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Updated by: and
Published: Mar 06, 2024 17 min read

Best Job Search Sites Main Takeaways

We found that Indeed was best overall, ZipRecruiter was best for employers, and Linkedin was best for networking.

  • Job search engines are aggregators that compile hundreds of thousands of jobs from multiple job boards
  • Some job search sites let you not only upload your resume, but create a detailed profile
  • Many job search sites specialize in a particular industry or field
  • Personalize your resume to the job you're applying for
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If you’ve been on the market for a new gig in the past decade, you’ve likely poked around the many job search sites on the internet.

But which one is the best at finding the listing you’re looking for? Every industry is different when it comes to hiring practices, and depending on the job you want, some job search engines will deliver better results than others. Features like job alerts that notify you when there are new listings that match your search queries matter, too.

Based on our research into each platform’s search functions, app performance and features, and additional resources, we determined that Indeed was our pick for the best overall job search site.

However, that doesn’t mean it’s the best for every person’s needs. Read on to see our list of the best job search sites.

Our Top Picks for the Best Job Search Sites

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  • Set up job alerts
  • Filter listings by location, job type, benefits, etc.
  • Skill assessments to show your abilities

Indeed is one of the most popular job search sites in the world and our pick for Best Overall. It’s very simple to use, and users can filter job listings by salary, location, job type (contract, full-time or part-time, entry-level, remote, etc.) and more.

You can save jobs that interest you on Indeed through your account, set up job alerts, and upload your resume to apply more easily. Once you apply for a job through Indeed, those employers or recruiters can contact you through the site.

You can also take skill assessments on Indeed in a wide variety of fields, which are meant to show how proficient you are at certain activities. However, we found it’s quite easy to fool the system, so it may not accurately reflect your abilities.


  • Resume database available for employers
  • Reach a wider pool of applicants
  • Integration with popular ATS

ZipRecruiter stands out for its great features aimed at employers and recruiters. When employers post a job on ZipRecruiter, the listing is automatically shared to more than a hundred other sites. ZipRecruiter also features a resume database that allows employers to search for the right candidates.

ZipRecruiter integrates with popular applicant tracking systems, like Bullhorn and Greenhouse, so employers and recruiters can streamline their search. Users also have access to job post templates that take the guesswork out of hiring.


  • Social networking site with an integrated job board
  • Widely used by recruiters and hiring managers
  • LinkedIn Premium for Career starts at $29.99/month after a free trial

Working professionals already know about LinkedIn, a professional networking platform that allows users to create profiles and connect with co-workers, potential employers and others in their field. It’s essentially a large directory of professionals, which many companies and candidates use to find candidates and job opportunities.

Much like Indeed, LinkedIn’s job search engine allows users to save opportunities, set up job alerts and take skill assessments to signal their abilities to employers.

More features are available if you sign up for LinkedIn Premium, which lets you contact recruiters directly, see the jobs you have the best shot at, and practice with real interview questions to help you put your best foot forward. The career plan subscription for LinkedIn Premium starts at $29.99/month after the one-month trial or $239 annually.


  • Salary information and company reviews provided by employees
  • Large database of salary, benefits and other information

Glassdoor is a job search site that also allows employees to submit anonymous information about their employers, such as salary, benefits and company reviews, among other things. Being one of the first job search sites to start compiling this information, Glassdoor probably has one of the largest salary databases online, making it a must for job candidates researching prospective employers.

A word of caution, however: since Glassdoor’s company data is mostly user-submitted, it should always be taken with a grain of salt and in conjunction with other information. It’s not unheard of for people to badmouth their employer on Glassdoor, so candidates should make sure to weigh the opinions presented against more concrete facts.


  • Specializes in tech and startup jobs
  • One-click apply
  • Allows you to specify what you’re looking for

Wellfound focuses on startup and tech jobs, with a large and intuitive job board that allows job seekers to view detailed information about each job, including salary ranges and benefits.

Applying through the website is also easy since the site allows you to upload your resume and apply for jobs with one click. The platform also lets you track your job applications from within the site.

A Wellfound feature we like is the ability to customize your profile to specify details about the type of company you’re interested in, including company size, location and more. You can even provide information about the culture and work environment you’re seeking.


  • Official job board for the federal government
  • Set up job alerts for your desired position

If you’re interested in finding a public sector job in the federal government, USAJobs is the only job search site where official federal positions are posted. You can search by keyword, location or department/agency, create job alerts and save jobs, as well as track your applications on the site with a free account.

Keep in mind that some postings on USAJobs are for current federal employees only. Federal job postings are also strict in the resume format you must submit, so make sure to do your research before applying.

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More job search companies

Here are a few job search sites that are less popular than our top picks and offer fewer standout features. However, we believe they are still worth mentioning and considering.


SimplyHired

SimplyHired is an engine with millions of job postings from across the country. Users can build their resumes online using SimplyHired’s templates and then use that resume to apply for jobs on the platform with one click. The company also offers robust tools for human resources professionals and employers.


FlexJobs

FlexJob specializes in remote work, hybrid jobs and other flexible jobs. While work-from-home popularity has been increasing in recent years, working on-site is still a predominant mode of work. If you know you don’t want to work in an office, searching on FlexJobs can help you skip to the jobs that are compatible with your lifestyle.


The Muse

The Muse partners with employers to provide the most seamless job search process possible. The company profiles illustrate the company culture, benefits, interviews with current employees and other details that help applicants get to know the company. The site also features a job search engine.


Monster

Monster is one of the most popular online job search sites, and it features a clean and intuitive search engine with the ability to set up alerts for new open positions. The website also features career advice written by experts and lets you see the average salary for your position based on your location.


CareerBuilder

CareerBuilder is another excellent choice for job hunting. Like Monster, it features an easy-to-use search engine, a career advice blog and salary information. If you create an account and set up your resume, it will also notify you of recommended job opportunities for your skills and experience.


Job Search Sites Guide

There are two main types of job search websites: job boards and job search engines. It’s not easy telling one type apart from the other unless the job search site you’re visiting explicitly describes itself as either one.

Job Boards

Job boards are the pages where employers post job openings directly. It can be a part of the company website's career page, integrated with the HR department’s software or posted on a third-party site.

Job Search Engines

Job search engines, on the other hand, are aggregators that compile hundreds of thousands of jobs from multiple job boards, some that are automatically crawled from employer websites and others that are submitted for inclusion by hiring managers.

How to use the best job search sites

Job search sites usually operate in much the same way: they allow you, the user, to create an account so you can search for your desired job title and set up job alerts, which send you periodic notifications (daily or weekly, if you choose) when a new job that meets your parameters is posted.

Some job search sites allow you to upload your resume or create a detailed profile, which can then be used to apply for jobs more conveniently on the site.

However, caution should be used when applying for jobs with a boilerplate resume, since you could miss an excellent opportunity to make your resume stand out from the pool of applicants by inserting relevant keywords and highlighting your particular skills.

“As a former recruiter, I understood how important skills were on a resume. I would look at my hiring manager's open requisition and identify what buzzwords I could use on searches to help identify the right candidates in hopes one of them would fit into the opening,” says Matthew Warzel, certified professional resume writer (CPRW) and president of a career coaching and resume writing firm.

You should also consider whether to include a cover letter and other materials.

“In my experience, there is less than a 9% chance human eyes will land on your resume when you apply online. If you’re one of the lucky ones, your resume must keep the recruiter’s attention,” says Cara Heilmann, president of the International Association of Career Coaches (IACC) and executive career Coach at Ready Reset Go, Inc.

Some tips Heilmann recommends to job applicants include making sure your resume is free from typos and the format fits your job level, industry and location. For example, she says, “An individual contributor resume looks different from a people manager resume and an executive-level resume. If you’re not a new grad but [are] using the same resume format from graduation, it is time to level up.”

Here are more tips beyond resume creation to consider.

Top tips when using job search sites

Many experts recommend keeping your profiles up-to-date when using online job search outlets. Ensure your information is correct and you have an updated headshot, if applicable and especially if you haven’t used the platform in a while.

Doing research can also pay off. “Before applying, research potential employers to tailor your application and demonstrate genuine interest,” suggests Sneha Mandala, keynote speaker and advisor on work culture and peak performance.

It can be easy to get overwhelmed in your search. To help narrow down your results, Mandala and Warzel recommend utilizing search tools like filters and alerts. “Refine search results using filters such as location, experience level and job type to save time and focus on relevant opportunities,” says Mandala.

Once you apply online, your work doesn’t have to stop there. Consider reaching out to employees at the company. They may be able to put in a good word for you and help you get noticed.

Niche job sites

Another important feature of job search sites is that many specialize in a particular industry or field. Some fields tend towards using job sites that might not be widely known. Do your research and make sure you’re searching for opportunities where the best jobs are posted.

Some popular niche job boards are:

  • FlexJobs: remote, hybrid and flexible jobs

Other ways to search for jobs

Many people turn to top job search websites when looking for a new career move, but that’s not the only way to find great gigs. When on the job market, keep these additional job search methods in mind:

  • Utilize your network: Your new opportunity may be waiting for you among your network of professionals. Tap your network by setting up informational interviews with people in your industry to pick their brains about the work they do. This can help you hone in on your search and it may even produce job opportunities or referrals.
  • Attend career fairs: Career fairs are a great way to interact with companies face-to-face. They allow you to discover new companies, learn more and introduce yourself. They’re also a great networking opportunity to connect with other professionals. You can search for local job fairs online.
  • Reach out to companies directly: Do you have a list of companies you’d like to work for? If so, you can check the company’s website and LinkedIn page for potential openings. If there aren’t any openings, consider reaching out to inquire about any possibilities.
  • Use a recruiter: Staffing or recruitment agencies may be able to help you land your dream job. A recruiter will help you find the right job opportunities. However, do your research before choosing a staffing agency. Select one that is reputable and familiar with your industry.
  • Consult a career coach: While a career counselor or coach may not be able to find you a job, they can help you create a plan. However, you must use caution when choosing one. Daniel Space, HR leader and content creator (DanFromHR), warns that some career coaches or resume writers may not give the best advice since they’re not the ones making actual hiring decisions, though they usually mean well. “Before taking any advice, and triple [check] before paying for it, validate they have the experience in hiring that gives them credibility to do this,” says Space.

Best Job Search Sites FAQs

What is the best job search site?

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The best job search site for most people is probably Indeed, which is very easy to use, lets you set up job alerts and features recently posted jobs from every industry and city. Another excellent choice is ZipRecruiter, which has a comprehensive job search engine, as well as desirable features for employers.

What is the best job site for employers?

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The best job site for employers is the site that allows them to find and recruit the best candidates. To do so, a job site must have powerful search filters in place to hone in on the most desirable candidates. It should also have some of the features of an applicant tracking system (ATS), which allows hiring managers and recruiters to effectively track which applicants should move on to the next step.

While most employers will gravitate towards free job posting websites, it can be worth it to invest in a premium plan that includes most or all of these features.

A good job search site for employers must also be able to reach the largest possible pool of applicants. ZipRecruiter is one company with these features. You can read our review of ZipRecruiter here.

What are the 3 most effective job search strategies?

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The three most effective job search strategies are:

Tracking your applications: If you're applying to multiple positions or companies, it's a good idea to keep track of all your applications. Make a note of when you applied and which documents you included and always update your list when you move forward a step in the process.

Optimizing your resume for every application: Using the same resume for every job application is a very common mistake. Always optimize the content of your resume to highlight the features the employer wants to see. Include keywords from the job posting where relevant to emphasize that you can offer what they need.

Having a separate email address for job searching: Separating your job search emails from your personal emails and junk mail can help keep your search organized and reduce the likelihood that you'll miss an important email from an employer or recruiter.

Are job boards worth it? 

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Searching and applying for jobs online is currently the most effective way to get hired, especially if you work in media or tech-related industries.

While you could simply search for a job and apply on your own, there are also upsides to creating an account on the job board of your choice. Depending on which site you choose, you could create job alerts so you're notified whenever jobs with certain keywords are posted and track your applications so you are always aware of their status.

Methodology

We evaluated dozens of top online job search platforms for U.S. job seekers and, from there, narrowed down our list to the six best job search sites. These sites were separated into categories to distinguish what's most useful about each, such as specific industry coverage or employee reviews and pay transparency.

Some general pros we looked for include a user-friendly search function, easy application functionality and job alert options. Resources such as resume help and career advancement courses were also considered in our vetting process.

Summary of the Best Job Search Sites