Local employers can hire Knox County youth at no cost to their company and youth can be introduced to career fields through a program with Opportunity Knox. Opportunity Knox, the county employment center, launched a youth paid work experience program in early October, through which the wages of youth who participate are paid fully by OhioMeansJobs. Opportunity Knox arranges job placements for 12 weeks, with the option to extend for an additional eight weeks, for up to 32 hours per week. Once placements conclude, employers can offer participants a permanent position, although receiving a permanent offer is not guaranteed. Those who participate in the program also receive soft skills training and mentoring from an employment services counselor, who can help navigate issues like tardiness, miscommunication, etc., and thus prevent firings and quits.