Job fairs bring hope to Niagara

More than a thousand people came out for day one of the Bass Pro Shops job fair in Niagara. The outdoors store is looking to fill 230 positions before opening day in November. By the time this job fair wraps up on Wednesday, they expect more than three thousand people to apply for a job.

You could almost feel the anxiety in the air at the Holiday Inn in St. Catharines this morning: “Nice to meet you.” — as hundreds of job applicants hoped to impress the managers at Bass Pro Shops.

Giles Fisher, G.M. At Bass Pro Shops: “We’re looking for people who have a natural ability to interact with people. That’s very important in a retail environment. As well as a passion for the outdoors.”

Bass Pro is an outdoor enthusiasts dream. Whether for fishing or hunting or hiking or boating. There are 60 stores in North America. The Niagara outlets location is the third in Canada.

David Popadinac lost his job two years ago when his company, Henniges Auto Parts manufacturer in Welland shut down: “David he’s ready for you.” He’s been doing contract work since then — but he wants a full time job: “Looking for work in the region is looking from Toronto and down. And you’re hoping to find something that will pay enough to cover your expenses, your gas, put food on the table.”

Bass Pro says its hourly rates are competitive but will not give us a pay range.