The original item was published from October 29, 2018 4:02 PM to October 29, 2018 4:03 PM
Let me preface this blog post by admission of a bias—my bias that I believe that local government, not state or federal, continues to address the real problems most of us face every day. That is not to say that state and federal governments are not important—indeed much more could be accomplished at the local level if we could count on our state and federal partners to rise above politics and join us in governing. But in the meantime, thank goodness we have town, city, and county governments to get things done!
Now, with that acknowledgement, let me share an opportunity to join us in being a part of something that is making a difference in people’s lives every single day! On Friday, Nov. 2 beginning at 4 p.m., the City of Roanoke is hosting a job fair in the north lobby of the Municipal Building. The event, scheduled to last until 7 p.m., will enable folks to learn about positions currently open in the City, network with department managers and, in some instances, participate in an on-the-spot job interview. Career consultation and application assistance will also be available at the event.
What’s Available?
As of this morning, there are more than two dozen vacant positions listed on the City’s website. Positions in public safety, social services, planning and building services, facilities, and parks are available. There are positions that require professional degrees, such as engineers and IT workers, as well as positions that offer entry-level opportunities, such as custodians and park maintenance workers. The City also provides specialized career training for firefighters and law enforcement officers. There are opportunities to work in an office, outside, with community members, or supporting other City employees.
Why?
Other than that make a difference thing—which again, I think is a pretty big deal—the available positions’ pay starts as high as $55,000 per year, with most starting in the mid $30,000s or with rates of $10 - $12 per hour. In addition to competitive pay, the City has some pretty good benefits, including health care, life insurance, and some amazing retirement benefits. Additionally, once you go to work for the City, we offer numerous opportunities to expand your skills and education at our cost to prepare you for even more opportunities with the City! Along the way, you will have the chance to work with an amazing group of folks who are dedicated to helping their neighbors make Roanoke as great a place to live and work as possible—from the Mayor to our maintenance crews, and from our Council to our police officers!
Don’t just take my word for it that Roanoke is a great place to work, come and talk to folks who are working here making a difference every day. There is a reason why we have people work here 20, 30, and even more than 40 years!
Come check us out and if you know someone looking to make a difference in their community while earning a good income and great benefits, then bring them along. I will be there celebrating what a great place Roanoke is to work – will you join us?
- Bob Cowell