Live and Work Local in Riley County, Kansas
Total Incentive
$5,000
Description
From Roots to Opportunity: Build Your Future in Riley County
Ready to build your future in a place that feels like home?
Riley County is hiring — and we’re excited to welcome you to a community where career growth, connection, and quality of life come together. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to take the next step, you’ll find opportunity and belonging right here in Riley County.
Say hello to Allison, your Riley County connection! She’s passionate about helping others discover what makes Riley County such a wonderful place to live and work—and she’s here to make you feel right at home from day one.
Why Work in Riley County?
Riley County offers the perfect blend of opportunity, community, and adventure — where your career can grow and your quality of life flourishes. Here’s what you’ll find:
💼 Diverse Career Opportunities across education, healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and technology — with employers who value innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance.
🏡 Affordable Living with welcoming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and convenient access to all the amenities of nearby Manhattan, KS — including shopping, dining, and entertainment.
🌳 Outdoor Adventures — Enjoy the scenic beauty of Tuttle Creek Lake, explore miles of trails, or spend your weekends kayaking, hiking, and camping surrounded by Kansas’ natural beauty.
☕ A Connected Community — From farmers markets and local festivals to vibrant arts, music, and university events, Riley County offers plenty of ways to connect and feel at home.
Your Welcome Package
Get ready to feel at home in Riley County! We are putting together a package that makes your move not just easier—but way more exciting:
💰 $5,000 Cash for Relocation – start your next chapter with a little extra boost.
🎁 More Incentives coming soon
Opportunity Across Industries
Riley County offers career paths in several key and growing sectors:
🎓 Education & Research – Anchored by Kansas State University, the county is rich in teaching, campus operations, research, technology commercialization, and student-support roles. The university is one of the region’s largest employers and drives innovation, making this sector accessible and dynamic.
🛡️ Defense, Logistics & Military Support – With Fort Riley in the region, Riley County has significant opportunities tied to military support, logistics, civilian roles, supply-chain operations, transportation, and infrastructure. The presence of the base plus associated civilian workforce makes this a stable and growth-oriented sector.
⚕️ Healthcare & Wellness Services – The region’s population growth, educational institutions, and military presence drive demand for healthcare facilities, clinics, allied health professionals, administrative support, and wellness services. Working in this sector means meaningful impact and strong career prospects.
🏭 Manufacturing & Skilled Trades – Manufacturing remains key in Riley County, with companies such as Caterpillar Work Tools and others employing hundreds and offering roles in production, maintenance, welding, assembly, and process engineering.
🌾 Agriculture, Agribusiness & Bio-Industry – The county’s location in Kansas means agriculture and related industries still play a meaningful role: from crop and livestock production to agribusiness services, bio-industry research (linked to the university/research side) and value-chain roles. This sector offers entry points that build into steady careers.
Whether you’re entering the workforce, reskilling, or ready to advance — Riley County offers a balanced mix of employers and industries — and a community that’s ready to help you thrive.
Dive into opportunities in Riley County, Kansas
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 Local Opportunities – Browse current openings through Riley County’s trusted job search resources and local employment sites.
📄 Apply & Connect – Reach out to employers who are actively hiring and eager to welcome new talent to the community.
🚚 Relocate with Support – Make your move with confidence — Riley County’s welcoming community is ready to help you settle in and thrive.
Riley County: Where Careers and Community Meet
This is more than just a new job — it’s your opportunity to build a life in a place that values connection, innovation, and a genuine sense of belonging.
You’re Not on Your Own
Relocating is a major step — but you won’t do it alone. Riley County offers relocation support, access to employers, and introductions to local networks and community leaders who want you to succeed. Start the process today and make the move with confidence.
This program is sponsored by Riley County and The State of Kansas.
Riley County, Kansas is currently recruiting job-seekers who:
Are 18 years or older
Currently reside outside of Kansas
Must commit to living in Riley County for at least 1 year
Will secure full-time employment in Riley County, Kansas
Will have an annual household income of at least $55,000
Will provide employment and residency documentation to confirm eligibility
Remote workers, gig workers and self-employed workers are not eligible
Wait just a second while we retrieve your eligibility status for this program.
FAQ
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.