HELENA — Season work can be a good way to earn some extra money during the holidays, and help struggling families get back on their feet.
Holiday hiring has begun in earnest, but those seasonal jobs are just a small portion of workforce shortage Helena businesses are currently experiencing.
“There is an incredible need for a workforce. Going into this pandemic there was a definite labor shortage. We’re starting to see some of that return,” said Bryan Bird, Job Service Helena supervisor.
Job Service Helena reports around 900 jobs available in the Helena area as of Nov. 10.
Bird says the season job postings have also come earlier this year.
“In previous years, we don’t usually hear about seasonal jobs until right about Thanksgiving time. Right now we have openings that I know are seasonal for UPS, Weststaff and Lowes; but those are just a small part of the 900 jobs we have in the area.”
Jobs range the full spectrum from part-time entry level, to full-time professional both in the private industry and through a government.
Job Service offices have counselors on hand ready to assist people find jobs, or get training to fill a job opening in the area.
“We have a variety of services that include coaching on interviews, sesame assistance, potential retraining programs in conjunction with the Helena College right now and other federal programs that might assist with certificates or other parts of your education.” said Bird.
More information about jobs available in your area can be found here. Training opportunities and other programs offered through the State of Montana can be found here.
Counselors at Job Service Helena can be reached by calling (406) 447-3200.
