Live and Work Local in Ottawa County
Total Incentive
$8,100
Description
From Prairie to Prosperity: Choose Ottawa County (In-Person Jobs)
Ready to grow your career in a place that feels like home?
Ottawa County is hiring—and we’re ready to welcome you into a community that values both work and life.
Meet Katie, a resident in Ottawa County, and your new local connection! Her optimism and dedication make her a great neighbor—and a great resource—as you consider making Ottawa County your new home.
Why Work in Ottawa County?
Ottawa County blends career opportunity with community connection. Here’s what you’ll find:
💼 Opportunities across education, healthcare, local services, and small business
🏠 Affordable housing close to schools, healthcare, and recreation
🌳 Outdoor escapes at Ottawa County Lake for fishing, camping, and family gatherings
🪨 Unique attractions like Rock City and social spaces like The FARM, our community hub with a brewery, coffee shop, game room, and more
Opportunity Across Industries
Ottawa’s economy reflects both its manufacturing roots and its evolution into a workplace hub for multiple growth sectors:
- Advanced Manufacturing & Industrial Production: Ottawa hosts major production operations with roles in assembly, machine operation, maintenance, and quality assurance. With companies hiring for machine operators, fitters/welders, and production technicians, the manufacturing foundation remains strong.
- Logistics, Distribution & Warehousing: Thanks to its strategic location and industry network, Ottawa is a hub for warehouse, distribution, freight, and material-handling jobs. Opportunities in warehouse associates, forklift operators, and shipping/receiving offer entry and advancement pathways.
- Healthcare & Medical Services: Healthcare continues to be a major employment sector in the region. Facilities like AdventHealth Ottawa anchor medical care with roles in nursing, allied health, support services, and administration.
- Food Processing & Value-Added Manufacturing: Complementing the industrial base, Ottawa supports food-processing and packaging roles—particularly for operations that combine production, logistics, and quality control.
- Education, Public Service & Government Institutions: Public institutions, K-12 systems, and higher-education providers serve as stable employment anchors. From teaching and student support to campus operations and public-sector roles, these careers contribute to Ottawa’s workforce ecosystem.
Dive into opportunities in Ottawa County, KS
We know searching for a job can be intimidating and overwhelming. We've created an Employment Guide to help. Explore our recommended job board, industries, employers, and training opportunities in the area.
How It Works
🔎 Explore Jobs – Browse current openings on the Ottawa County job board
📄 Apply & Connect – Get matched with employers who are ready to hire
🚚 Relocate with Support – Join a community that’s excited to welcome you
Your Welcome Package
When you relocate to Ottawa County through MakeMyMove, you’ll receive a generous welcome package that includes items that will connect you into the community, have fun, and help your relocation go a little bit smoother! See above for a list of incentives 🌟
Ottawa County: Where Careers and Community Meet
This is more than a new job—it’s a chance to build your life in a community that values connection, adventure, and belonging.
You’re Not on Your Own
Relocating is a big decision, but you won’t do it alone. Southwest Michigan has active economic development groups and employer networks that help newcomers find jobs, settle in, and plug into the community. Apply today to begin your move.
This program is sponsored by Choose Ottawa County and The State of Kansas.
Eligible Places
Ottawa County, Kansas is currently recruiting job-seekers who:
Are 18 years or older
Currently reside outside the State of Kansas
Will have an annual household income of at least $55,000
Must commit to living in Ottawa County for at least 1 year
Remote workers, gig workers and self-employed workers are not eligible
Will provide employment and residency documentation to confirm eligibility
Will Secure Full Time Employment in Ottawa County, KS
Wait just a second while we retrieve your eligibility status for this program.
FAQ
What is MakeMyMove?
MakeMyMove is the first-ever marketplace connecting movers with relocation programs, provided by communities across the country actively recruiting new residents. We help you find the right place and get there, and we help communities grow through talent attraction.
What does “Apply Now” mean?
“Apply Now” indicates that the community is working with MakeMyMove. You can apply on our site, and our team will help you navigate the application and move process.
How much does it cost?
We’re 100% supported by communities. Thanks to their investments, our service is free to folks like you who are thinking about making a move.
Other Details
Program Categories
How It Works
This community is participating in the MakeMyMove on-platform application process. Apply in a few minutes. You’ll receive a response to your application, and will have access to a team to help along the way.
1. Apply
Fill out our fast application form to share your information and why you’re interested in making a move.
2. Get Pre-Approved
Qualifying applicants will receive an introduction to the local sponsors of the program who will answer your questions, and help you decide if the community is the right fit.
3. Confirm Eligibility
Once you’ve been selected, we’ll confirm your eligibility for the program and facilitate a formal offer from the community.
4. Accept and Make Your Move
Accept your offer to reserve your spot in the program, and let us know when you arrive to receive the incentive.