Looking for Work Experience?
You're in the right spot! We offer individualized Job Training and Job Placement for adults with intellectual and developmental differences.
From application to a real job.
Apply Online
Complete one application for both tracks. We follow up within 2 business days.
Meet the Team
Learn about our training program while we learn about your dreams, strengths, and goals through a meet-and-greet with staff.
Begin Training
Discover your unique skills through an unpaid job sampling phase and then move into paid training.
3-Month Assessment
Identify skills, growth areas, and potential job paths.
Job Search
Work with our staff to find a job in the community that fits your skills and interests while training continues.
Graduate & Job Placement
Celebrate the work you've done and start your new job in the community with scaffolded support from coaches.
Same intentional training. Two different pathways.
Retail Training
Individualized training at ZABS Place thrift boutique — a wide variety of roles, matched to each trainee's interests and talents.
Training Opportunities:
- Customer service & fitting room support
- Sorting, organizing & stocking inventory
- Hanging & steaming clothing
- Writing descriptions, photography & online sales
- Electronics testing
- Order fulfillment & warehouse work
Food Service Training
Hands-on barista training at Cakeable Cafe — a focused internship rooted in drink making, register, and cleaning.
What you'll train in
- Running the register
- Espresso, drinks & barista skills
- Prepping ingredients & basic food handling
- Restocking & cleaning the cafe
- Customer service in a fast-paced setting
- Collaborating with a team
Who's a good fit?
We generally look for applicants who meet the criteria below. Admission is always at the discretion of the intake team and may vary by track.
Skills
- Can complete a task (EX: folding a towel or wiping a table)
- Understands and follows verbal/written/demonstrated directions
- Can communicate basic needs (bathroom, hunger, pain, or needing help in an emergency)
Attitude
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- Is willing to learn and wants to work
- Is able to be redirected when off-task or upset
- Treats others with kindness and respect
Ready to apply?
It's one application for both tracks. You'll choose ZABS Place or Cakeable inside the form — or tell us you'd like help deciding. We reply within 2 business days.
Start your application Takes about 10–15 minutes. You can save and come back later.Good to know before you apply.
Do I have to choose a track before I apply?
No. The application asks you to pick your preferred track, but you can also tell us you're unsure. We'll talk through both options with you at the Meet & Greet.
When do I start getting paid?
All interns go through a period of unpaid job sampling. The length of the unpaid sampling depends on the track.
How long does the program last?
The internship length lasts between 3–6 months, depending on each individual's progress and the availability of an open job placement.
What kinds of jobs do graduates go into?
Our graduates move into all kinds of jobs because we train all kinds of talent! We have placed graduates in coffee shops, toy stores, childcare centers, gyms, restaurants, schools, roasteries, spas, clothing stores, grocery stores, plant stores, warehouses, retirement communities, hotels, and more!
Is there a waitlist?
Yes, especially at Cakeable, where openings typically run 6–24 months. If we can't bring you in right away, we'll share volunteer opportunities, socials, and workshops to stay involved in the meantime.
I need help filling out the form. Who do I contact?
Email amanda@zabsplace.org and we'll be happy to help with reasonable accommodations.