Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development – Boston, MA

Connecting Workers and Employers

The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) operates key administrative functions at 399 Washington Street in Downtown Boston. This secretariat is the backbone of the state’s efforts to ensure a skilled workforce and fair labor practices. While the building houses the Department of Career Services (DCS), which oversees the statewide network of MassHire Career Centers, it serves as a strategic hub for workforce policy rather than a direct walk-in unemployment office. The agency’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for Massachusetts residents by supporting job growth, safety, and economic stability 📈.

Departments and Services

• Department of Career Services: Manages the MassHire brand, connecting job seekers with training programs and employers with skilled talent. They administer federal employment and training funds.
• Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA): While this specific location is primarily administrative, the EOLWD oversees the DUA, which provides temporary income support to eligible unemployed workers. (Note: In-person DUA services are typically handled at dedicated Walk-In Centers, not administrative HQs).
• Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML): Oversees the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program, ensuring workers can take paid time off for health or family reasons 🏥.
• Department of Labor Standards: Promotes safety and health in the workplace through training, consultation, and licensing of specific professions.

Access to Resources

Most services provided by the EOLWD, such as filing for unemployment or paid leave, are designed to be accessed online through the Mass.gov portals. For job seekers, the MassHire JobQuest system is the primary digital tool. Visitors to 399 Washington Street are usually there for scheduled administrative meetings, hearings, or specific program coordination rather than general public inquiries, which are best directed to the call centers or local MassHire centers. The location is easily accessible via public transit, situated near Downtown Crossing.