ALT-2 Where to Find Jobs that are Hiring now
The only way you are going to find a job with your set of skills in mind is to go where the skills are used and make relationships. Rather than wait for an interview or even an opening why not go to a temp-service and try to acquire part-time work in your field. Doing this will benefit you in several ways and you will get paid for it, perhaps not what you feel you are worth but anytime I can learn something while someone else pays me I call it a good thing.
Networking:
By working as a temp-employee you will make contacts and leave impressions as you go from company to company. Employers know what they like and remember people who stand out and for whatever non-performance reason weren't incorporated into the team. When they have an opening your impression on them and your networking skills will be all that you need to have a shot at the position perhaps before it is advertised.
Local References:
If relocating has caused you to be in the job hunting market again one of the things temp-employees can garnish is relationships i.e. references locally regarding their skills where otherwise all the references are out of town. These references can be personal as to work ethic and involve people you worked along side not just supervisors and managers.
Learning the market and the players:
If you work for a company engaged in your field of expertise you will learn by listening what companies the company is competing with. Which companies are the strongest. Which companies the employees of the company you are working for wished they could work for. You might get an overall knowledge as to why this company has this percentage of the business while this other company has some other percentage; having management knowledge doesn't preclude you from being an employee, but you will stand out. You will also learn who is at the bottom of the pecking order. Perhaps the bottom company needs your skills to turn things around?
Learning the quality of work in that market:
You might come from New York with all of its talent competing and the quality is or should be high. You may be coming from a small community and find that the larger one has a anti-up that you are going to have to make or break. You could be pleasantly surprised no matter where you are from or going to if the local talent isn't much of a threat to you. But any and all of this has to be seen to be learned and a temp-service is the easiest way in.
