Cult of Mac reports that, given the high unemployment rate in the US, an application like JobCompass can come in handy, now more than ever. Of course, those who can afford an iPhone (as well as visiting the App Store to buy apps) are most likely already employed, or at least have it going for them one way or another.

Nevertheless, JobCompass truly sounds like a great piece of software for your iPhone and iPod touch. Let's look at it this way: you've worked for a hot shot company that, due to the financial downturn, was forced to let you go. However, during your stay with the company, you were able to buy yourself a nice Apple iPhone and, just before getting laid off, also browsed the App Store and ended up downloading JobCompass. Now's the time to fire it up!

From the iTunes App Store, the app's official description goes,

Have you ever wondered what jobs are available in your area? Ever been on a trip, or in a city you love and wondered if you could find work and live there? JobCompass is the only application on the iPhone that searches millions of jobs, locating and plotting them on a map showing you exactly where the jobs are in relation to your current position.

That's right, according to the above-mentioned source, tests ran on the app for writer/editor positions on a 10 miles radius returned five open positions. Finding a job with JobCompass is simple, according to its makers. After specifying the distance in miles you want (5, 10, 25, 50 or 100 mile radius) the app to search open spots for you, you enter a query and let the app do the rest. When you see a job that you are interested in, you can either email it to yourself, or to a friend, and even apply online.

According to those who've tried it out, the app asks permission to use your location as a base from which to perform a job search, after which a Google map appears pinning itself to your location. Almost any search terms go, the report suggests. JobCompass requires iPhone OS 2.1.

Download JobCompass via iTunes App Store