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Media contacts: Bill Tarrow, Deputy communications director, 360-902-9376
                           Rick Van Cise, WorkSource communications manager, 360-902-9454

OLYMPIA – With Washington’s apple harvest once again in full swing, local WorkSource centers are doing what they can to help growers find pickers.

Currently, WorkSource centers are working to fill more than 1,000 agricultural job openings across Central and Eastern Washington.

WorkSource offices have expanded their operating hours and opened temporary satellite offices in the middle of major farming areas. Employment specialists check in daily with local growers to assess the current labor needs, and visit gathering places in nearby communities to recruit workers.

“Most growers want experienced workers who can pick quickly without damaging the fruit,” said Paul Trause, commissioner of the Employment Security Department, which is a major partner in the WorkSource system. “But some growers are willing to provide training, so we encourage anyone who is interested in orchard work to contact WorkSource.”

As an example, two unemployed graduates from the University of Washington who had limited previous agricultural experience were hired this week by a grower in Tonasket.

“The basic message to job seekers is that it can’t hurt to ask,” said Trause. “Not everyone has the physical ability to pick apples, but WorkSource has thousands of other jobs available that need to be filled."

To work in orchards, workers must be able to climb ladders and haul heavy loads. More information is available for workers and employers at local WorkSource employment centers or online at go2worksource.com, click “Services for farmworkers” under “What’s inside.”

WorkSource is a statewide partnership of Employment Security, workforce development councils, other state agencies, colleges and nonprofit organizations that work together to provide free employment and training services to job seekers and employers. WorkSource also can help employers recruit and screen for qualified workers, apply for employment tax breaks and qualify for subsidized employee training.\

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WorkSource farmworker Web page: http://www.wa.gov/esd/farmworkers/farm_jobs.htm

Broadcast version

With Washington’s apple harvest once again in full swing, local WorkSource centers are doing what they can to help growers find pickers.

WorkSource centers in Central Washington have extended their operating hours and opened satellite offices in major farming areas.

More than one-thousand agricultural jobs currently are listed with WorkSource in Central and Eastern Washington.

State officials with the Employment Security Department are encouraging able-bodied workers with apple-picking experience to contact WorkSource if you’re interested. You can find WorkSource offices listed in the phone book or online at go2worksource.com.

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