Job seekers, help wanted in WNY

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - The unemployment rate continues to rise, but there are hundreds of positions available in western New York. It's like a casting call for job seekers auditioning for a lead role as an employee at the New Embassy Suites Hotel in Buffalo.

Inside this office building on Delaware Avenue hundreds of western New Yorkers filled out applications for various positions.

Elizabeth Funderbirk is looking for a job. She said, "The process is pretty quick. They took applications and everything went pretty smoothly. I'm looking forward to a call. They said they will be calling next week."

Elizabeth Funderbirk came prepared with her resume. Ideally she'd like a front desk job. She's been unemployed for the past couple months.

Avery Wilson is in a similar situation. He was laid off from his job seven months ago. "It's been kind of rough. I have received unemployment so that's helped a lot." He's hoping to be hired as a pastry chief.

Not everyone here is unemployed. Juan Santos said he currently works in customer service at Sears but would like to become a night auditor for Embassy Suites. "I want to better my life. I want to work in the hotel business," said Santos when asked why he decided not to keep his job.

Out of hundreds of applicants, only about 90 people will actually make the cut.

Embassy Suites General Manager John Gurren said the starting salary is anywhere from 8 to 15 dollars an hour."

General Manager John Gurren said they're holding another job fair at the same location this Saturday from 10 until 3. His best advice, "Resumes if you have them. If not, just come in, have a big smile and come see us."

The new Embassy Suites is scheduled to open this summer. Hotel officials are holding a job fair Saturday April 18.

Martin's Fantasy island is also holding a job fair Saturday. They're looking for about 400 full and part-time seasonal workers.

"You've got to be flexible, all hours, if you have to work part-time versus full-time, just to get a foot in the door," said McGowan.

The Fantasy Island job fair is Saturday April 18th at 10am right at the park.  You can reach them at (716) 773-7591 ext. 3106 or visit their website for more info and to download an application.

If you plan on heading to the job fair Embassy Suites, it goes from 10 until 3 at 285 Delaware Avenue in downtown Buffalo on Friday and Saturday.  More info from Embassy Suites is below.

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Embassy Suites Job Fair

Saturday, April 18

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
285 Delaware Ave.
or, www.avantjobs.info
 

Individuals seeking restaurant and hotel jobs are encouraged to attend the fair or apply online at www.avantjobs.info . There will be brief spot interviews with Embassy Suites personnel both days of the job fair, but no preference will be given to online or job fair applications. Job fair and online applications are both screening processes, interviews will begin after the job fair is completed.

Embassy Suites Buffalo brings 80-90 new full-time equivalent positions to the area. “We’re seeking motivated and enthusiastic individuals with a range of background experience; from the very experienced to those just embarking on careers,” said John Gurren, hotel general manager. There are training programs available for all employees.

More information about Embassy Suites Buffalo and the types of available positions is available at www.avantjobs.info .

As a premier hospitality destination, Embassy Suites Buffalo offers a vibrant location, exclusive amenities and striking views. Located in the heart of Buffalo’s Central Business, Theater and Chippewa Entertainment District, it is within walking distance of local restaurants, theater, sporting arenas and seasonal events. The all-suite hotel will feature an Espresso Bar, lounge, a signature full service restaurant, as well as a spacious facility for made-to-order breakfasts and nightly manager’s reception. Other exclusive amenities include a salon and spa, pool, fitness center, business center and conference, meeting and banquet facilities.

In addition to the 150 room hotel, Avant offers Class A office space and three floors of luxury condominiums www.avantbuffalo,.com . Embassy Suites Buffalo is currently accepting reservations from July 1 forward, visit www.buffalo.embassysuites.com or call 1-800-Embassy. The Class A Office space will also open in early summer while the first condominium closings are scheduled for early fall.

Job seekers are welcome to send questions to hr@avantjobs.info . Due to the tremendous volume of interest in the positions no phone calls can be accepted. Interviewing for entry-level positions will begin in late April.

Uniland’s $85 million Avant is an innovative, sustainably designed, reuse of the former Dulski Building. The new downtown beacon had been off the tax rolls since 1968 as a federal building, but is now bringing visitors, residents and businesses to the abandoned block.

Uniland Development Company was founded by Carl Montante 35 years ago, creating