KLAS-TV Channel 8 News Las VegasTemp Services Looking for Tech Savvy Workers
As the economy continues to decline, many Nevadans are finding themselves with out a job. Layoffs and failed companies have led the state above the national average in unemployment, and many are now left searching for those few remaining positions
Staffing experts say there isn't one sector that is hiring as a whole, but there are some types of jobs that seem to be less affected by the downturn, and that's what a lot of the students at ITT Tech are banking on.
The pool of applicants is deeper than ever, but the job pool is pretty shallow, leading many to the door of temp companies and job placement firms like Manpower.
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"The jobs are out there, but I cannot tell you they are in any one sector. We are placing a lot of people in administrative positions, general labor positions, the IT field seems to be holding fairly strong," said Dan Ward with Manpower.
The draw of IT work has many going back to school in hopes computers will equal work security in this insecure time.
"I have a job now, but it is not something that can possibly go down the road, so I need something more stable. I have a large family. I need to provide for them," said student Jeremy Olaguer.
Many students at ITT hope what they're learning will keep them above the financial downfalls and unemployment, "Computers are not going anywhere. Internet is not going to go anywhere and most companies have computers -- internet structure. They have our jobs. Our job is mandatory, so it is the best field to get into."
For others, education may still be what's needed to land the remaining jobs in the market. Many construction and casino workers never had to gain extensive computer skills and now new jobs require them.
"Get your basic computer skills training squared away. 70-percent of employers say they wish the people applying them had better basic writing skills. Business writing is huge need," said Ward.
Staffing experts say there is still a demand for mid to entry level office work, where computer skills are key. For those in the medical field, there are many openings for health care workers.
Ward also says convention work is still plentiful for those looking to work to supplement income or just for an occasional part time job. He said that best thing you can do is not just apply for a job and then walk away. Follow up on your resume and applications.
He said that is especially important for sales positions, where employees are looking for aggressive people.
