Volkswagen Hiring 1,200 Workers for New Automotive Plant in Tennessee

The Chattanooga economy will receive a boost in early 2010. That's when Volkswagen will start hiring 1,200 production team members to start working at their new automotive plant in Tennessee.

The application process for those positions begins October 26^th and only last three weeks. Those interested in applying can submit their credentials at www.vwjobschattanooga.com or by computer at any Tennessee Career Center. "All the applications will be received by computer, online," says Hans-Herbert Jagla, Executive Vice President of Human Resources, Volkswagen Group of America Chattanooga Operations.

Starting pay will be $14.50 an hour, but then that grows to $19.50 an hour after 36 months. Applicants must be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED, and have legal authorization to work in the United States. Team members will also be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including medical and dental plans, life insurance and retirement savings.

In a show of thanks for incentives offered from local and state government to help Volkswagen construct its new plant, the German automaker will give preferential treatment to applicants from the Volunteer State. "Our first priority will be for qualified Tennessee residents from Hamilton County and Chattanooga," says Ryan Rose, General Manager of Human Resources for the Chattanooga Operations. That could prove to be a positive for displaced General Motors workers in Spring Hill, Tennessee who will soon be out of work when production on the Chevy Traverse moves elsewhere.

These team members will assemble automotive parts and operate tools and equipment in a fast-paced, high-tech production environment. That's something local workers may not have much experience dealing with. Regardless, Rose says a new training academy being developed with Chattanooga State Community College will teach them how to build a car the "Volkswagen way," which centers around safety and quality.

The hiring process covers three areas: application, assessment, and interview. Rose says Volkswagen won't start reviewing applications until November 16^th, meaning there will be no advantage to apply on day one versus day 21. The assessment phase will be very thorough, with technical tests and a production simulation to see how an applicant responds to working on cars. The final step before receiving a job offer will be a face to face interview with Volkswagen staff.

Including managerial, human resources, and maintenance staff, this batch of hiring will put Volkswagen near 2,000. Should the economy turn around sooner rather than later, the automaker could may increase production, which in turn, would increase employment. "We are convinced that we will win the market with our product and will build up the workforce over 2,000 people," says Jagla.