Seasonal Job Opportunities in Gainesville, Florida

The holiday hustle and bustle is almost here. Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and Christmas will follow shortly after. It's that time when many Americans begin to apply for seasonal job opportunities to supplement their income and/or retirement.

Keep in mind, October 2009 unemployment figures represent a 26 year high in the U.S. unemployment rate, sitting at 10.2 percent. It is likely that stores will hire fewer seasonal staff if they expect below-average consumer demand. With so many Americans unemployed and consumers spending less money, seasonal job opportunities may be in higher demand than anytime in the last quarter century.

In Gainesville, a true college town located in North-Central Florida, I expect higher competition than usual for all local opportunities. But, do not despair! There are some great options for the holiday season right here in Gator country, and they are hiring now!

Without further adieu, here are five seasonal job opportunities available now right here in Gainesville, FL:

1. UPS Seasonal Driver Helper
UPS is now hiring individuals for a seasonal opportunity as a "Driver Helper". Described as a fast-paced position involving continual lifting, you certainly qualify as Santa's little helper, delivering gifts to the surrounding area.

The company states that the hours vary but usually begin after 8:00 AM and end before 8:00 PM. If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, go for it!

To apply, simply follow the link below and fill out the requested information:
https://ups.managehr.com/screening/hourly/apply.aspx?l=FLGAI&p=4

2. Radio Shack Seasonal Sales Helper
Radio Shack tells us on their website that they are looking for "motivated, sales-oriented people who want to be part of a leading retail team." Radio Shack is looking for applicants available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays through December 2009.

While retail sales experience may be helpful, Radio Shack does not require it.

To apply, follow the link below and click "Apply Now" on the right hand side of your browser:
http://www.jobsatradioshack.com/sales-associate_seasonal.html

3. Macy's Seasonal Sales Associate
Macy's at the Oaks Mall on Newberry is looking for Seasonal Sales Associates. This appears to be mostly a retail customer service/sales position, so be prepared to work in a team environment. One great perk is Seasonal Sales Associates get an employee discount of up to 20% beginning with your very first workday!

To apply for this opportunity with Macy's, follow the link below:
http://www.macysjobs.com/apply/default.aspx

Please Note: You are going to need to enter job number 71800469 and select "Search for Jobs". Choose the resulting link, and follow the instructions to apply.

4. T-Mobile Seasonal Sales Rep
T-Mobile in Gainesville is searching for a Seasonal Sales Representative. For this opportunity, you will be expected to provide customer service to T-Mobile customers. Based on the application website, it looks like you may be doing some customer retention work, so make sure this opportunity is right for you before you apply.

Also, T-Mobile does not specify whether you will be interacting with customers by phone or in person. I would be prepared for both.

To apply for this opportunity follow the link below and click the link "apply":
https://tmobile.recruitmax.com/ENG/candidates/default.cfm?szCategory=jobprofile&szOrderID=237825

5. Brookstone Seasonal Management and Sales Associate Positions
Brookstone in Gainesville, the specialty retailer, is looking for both Seasonal Management and Seasonal Associate positions. This opportunity, like Macy's (#3) is located in the Oaks Mall on Newberry Road. The managerial position will most likely look for more retail experience than the sales associate position.

The opportunity does not specify whether or not they offer an employee discount, but wouldn't that be great! There are always great gift opportunities at Brookstone.

To apply for this position with Brookstone in Gainesville, follow the link below:
http://jobview.monster.com/SEASONAL-MANAGEMENT-SALES-ASSOCIATE-POSITIONS-Gainesville-FL-Job-gainesville-FL-US-83976969.aspx

Please Note: The advertisement for this position is on the website Monster.com. Scroll to the bottom of the browser screen and select the appropriate link to apply.

All of these opportunities were available when this article was published. With the season quickly approaching, I would not be surprised if the opportunities were filled quickly. For more openings check your local newspaper or the job boards Careerbuilder.com and Monster.com.

And to increase your chance of landing one of these jobs, dress the part and keep a positive attitude. First impressions are critical in the interview process for seasonal staffing. Bring a copy of your resume with you when you interview, and be prepared to sell yourself as the best man or woman for the job. Good luck!