edmonton september19 2014 web

FREEWEEKLYPUBLICATION

EDMONTON | RED DEER EDITION

Edmonton & Area Opportunities

September 19- 25, 2014

SEE PAGE 3

SEE PAGE 4

SEE PAGE 7

SEE PAGE 13


MY JOB FINDER ALBERTA JOB OPPORTUNITIES2

September 19- 25, 2014Warehouse

ALBERTA EDITION

In This Issue:

Drivers/TransportationSkilled TradesCareer & Job TrainingWarehouseSalesPet of the WeekWorking Wise

Phone:

Toll Free:

Fax:

E-mail:

Web:

780 -410 -WORK (Edmonton)

1-888-410-9675

780-417-4629

MyJobFinder is published weekly to provide job seeker with up to date information about job opportunities in Alberta. It is available free of charge in the greater Edmonton and surrounding areas at grocery stores, convenience stores, independent businesses, employment centers, and schools.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. My Job Finder reserves the right to classify all advertisements.

2 . My Job Finder will not knowingly publish any illegal advertisements or any which are misleading to it’s readers. All copy and type arrangements are subject to the approval of the publisher.

3. Advertisers and their advertising agencies assume full liability for all content including text, illustrations, copyrighted photos, trademarks, etc.

Advertiser further agrees to make compensation to My Job Finder for any costs including attorney fees that may result from any claim. My Job Finder, the publisher

copy omissions by the publication other than the cost of space occupied by the error. All claims of error in publication (allowable only if a�ecting the value of the advertisement) must be made by Friday, 12 noon prior to the next week’s publication.

4. No cancellations accepted after Friday, 12 noon prior next week’s publication.

Publishers:

Sales

Graphics:

Donny and Shauna Lee

Mike Gress

Bob Martins

Sales:

Manager:

Vicky Jackson, Justin Quantz

“Work for the largest food distribution company in Canada”

Order AssemblersA JOB that engages mind and bodyat work, and doesn’t follow you home!

Does this sound like the job for you?

YOU GET Paid Training Productivity Bonuses Career Opportunities Other Bonuses

GUARANTEED TO EARN $16.70 per hour with regular wage increases

Potential to earn bonuses at the end of every month

Loblaw Edmonton Distribution Center16104-121A Avenue | EdmontonFax: 780-451-7383Email: [email protected]

As an Order Assembler, you will work in our Distribution Centre and prepare orders that will be shipped to our retail stores (Real Canadian Super-store, Extra Foods, No Frills, and The Real Canadian Wholesale Club). You will operate a double pallet jack and receive orders through our automated Talkman system. Your job will be to manually lift and stack cases of product on to pallets that will be shipped to our stores.

Health and dental benefits after 3 months


MY JOB FINDER ALBERTA JOB OPPORTUNITIES 3

September 19 - 25, 2014 Drivers / Sales

We’re more than just travel...

We’ll offer you the opportunity to lead a team

Flight Centre Limited is one of the world’s largest travel agency groups, with more than 2,500 businesses in 11 countries.

With 30 years of experience, Flight Centre is a leader in the travel industry, with $15 billion in sales, 16,000 employees around the world and profit of $300 million.

Most of our leaders started in our stores and have enjoyed rapid progression and growth through hard work and performance and you can too!

We’re more than just travel. If you’d like the opportunity to fulfill your ambitions then join Flight Centre today.

Apply now at www.flightcentre.ca/careers

Travel Sales Consultants

GOLDEN ARROW ISEXPANDING ONCE AGAIN!LOOKING TO FILL POSITIONSIN ALL DEPARTMENTS.

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERA Perfect Part-Time Job earn up to $125 per day.• Perfect opportunity for retired people looking for part time steady work or people looking to supplement their existing income or stay home moms who wants to keep their preschool children with them. Free training is also provided • Class 5 Advanced Drivers license needed. Drivers abstract to be provided at hire

SCHOOL BUS DRIVER TRAINER(Full Time Edmonton based)• Minimum three years school bus operator with a clean drivers abstract• Flexible to work mixed hours between school runs, evenings and weekends and during school holidays and summer• Pleasant demeanor commitment to safety and strong inter-personal skills, communication skills, presentation skills and leadership qualities

CAMP SHUTTLE COACH DRIVER(Full Time north of Fort McMurray based)• Coach drivers require minimum 3 years motor coach experience or 5 years heavy haul trucking required • Valid class 2 license with air brakes or class 1• CSTS certificate required• 14/7 rotation with split shift with early and late hours. Fly in and Fly out is available

SCHOOL BUS DISPATCHER(Full Time Edmonton based)• Minimum 6 months experience in Driver position with previous dispatch experience a plus• Knowledge of routing and local area / streets• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

SHOP FOREMAN (MECHANIC)(Full Time Edmonton based)• Heavy Duty Journeyman preferred or minimum Automotive Journeyman• Five years experience in vehicle repair and maintenance procedures• Two years supervisory experience• Valid driver’s license

APPLY NOWPlease send resume and current driver’s abstract [email protected] or fax: 780-451-8690Please clearly label the position you are applying for in the subject line.

We thank everyone who applies however only those considered for

the position will be contacted.



September 19- 25, 2014Skilled Trades / Operators

A leader in construction that takes pride in our employees.Safety, workmanship and teamwork.

M.A.P. Group of Companies headquarters is located inEdmonton and has grown to over 400 employees … be one today! We are currently looking for the following positions:

• Pipelayers• Topmen• Main Hoe Operators• Side Hoe Operators• Scraper Operators

Applicants must have water & sewer or earthworks experience.Competitive wages and benefits package.

Mail, fax or email resumes to the attention of the HR Department.14303-116 Avenue, fax: 780-455-5257

[email protected] • Teamwork • Environment • Quality

General ContractorUnderground Services

Infrastructure ReplacementSubdivision Work

IndustrialSite PreparationRoad BuildingPit StrippingPlant Work

Equipment RentalsSnow Removal

Equipment HaulingEquipment Sales



September 19 - 25, 2014 Career & Job Training

ON

LIN

E TE

CHN

ICA

L TR

AIN

ING

“I was able to work on it while I was on the road. My job in the oil and gas industry requires a lot of travel

and I could not attend a regular classroom program.”

ON

LIN

E TE

CHN

ICA

L TR

AIN

ING

ON

LIN

E TE

CHN

ICA

L TR

AIN

ING

Call a Program Advisor now!Toll-free 1-888-553-5333

www.gbctechtraining.com/jc

Study online, at your own pace and earn your technical certificate.

Develop your knowledge and technical skills in design, programming, installation operation and troubleshooting of industrial electronics, robots and PLC equipment.

Our Programs Feature:

or any time that is convenient to you



September 19- 25, 2014Drivers / Skilled Trades / General

TO APPLY: PH: 780.467.9897

FAX: 780-463-3341Email: [email protected]

VDM Trucking Service Ltd is a privately owned and managed company with over 40 successful years in business.We are currently looking for ambitious and hardworking individuals for the following areas: Edmonton, Red Deer, Grande

Prairie, Edson and Lloydminster. We o�er competitive wages, bene�ts and a fast paced work environment.

• CLASS 1 DRIVERS

(Short & Long Haul in Canada and U.S.A)

- 20 Ton Picker Operators- Winch Truck Drivers- Bed Truck Drivers- Wheeler Hands

• WASHBAY ATTENDANTS

(AFTERNOON SHIFT)

NOW HIRING FOR THEFOLLOWING POSITIONS:

• NISKU YARD SWAMPERS- Oil�eld Hauling- Highway Hauling

- Equipment Haulers • JOURNEYMAN TRAILER MECHANICS• JOURNEYMAN HEAVY

DUTY MECHANICS

• BED & PICKER TRUCK SWAMPERS

• JOURNEYMAN WELDERS (AFTERNOON SHIFT)

• JOURNEYMAN PARTS PERSON



September 19 - 25, 2014 Career & Job Training

[email protected] ● 780-425-0933www.elevatedlearningacademy.com

Enroll Today. Space is limited.

Next class in EdmontonJan 20, 2015 - May 23, 2015 Tue & Thur 5:00pm - 9:00pm, Sat 1:00pm - 5:00pm

All classes are taught out of our downtown campus.

Government funding available for eligible students

Take control ofyour future!

Applied NutritionScience Diploma

Fast Track Your Health Career with a 4-month Accelerated Diploma in

Applied Nutrition Science

Untitled-1 1 2013-07-16 4:02 PM

[email protected] ● 780-425-0933www.elevatedlearningacademy.com

Enroll Today. Space is limited.

Next classes in Edmonton

Government funding available for eligible students

Oct 20, 2014 - Mar 3, 2015 Mon - Fri 8:00am to 12:00pm

Jan 26, 2015 - May 29, 2015 Mon - Thur 5:00pm - 9:00pm, Fri 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Only4 Months

Long!



September 19- 25, 2014Skilled Trades / Labourers

Standard General Inc.

Heavy Duty Equipment Technicians (NOC 7312)

Job summary: Repair, troubleshoot, adjust, and maintain mobile heavy equipment used in the Road Construction Industry.

Responsibilities: • Perform maintenance, service and inspection of equipment to detect faults and malfunction.• Diagnose and perform mechanical repairs and maintenance of heavy construction equipment.• Test repaired equipment for proper performance.• Maintain a safe and clean work environment.

Requirements: • Journeyman Heavy Duty Mechanic Certi�cate plus over four years related experience required• Must meet Albert Apprenticeship and Industry Training Approval• Experience with and knowledge of Heavy Duty Equipment such as Paving Equipment, Backhoes, Loaders, Graders, etc.• Willingness to take direction and ability to cooperate and communicate well with co-workers.• Willingness to work overtime when required.• Willingness and ability to meet all safety requirements including pre-employment medical & drug/alcohol testing.

Compensation: $41.75/hour plus O/T pay and full Union bene�ts.Employment Terms: Permanent, Full-Time, Monday to Friday, Days, Over-time as required.

Standard General is looking for committed, hardworking and enthusiastic individuals. We o�er relocation assistance, professional growth opportunities, competitive wages and bene�ts.

Please submit Resumes by: Mail: Standard General Inc.250 Carleton Drive, St. Albert AB T8N 6W2

Fax: (780) 459-7639 Email: [email protected]: http://www.standardgeneraledmonton.ca/

Building Better Roads

Heavy Duty Equipment Technicians

Standard General Inc. is a major road construction contractor serving the Greater Edmonton Region for 45 years. Our Shop in Acheson is currently looking for:


Heavy Equipment Operators (NOC 7521)

Job summary: Operate loader, elevator, buggy, packers, skidsteer and/or other equipment involved in paving and road construction while taking instruction from foreman and grade person. Incumbent will also be required to assist with groundwork when needed.

Responsibilities: • Checking equipment and informing mechanics and supervisors of mechanical problems. • Identifying hazards on site. • Understanding general construction practices involving road construction and the issues involving ground disturbance. • Contributing to safe work practices that maintain a safe work environment.

Requirements: • Willingness to learn and take direction. • Ability to communicate well with co-workers. • Possession of a valid driver’s license. • Ability to work under pressure in some situations. • Physical capability to perform all physical action pertinent to the equipment being operated. • Ability to meet all safety requirements and applicable safety policies including pre-employment medical, drug and alcohol testing.

Compensation: $28.00 - $32.86/hour (based on experience) plus O/T pay and full Union bene�ts.Employment Terms: Local; Project-Based; Full-Time (Weekdays, Evenings, and Weekends) plus over time as required.





Standard General Inc., a major road construction contractor serving the Greater Edmonton Region for 45 years, is hiring experienced:


Construction Labourers (Entry Level)(NOC 7611)

Job summary: This physically demanding position supports the construction crews with manual labour including lifting, shoveling, raking, digging, and cleaning on worksites.

Essential duties and responsibilities: • Identifying hazards on site and informing supervisors of results.• Understanding and assisting with general road construction practices.• Contributing to safe work practices that maintain a safe work environment.

Requirements: • Willingness to take direction and communicate well with co-workers, • Physical ability to perform all physical actions listed within the job description, • Ability to tolerate dusty and noisy work environments, • Willingness to work overtime and take training as required,• Ability to meet all safety requirements including pre-employment medical, drug/alcohol testing.

Compensation: $20.00 /hour plus overtime and full bene�ts.Terms: Local; Project-Based; Full-Time (Weekdays, Evenings, and Weekends) plus over time as required.





Construction Labourers (Entry Level)

Standard General Inc., a major road construction contractor serving the Greater Edmonton Region for 45 years, is hiring for:


Construction Labourers (Skilled) (NOC 7611)

Job summary: This physically demanding position supports the construction crews with lifting tools and materials, shoveling and raking gravel or dirt, digging locates, operating jack hammers, moving barricades, directing tra�c, and running plate tampers. Includes working on job sites around heavy equipment and trucks operating in tight areas where communication is essential with all coworkers.

Responsibilities: • Assisting with equipment checks and identifying hazards on site and informing s supervisors of results.• Understanding and assisting with general road construction practices.• Contributing to safe work practices that maintain a safe work environment.

Requirements: • Willingness to take direction and communicate well with co-workers, • Physical ability to perform all physical actions listed within the job description, • Ability to tolerate dusty and noisy work environments, • Willingness to work overtime and take training as required,• Ability to meet all safety requirements including pre-employment medical, drug/alcohol testing.

Compensation: $23.00 to $27.03/hour plus overtime and full bene�tsEmployment Terms: Local; Project-Based; Full-Time (Weekdays, Evenings, and Weekends) plus over time as required.





Construction Labourers (Skilled)

Standard General Inc., a major road construction contractor serving the Greater Edmonton Region for 45 years, is hiring for:



September 19 - 25, 2014 Skilled Trades


Carpenters – Concrete Forms(NOC 7271)

Job summary: This position builds and prepares a layout of wood and/or metal forms for the construction of concrete sidewalks, curbs and gutters, and other concrete structures.

Essential duties and responsibilities: Measuring, cutting, shaping, assembling, calculating, and laying out forms according to grades and plan speci�cations; �lling forms with �ll materials and compacting with tamper or compactor to bring to required grade; and maintaining a safe and tidy work environment.Requirements: • Completion of high school• Must have over four years of related experience • Must meet Albert Apprenticeship and Industry Training Approval• Ability to perform heavy lifting; • Basic carpentry and mathematical skills;• Ability to read road construction plans; • Willingness to work overtime as required; and • Willingness to meet all safety requirements including pre-employment medical, drug/alcohol testing.Compensation: $26.00 to $32.60 (based on experience) plus overtime pay and full bene�ts.Terms: Local; Project-Based; Full-Time Hourly (Weekdays, Evenings, and Weekends) plus overtime as required.





Carpenters – Concrete Forms



Concrete Finishers (NOC 7282)

Job summary: This position performs a variety of tasks including placing, �nishing, protecting and repairing concrete.

Essential duties and responsibilities: • Placing concrete into forms or other surfaces according to grade and depth speci�cation. • Imparting desired �nish to concrete using either a hand trowel, long handled “bull �oat” or powered �oat. • Monitoring the wind, heat and cold as it a�ects the curing of the concrete. • Cutting joints/grooves in concrete with edging tools to help control cracking. • Applying hardening and sealing components to cure surfaces.

Requirements: • Completion of related post-secondary technical training plus over three years of related experience • Must meet Albert Apprenticeship and Industry Training Approval• Good vision, stamina, and hand eye coordination.• Ability to estimate size and dimensions. • Skill in smoothing and �nishing freshly placed concrete, applying surface treatments and restoring concrete surfaces.• Ability to perform tasks that include heavy lifting, climbing, balancing, stooping kneeling, crouching, crawling and reaching. • Ability to work outdoors in dusty or dirty environments. • Willingness to work overtime as required.• Ability to meet all safety requirements including pre-employment medical, drug/alcohol testing.

Compensation: $28.00 to $32.60 per hour (based on experience) plus overtime pay and full bene�ts.Terms: Local; Project-Based; Full-Time (Weekdays, Evenings, and Weekends) plus over time as required.







Road Construction Foremen(NOC 7302)

Responsibilities: • Understand, support, promote and lead all aspects of the company safety program, regulations, laws and codes; submit safety reports and hazard assessments as per OH & S legislation.• Organize and delegate crew/equipment for day-to-day tasks to optimize man hours worked. • Schedule daily construction activities through ensuring equipment and supplies, ordering of materials, and coordinating Quality Control testing.• Measure quantity of materials required and monitor yields and construction activities to minimize waste.• Hire, evaluate and develop employees.• Ensure job-site is clean and tidy, tools and vehicles are maintained, pre/post trip inspections completed, workers are dressed appropriately, wearing proper PPE and presenting a professional appearance. • Complete timesheets daily, measure and record daily production quantities, and complete daily Force Accounts as directed by Superintendent. • Communicate with inspectors, surveyors, and testers as required as well as the Superintendent to outline progress toward daily goals.

Requirements: • High school diploma plus 3 to 5 years of related experience.• Ability to read and understand construction drawings and speci�cations.• Knowledge of construction equipment, materials, and transportation of materials.• Strong leadership skills and a willingness to succeed and promote the Organization.• Extensive knowledge of company policies and procedures, union agreements and safety legislation.• Must be able to meet all safety requirements including pre-employment medical, drug/alcohol testing.•Ability to work weekdays, evenings, weekends, and overtime as required.

Compensation: $35.84 - $39.74/hour (based on experience) plus overtime pay and full bene�ts.Terms: Local; Full-Time + O/T as required (includes weekdays, evenings and weekends); Project-based.








September 19- 25, 2014Drivers / General / Skilled Trades

Driving a school bus just a few hours a day gives you a great reason to get up in the morning and a chance to make a difference in the lives of Edmonton area children. We’re hiring throughout Edmonton especially in South Edmonton, St. Albert and Fort Saskatchewan. We provide free friendly trainingand a clean, safe, professional work environment.

or Email: [email protected] www.�rststudentcanada.com

Call 1-877-914-KIDS

If you enjoy driving and working with children and would be available for a few hourseach school day, this would be perfect for you. Spare drivers also welcome.

Hiring & Training School Bus Drivers for Immediate Openings



September 19 - 25, 2014 General / Warehouse / Drivers

Domo Gasoline is looking for new people that are excited to work in this great environment and want tobuild on the momentum established so far. Preference will be given to those with prior cash

experience, and/or an aptitude for leadership.

• Paid training provided • Potential for advancement • Join the Jump to the Pump team!

Stony: 15015 - Stony Plain Road

Apply online at www.domo.caEmail: [email protected] / Fax: 780-421-1624Or apply in any one of our stores now!Only selected applicants will be contacted

Now Hiring at our WEST EDMONTON locations!Positions start at $11.00 per hour full-time with bonuses of up to $200 per month.

Saxony: 10145 - 156th StreetHwy #16: 17908 Stony Plain Road

Lynnwood: 8716 - 149 Street

Spring�eld: 17765 - 98 A Avenue N.W.

We’re making a difference. You can too.Looking for an opportunity to learn and grow? And to be a part of a winning team where your contributions are recognized, respected and rewarded?

Warehouse Job Description: highly physical labour, lifting up to 70 pounds, loading and unloading trucks, processing freight in the warehouse, continuous standing, lifting, bending and walking throughout the shift.

Warehouse Qualifications: Physically fit and able to lift up to 70 pounds, previous warehouse experience preferred Safety shoes required. All positions are physical jobs, which require a friendly, team-oriented person who is prepared to work hard, work fast, and work safely.

Walk in Pre-Screen InterviewsTuesday, March 26, 2013

9:00 am – 11:00 am at 17718 114 AvePlease sign in upon arrival.

This event is first come, first served.

Walk in Pre-Screen InterviewsTuesday, March 26, 2013

– 11:00 am at 17718 114 Avelease sign in upon arrival.

ent is first come, first served.

Purolator is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We would like to thank all applicants, however only those selected will be contacted for an interview.

Email your resume to: [email protected]

Right now, we're looking for great peoplefor the following positions:

Full Time WarehouseSunday – Thursday, Overnight shift

11:30 pm – 8:00 am (shifts may vary)17718 114 Ave or 3104 97 Street

$16.34/hour

Part Time WarehouseMonday – Friday

5:00 pm – 8:00 pm17718 114 Ave$16.34/hour

Class 5 CourierMonday – Friday, full time

40 hours per week17718 114 Ave or 3104 97 St

$20.07/hour



September 19- 25, 2014Drivers / General

Fax: 604-520-8020www.pepsico.ca/careers

Walk Ins Welcome11315-182nd Street NW Edmonton, Alberta

Class 1 Delivery Driver Needed!EDMONTON

PepsiCo Beverages Canada is now hiring dedicated, customer focused individuals to join our leading team in Edmonton as a full time delivery driver.

As the newest member of our team, you will bring a class 1 license, a clean abstract, and the ability to lift 45 pounds repeatedly. You are dedicated to your customers and want to ensure our product looks great on the shelves and in the coolers at each of your locations.

As a valued member of the PBC family, we will provide competitive compensation, a full medical and dental package, a company matched pension and more.

If this is you, we look forward to meeting you so please apply on line or by fax today!

Ecco Transport Services Ltd.is now Hiring Owner/Operators

for its City Tractor Service!

Call dispatch at 780-454-4495 or Email: [email protected]

Service TechnicianHotsy Cleaning Systems

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Hotsy Water Blast manufactures and distributes industrial cleaning systems. We are #1 in North America. Our products are high quality and our reputation for delivering excellent customer service is our greatest asset. For more info visit us online at www.hotsyab.com

Quali�cations:• Experience in AC/DC wiring and trouble shooting an asset• Experience in pump and plumbing repairs an asset• Preference given to technician with mechanical aptitude• Capable of lifting 50lbs.• Must supply basic tools

Responsibilities:• Diagnose, repair and service Hotsy pressure washers• Maintain record of repairs and service

We are looking for a candidate with a strong work ethic, high energy and integrity. Must manage time e�ectively and demonstrate an ability to analyze and solve problems.

To Apply E-mail: [email protected]

• Monthly Bonuses • Yearly Boot/Clothing Allowance

• Full Time Employment• No Sundays

• No shift work

Consolidated Gypsum Supply Ltd. is an Alberta/Saskatchewan based company serving builders and contractors for over 35

years. Headquartered in Edmonton, Consolidated Gypsum Supply Ltd. has seven Branch locations located in Edmonton,

Red Deer, Calgary, and Saskatoon.

Visit our website at: www.consolidatedgypsum.caSEND RESUME, DRIVER’S ABSTRACT TO:

[email protected]

CLASS 1 DELIVERY MATERIAL HANDLERS

EARN $80,000+/YEAR!



September 19 - 25, 2014 Skilled Trades / General / Career & Job Training

TO APPLY

780-438-6658 Fax:

e-resum [email protected]:

Now Hiring!Heavy Duty MechanicsClass 1 & 3 DriversPlant MaintenanceGeneral Yard Labourer

Base Foreman/WomanWe are looking for an enthusiastic BASE FORE-MAN/WOMAN to work year-round in a full-time capacity.

• Provide leadership for safety and quality on site.• Thorough knowledge of road base construction for municipal and commercial sites.• Proficient operator of a variety of heavy equipment.O'Hanlon is an equal opportunity employer offering work in the Edmonton area with excellent wages & benefits & a work truck.

Apply to: [email protected] orfax to: 780-438-1390www.workforfath.ca

NOW HIRING EDMONTON AREA JOBS



September 19- 25, 2014

EDMONTON HUMANE SOCIETY(780) 471-177413620 - 163 Street NW, Edmonton, AB, T5V 0B2[We’re located on the corner of 137 Avenue & 163 Street]www.edmontonhumanesociety.com

Founded in 1907, the Edmonton Humane Society (EHS) is committed to helping homeless and abused companion animals, enlightening people and enriching lives. The Society’s Animal Protection Department enforces Alberta’s Animal Protection Act by responding to concerns within the City of Edmonton about animal neglect. The EHS also actively educates the public and provides tool to help them be responsible pet owners while at the same time, cares for approximately 13,000 homeless animals who come through its shelter doors each year. The Society greatly

charitable organization is not a local chapter to any organization and does not receive any regular government funding.

Animal ID: 74903Name: RizzoAge: 1 year 10 monthsSex: FemaleSpecies: FelineBreed: Domestic Medium HairColor: Grey Tabby

Rizzo Included in the adoption fee:- Spay/Neuter surgery (done before being placed up for adoption)- Microchipping- First set of vaccines- Complimentary post-adoption vet exam- And so much more!

Greetings everyone:My name is Rizzo. I am a sweet, demure lady looking for a peaceful and patient home. I spent my whole summer here at the EHS; the lodgings are quite lovely, but I am ready to move on, and grace another abode with my regal presence.I am a mild-mannered girl who prefers to get to know my companions before getting too close, but I know with your help I can blossom into a con�dent kitty. I like to be wooed with treats and chin rubs, and I’ll show you my appreciation with gentle a�ection. Come say hello – I can’t wait to �nd my forever family!

PET OF THE WEEK



September 19 - 25, 2014

Dear Working Wise:I am struggling to find enough staff for my retail electronics store who have the basic math and computer skills required to do their jobs. Why are these simple skills so hard to find?Signed Frustrated

Dear Working Wise:

Working WiseWorking WiseWorking Wise

Do you have a work-related question?Send your questions to Working Wise, at [email protected]. Charles Strachey is a manager with Alberta Human Services. This column is provided for general information.

Dear Frustrated:

A lack of what many people consider to be “basic” skills is an emerging workforce problem.

When most of us think of literacy, we think of reading and writing, but the de�nition of workplace literacy has been expanded to include the following essential skills:• reading• writing• document use• numeracy (using numbers)• computer use• critical thinking and problem solving • oral communication• working with others• continuous learning

Albertans scored above the Canadian average in an international OECD survey of literacy, numeracy and problem solving skills released last October (http://bit.ly/1rCxX4f).

But one in three working-age Albertans do not have the literacy skills they need to succeed in today’s workplace according to Literacy Alberta.

It’s a real problem. A friend told me a story about having a 15 per cent o� coupon for a restaurant, but no one at the restaurant knew how to calculate the discount.

Literacy and essential skills enable us to solve problems, think critically, learn new skills, communicate e�ectively, and manage change. They have also been found to impact family well-being and our ability to get and keep a job. Solid essential skills are critical especially with today’s rapidly changing technologies and work environments.

Of course, we all have these abilities—it’s just a matter of how good they are. Essential skills can be taught and measured, but nearly half of Canadians would not score high enough according to the Calgary-based Essential Skills Group. They have a short, interesting video on essential skills on their website at www.essentialskillsgroup.com.

It pays to take essential skills seriously. Workers with good essential skills tend to be: healthier, safer on the job; more productive; adapt to change better; learn technical skills faster; make more money; and �nd work faster – 29 weeks faster.

A one per cent increase in essential skills translates into a two-and-a-half per cent increase in productivity according to the Essential Skills Group.

Current research shows that employers who invest in essential skills training experience a reduction in errors, absenteeism and workplace injuries, an increase in productivity, and build a more nimble, adaptable team.

Investing in literacy and essential skills makes sense. Employers can tap into programs like the new Canada-Alberta Job Grant (http://albertacana-da.com/jobgrant) to help them invest in their employees and reap the bene�ts.

The Alberta Government also funds more than 50 family literacy programs across the province. For more information on these programs, visit http://iae.alberta.ca/apps/literacy/famlit.asp

September is Literacy Month and September 26 is Essential Skills Day. You can learn more about literacy and essential skills, and discover resources for both employers and employees, by visiting Literacy Alberta at www.literacyalberta.ca or calling their helpline 1-800-767-3231.

Information is also available at www.hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/jobs/les/index.shtml.

Good luck!

©iStockphoto.com/Thomas_EyeDesign

edmonton september19 2014 web

Documents

job seeker

canadaorder assemblersa

distribution centre

weeks publication

convenience stores

grocery stores

retail stores

publication allowable