Discover What’s Possible – Get Paid to Explore Careers in Maine
Not sure what kind of job you want? You’re not alone—and that’s exactly why the Maine Career Exploration Program exists. Most people try out a bunch of different jobs before they find the one that really clicks—and that’s totally normal. Sometimes we dream about studying for a certain career, only to find out those jobs are hard to come by or not even available where we live. This program gives you a chance to explore what’s right here in Maine—real jobs, real people, and real opportunities—so you can start your own #hometownhustle and build a future that actually fits your life.
What is it?
It’s a paid, hands-on work experience for Maine youth (ages 16–24) that lets you explore different career paths while earning money.
We are working with local employers that are interested in showing you what they do, right in your own backyard. You’ll spend time in real workplaces, meet mentors, learn new skills, and get a taste of what different jobs are really like and get some insight on what captures your interest that you may have not considered!
Who can sign up?
Good news! Anyone living in Maine that is ages 16-24 and interested in temporary career exploration is eligible to participate in this program. Each participant can get paid to work up to 75 hours under the program.
More Information About the Program
Maine is full of career opportunities—you just have to be open to exploring them. Whether you’re interested in hands-on work like manufacturing or agriculture, passionate about helping others in childcare or healthcare, or drawn to business services, hospitality, or the trades, there’s something for everyone. Every job is a chance to learn something new. Take a look around your community—you might be surprised at the variety of local businesses and the paths they can open for you.
Opportunities Available:
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Job Shadows – Time spent following someone at their job to see what it’s like.
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Internships – Short-term, guided work experiences where you can gain experience in a specific industry or role.
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Mentorships – A strategic relationship with someone that has experience in a specific field that gives you advice, support, and guidance.
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Apprenticeships – Work in support of someone in a specific role often in a trade or other specialized position.
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Community Service – Spending your time helping in your community through non-profits or municipalities
- Work-based Learning – Any learning that happens through real work experiences and on-the-job training.
Why join?
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Get Paid – Earn money while you learn, up to 75 hours.
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Explore Careers – Try out different industries to see what clicks.
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Boost Your Skills – Build real-world experience and confidence.
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Make Connections – Meet professionals and mentors who can help guide your future.
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Keep Your Options Open – Whether college, trades, or straight into work—you’ll be more prepared for what’s next.
- Great Resume Builder – Having a program like this on your resume or college application is a terrific differentiator.
“I really appreciated the opportunity. I helped me figure out what I wanted to do, and what I don’t want to do!”
MS, Age 19, Aroostook County
Who To Contact With Questions
If you have questions regarding the employment packet paperwork please reach out to:
Briana Lagasse
Frequently Asked Questions
It is our focus and responsibility to place student associates in safe and approved work experiences. There are certain industries or jobs that we have determined to be prohibited due to safety, risk assessment and/or insurance liability reasons.
This list is not all-inclusive, and Manpower reserves the right to decline a work experience based on our assessment. Please note that all work experiences must be approved prior to the student starting.
Each participant in the program is allowed to be paid for up to 75 hours of qualified work experiences. Each hour would be paid the legal minimum wage.
All participants must complete the employment packet and have their assignment approved by a Manpower representative prior to beginning work.
Work schedules will differ between assignments and will be something that the host worksite & Manpower will work with you to figure out. If under the age of 18, all Maine laws regarding youth employment scheduling will be followed.
The length of the work experience will differ between assignments. What is most important to remember is that you can only be paid for up to 75 hours through this program. You do not need to complete a full 75 hours, nor do all 75 hours need to be completed at the same host site.
The process will be event quicker! Just let us know the details and we will coordinate directly with you and the organization to set up your experience.
