Working two jobs isn't easy, but more than seven million Americans do it.

A third say they took on a second job to earn extra money above and beyond basic needs, according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics survey. And 30% say they did it to meet expenses or pay off debt. The rest cite other reasons such as getting experience in a new field or seeking enjoyment.

Multiple jobs bring multiple responsibilities: two bosses, two sets of colleagues, two schedules. What's the best way to juggle it all?

Helpful Resource

Local job centers are an often overlooked resource to help workers, including those with two jobs, cope with the associated complexities. So-called one-stop centers, funded by the federal government, are available in all 50 states.

"People think are they are only for the unemployed, or to receive unemployment benefits," says Kay Brawley, president of the National Employment Counseling Association. "There are skilled professionals who want to work with all types of audiences." And best of all, they're free of charge.

One-stop centers provide advice on dealing with troubled bosses, finding child care and taking care of transportation needs. They also counsel on how to organize your life better when working two jobs or how to find the right second job.

To find a local job center, call 877-872-5627 or visit servicelocator.org.

"It takes a great deal of communication with two employers to make sure schedules don't conflict," says Wendy Stubbs, a career counselor in Vermillion, S.D.

She suggests focusing on how you use your time. Try a planner system, either electronic or on paper, to keep track of work and family obligations.

Sit down on Sunday nights with the family to map out the week. Figure out who's going to pick up the kids and plan the week's meals.

Possible Conflict

A major dilemma of holding two jobs is whether to tell them about each other. The best thing, says Ms. Stubbs, is to be open. "It can provide more conflict if you're not."

Tensions can arise in a couple of areas. Many employers, such as government agencies and some businesses, don't want employees to work second jobs that create conflicts of interest such as working for a competitor or a client. Before you take a second job, get permission from the first.

Rough patches also come up when one boss asks you to work longer hours that interfere with the other job. In those cases, it's important to talk to each of your supervisors and let them know about your duel commitments. Oftentimes, bosses will be understanding.