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State Plan AR FY26 - Original Submission Page of 60 112 NON-EDUCATION, NON-WORK COMPONENT: SUPERVISED JOB SEARCH Provide a summary of the State guidelines implementing supervised job search. Supervised Job Search (SJS) Guidelines – Arkansas SNAP E&T The State of Arkansas implements Supervised Job Search (SJS) as a structured component of the SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) program designed to assist participants in actively seeking and securing unsubsidized employment. Key Guidelines: State-Approved Locations: SJS activities take place at provider-designated sites such as adult education centers, workforce agencies, community-based organizations, or other approved facilities where participant job search activities can be directly supervised by trained staff. Providers ensure that these locations are accessible and conducive to effective job search efforts. Participant Activities and Tracking: Participants engage in organized job search efforts, including contacting employers, completing applications, attending interviews, and networking. Participant activities and timing—such as the number of contacts per day or week—are documented and regularly reviewed. Providers maintain attendance logs, job contact records, and progress notes to verify participation and compliance with program requirements. Level of Effort: Although federal regulations (7 CFR § 273.7(e)(2)(i)) do not establish a time limit for SJS participation, Arkansas typically expects participants to commit approximately 10 to 15 hours per week to supervised job search activities. The duration is tailored to individual participant needs, allowing sufficient engagement without imposing unnecessary barriers. Support and Coaching: Providers offer ongoing job search coaching, resume and interview preparation, and troubleshooting support to help participants overcome barriers and enhance their job search effectiveness. Duration: Arkansas allows flexibility in the length of SJS participation, with some participants engaging for several weeks depending on their progress and needs. Typical engagement is at a minimum of 30 days with a normal maximum of 90 days. Exemptions and Good Cause: Good cause exemptions from SJS are determined by eligibility staff based on documented barriers such as illness or transportation issues. Granting of good cause is strictly an eligibility function and cannot be granted by E&T staff. Integration with Other E&T Services: SJS activities are coordinated with other SNAP E&T components such as job readiness training, job placement services, and work experience opportunities to provide a comprehensive support system for participants. Reimbursement: SNAP E&T providers may offer supervised job search; however, reimbursement is limited to the salary and fringe benefits of staff performing the supervised job search function and is not provided on a per