Offical ChiefsPlanet Unemployment thread!!

[KcFanInGA]

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!

[Iowanian]

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.

[Skip Towne]

Originally Posted by Iowanian

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.

[Skip Towne]

Bumping this for OTW

[RJ]

Originally Posted by Skip Towne

Eat white beans off of cracked plates.

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

[BigRedChief]

Originally Posted by wutamess

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.

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.

[1ChiefsDan]

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

Job ID #: 1246	Location: CO-LAKEWOOD
Functional Area: Telecommunications	Facility: LAKEWOOD
Position Type: Full Time	Broad Band:
Experience Required: 1 - 3 Years	Relocation Provided: No
Education Required: High School Diploma
RC/Department: 0084 -KMI - IT TELECOMMUNICATIONS :KMI

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. Back to top