and external).
• Accurately and effectively document network troubles utilizing current problem resolution (ticketing) system.
• Ensure smooth transition of shift turnovers through verbal and written communication.
• Ensure ongoing improvement through evaluation of current processes.
• Maintain accurate and current contact information with supervisor and department members.
• Deal with a wide variety of people and personalities with tact, courtesy and professionalism.
• Speak clearly, both in-person and by telephone, using a high level of verbal skills, and listen carefully.
• Maintain a regular, dependable attendance, and high level of performance.
• Maintain a high regard for personal safety, the safety of Company assets and employees, and the general public.
• Will work non-traditional hours (shift rotation is required to maintain a 24x7x365 operation); shift change may occur with little advance notice.
• May be required to carry a company-provided cell phone/pager and be available to respond during working hours and occasionally during non-working hours.
• Other daily, weekly and monthly duties, and special projects as assigned.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed. This position may perform other duties as assigned.
Position Requirements

Position may be filled as Network Control Technician I or II, depending on qualifications, skill sets and experience of the successful candidate.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

EDUCATION:
• High school diploma or equivalent is required
• Associate or Bachelor degree in a telecommunications field is desirable

EXPERIENCE/SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE:
• Minimum 1 to 3 years direct work experience in network operations or telecommunications with proven troubleshooting skills in the area of telecommunications and data networks.
• Working knowledge of data, voice, video and SCADA network components.
• Proficient with OSS applications, and incident tracking systems.
• Proficient in Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) for the purpose of word processing, spreadsheets and information retrieval.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and a driving record satisfactory to the Company and its insurers.
• Must be able to perform all essential functions of the job.

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Ability to work with a team, take direction from supervisor(s), focus attention on details, follow work rules and adhere to work schedules.
• Strong analytical skills and logical thought processes, with ability to identify and resolve complex network problems.
• Ability to perform multiple tasks with strict, and often short, deadlines in a technologically diverse and fast-paced environment.
• Organize and prioritize daily work, and maintain strict confidentiality.
• Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to effectively communicate with individuals at all levels of the organization, as well as external customers.
• Possess a positive attitude and have ability to handle negative situations in a logical and professional manner.
• Adaptable to organizational change.
• Ability to identify expectations in an employee/employer relationship.
• Possess and utilize excellent customer relations skills.
• Highly self-motivated with ability to perform the required and expected duties with minimal supervision.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
• Overtime is required and anticipated.
• 24x7x365 operation; scheduled rotating shift work; shift change may occur with little advance notice.
• Secured, control center environment.
• Teamwork environment.
• Modern office location (Lakewood, CO).
• Less than 10% travel anticipated.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, ETC.:
• Understanding of gas pipeline monitoring helpful.
• Telecommunication or IP networking-oriented certification, or progress toward certification, desirable.
• Experience working in a 24x7x365 environment highly desirable.
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=300 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=10>https://careers.peopleclick.com/cont...s/arrow_up.gif</TD><TD> </TD><TD class=pc-rtg-instructions width=285>Back to top </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>