Arizona McDonald's hiring up to 1,000 workers

PHOENIX - A large-scale job fair will be held at every McDonald's in Arizona on Wednesday, September 8, as the chain seeks to hire 800 to 1,000 new part-time employees state-wide, according to a company news release.

Company officials say an unexpected popularity surge in new beverages, including fruit smoothies and cappuccinos, is responsible for the hiring demand.

McDonald's is hoping to recruit three to eight people at each of the 268 restaurants in Arizona.

Prospective employees can either stop by at any of the fast-food chains to apply and meet with a local manager or apply online at mcdonalds.com/careers .

The company is seeking only part-time employees, but Travis Heriaud, who operates 15 restaurants with his father, Lee, said these new job openings could develop into full-time positions later on.

He added that 70 percent of McDonald's managers, and 33 percent of current franchise owners, began as part-time workers with the company.

Heriaud said that along with a competitive wage, McDonald's offers flexible hours, free meals, uniforms and in some cases health insurance, depending on the worker's schedule.

Whether, it's McDonald's or any other job opportunity, there are things to keep in mind when you're job hunting.

First, keep it personal.

Don't just rely on the Internet, go out there and meet potential employers, said Jeff Seibert, general manager at Professional Placement, a job placement agency that has been in the area since 1955.

Seibert said mail or hand deliver your resume.

Always be ready for an impromptu interview, so dress appropriately when you're out job hunting, Seibert said.

Seibert's company finds people permanent and temporary jobs, so he advices people to take temp jobs and maybe even volunteer jobs because they often times lead to temporary employment.

Temporary and volunteer jobs may help you network and track down other jobs, Seibert said.