(Posted 2026 January)
The Fairfax County Department of Family Services (DFS) serves as a central hub for workforce development, dedicated to helping residents achieve economic mobility. We bridge the gap between motivated jobseekers and local businesses in need of talent.
In today's shifting labor market, simply finding a job isn't always enough. That is why DFS offers a comprehensive, holistic framework designed to move families from "surviving to thriving." Whether you are a job seeker looking to advance your career or an employer looking for skilled employees, we are here to support your journey.
For Jobseekers: A Holistic Approach to Success
We provide a wide array of services to Fairfax County residents through our Workforce Centers in Annandale, Alexandria, Reston, and Fairfax. These centers offer virtual or in-person Career Services at no cost, including:
- One-on-One Coaching: Work directly with certified professionals to explore career paths, develop networking strategies, and set "SMART" goals.
- Job Readiness Tools: Access workshops on resume writing and cover letter drafting, and participate in practice interview sessions with constructive feedback.
- Technology Access: Utilize on-site computers, internet access, phones, and copiers dedicated to your employment search.
We recognize that many residents face obstacles beyond just finding a job listing. Our holistic coaching model addresses barriers such as limited English proficiency, digital literacy gaps, and the need for affordable childcare. We also offer specialized programs for specific groups:
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) provides free income tax preparation for households that made less than $69,000 in 2025. VITA helps individuals and families maximize their tax returns, increasing the benefit to the household and the local economy. VITA services are available at four sites in Fairfax County from January 29 until April 15.
- Young Adults, ages 17-24: The WIOA Youth and Educating Youth through Employment (EYE) programs provide opportunities for youth to get training and hands-on work experience. They build workplace skills and benefit from career mentorship.
- SNAP Employment and Training: Participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have access to employment and training resources to support their economic mobility and improving their career prospects.
For Businesses: Strategic Talent Solutions
DFS is a vital partner for employers in Fairfax County. We help businesses of all sizes navigate the hiring landscape by connecting them directly with hundreds of qualified local candidates through hiring events and job fairs. Beyond recruitment, we assist employers by:
- Skilling Up the Workforce: Helping you upgrade the skills of your existing employees so your business remains competitive.
- Work-Based Learning: Facilitating opportunities to take on talent through subsidized employment and tax credit programs.
- Talent Acquisition Support: helping you attract, onboard, and retain new talent effectively, even as hiring requirements evolve.
The scale of this effort is massive; in 2025, Fairfax County employment centers assisted nearly 12,000 residents. Specialized programs like WIOA can additionally provide individualized services and supports for unemployed and underemployed adults, laid-off workers and youth.
Services for Federal Workers and Contractors
DFS remains agile in the face of local economic shifts. When events like federal layoffs occur, we respond with specialized resource toolkits, virtual information sessions, and transition webinars to help displaced workers pivot their careers.
Residents impacted by recent federal workforce reductions can tap into specialized resources and events designed to support their next steps. In 2025, more than 2,500 impacted individuals engaged through employment centers, job fairs, and virtual sessions. Looking ahead, February brings a full slate of opportunities—including the Future Forward: Federal Talent Transition Career Fair and a new webinar series, Redefine Your Path – From Federal Expertise to Local Impact.
Subscribe to Career Resources, a weekly newsletter for upcoming job fairs and events, trending job leads, and information about workforce development programs.
If you or someone you know is looking for a leg up, visit the DFS Workforce Development website or email DFSWorkforceDevelopment@fairfaxcounty.gov. Think of our workforce programs like a well-stocked toolbox: you don’t have to build your career path alone; we have the specialized tools and the experts to help you sharpen your skills and reach your goals.
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