City of Utica Winter Youth Employment Opportunities 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 22, 2025

Utica, NY — The City of Utica, in partnership with Herkimer, Madison, Oneida Workforce Development Board, is once again offering paid job opportunities for local youth. This initiative is designed to provide meaningful work experiences that not only benefit our community, but also help young people build valuable skills for their future.

Youth between the ages of 14 and 20 are encouraged to apply for positions available at the Utica Recreation Center, Val Bialas, and the Utica Municipal Ice Rink. Each employee will be able to work up to 200 hours over the winter season at a pay rate of $15.50 per hour.

As we continue to strengthen our offerings at the Recreation Center, Val Bialas, and Ice Rink to provide for our community, we are grateful for the opportunity to go a step further in providing for our youth with meaningful and accessible work experiences.

Mayor Michael P. Galime stated, “Working Solutions and the Workforce Development board have become an integral part of staffing in Utica.  The engagement we receive from the resultant employees, and shared vision for youth employment as a path to lifelong success is incredible.”

Program Coordinator Zuleyka Febo stated “Running this state-funded program over the past three (3) years has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career. I've watched our returning youth grow in ways that go far beyond job skills, they’ve gained confidence, purpose, and leadership that ripple out into their families, schools, and the entire Oneida County community. Seeing that transformation has been truly inspiring.”

In addition, if you are a workplace that could benefit from hiring youth employees, please contact Zuleyka Febo at Working Solutions (315)207-6951 ext. 144 or zfebo@working-solutions.org for opportunities to participate in the program.

The City of Utica remains committed to creating pathways for youth success, while strengthening the workforce and enhancing public services across the community.