Live and Work Local in Ottawa County
AT A GLANCE
Application
QuickApply: Hear back in 1 business day
Package Highlights
Cash, Memberships & Community, Welcome Gifts & Local Perks
Ideal for
Jobseekers ready for a fresh start
Value
Up to $10,600 across 13 benefits
Live and Work Local in Ottawa County
AT A GLANCE
Application
QuickApply: Hear back in 1 business day
Package Highlights
Cash, Memberships & Community, Welcome Gifts & Local Perks
Ideal for
Jobseekers ready for a fresh start
Value
Up to $10,600 across 13 benefits
What’s Included - Up to $10,600 in Value
Explore the incentives and perks included in this program.
Money & Financial Support
$10,000 cash for relocation
Welcome Gifts & Local Perks
5 lbs. of locally raised bison meat from local farm
Welcome basket with tumblers, t-shirts, and more from Bennington State Bank
$50 in Choose Ottawa County cards to spend at local businesses
Fresh seasonal treats (muffins or cinnamon rolls) from Treats Bakery
Local business gift cards provided by Citizens State Bank and Trust Co.
Memberships & Community
Experiences & Attractions
Free athletics pass for one school year from USD 239 or USD 240
Housing & Property
$10,600Program Value
13 Benefits • Cash Included
Get pre-approved in one business day with Quick Apply.
Am I eligible?
Ottawa County, Kansas is currently recruiting job-seekers who:
Make at least $20,000 in their current employment and will secure new full-time employment earning at least $55,000 annually in Ottawa County, KS for the entirety of the program term
Are 18 years or older
Currently reside outside the State of Kansas
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.
Wait just a second while we retrieve your eligibility status for this program.
Meet the Program Manager
Katie is 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.
Ottawa County Program Photo Gallery
Take a closer look at everything this program has to offer, from the location to the benefits to the neighbors.
Living in Ottawa County
Learn about where you could live, before you get there. The below Places are eligible relocation destinations for this Program.
We’ve helped 4,000+ people move since 2021.
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.
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.
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.
Program Sponsors
This program is sponsored by Choose Ottawa County and The State of Kansas.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Discover Places and Vibes
Get a feel for different cities and towns through the eyes of locals. Insider stories, photos, and Q&A help you connect
Find Your Program & Apply
Browse relocation programs designed to warmly welcome new residents. With QuickApply, you can connect with a program in just minutes.
Track Your Progress
Once you’ve applied, we work alongside your local program team to help you secure your spot, find a home, and settle into your new community.
Stay in the loop
We'll notify you with any updates on this program.