Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development

On Tuesday, Dec. 22, the Missouri Office of Workforce Development (OWD) will host a Return Strong Virtual Job Fair in partnership with the Missouri Hospital Association. This fair will specifically seek job candidates to fill entry-level clinical and non-clinical positions throughout Missouri.

Job seekers statewide will be able to search job listings, meet with hiring companies in the health care sector, receive tips for resume writing and job interviews, and learn more about Missouri Job Center services and training opportunities.

Employers will list open positions and get access to a list of a job seekers interested after the job fair. Prior to the event, a social media toolkit will be sent out to help employers recruit candidates to attend.

“Over the course of the last few months, the virtual job fair has proven to be a great way for employers and job seekers to connect in a way that is both meaningful and safe,” said Mardy Leathers, director of workforce development. “The Missouri Hospital Association has been an exceptional advocate for the state’s health care sector, and we are excited to help them fill much-needed positions at health care facilities throughout the state.” 

Openings for the following jobs, many of which do not require prior experience or training, will be featured at this event:

• Dietary Aide (food prep)
• Environmental Services (janitorial work)
• Housekeeping
• Patient Care Technician
• Phlebotomist
• Office/clerical support roles
• Medical Assistants
• Nurse Assistants

“Hospitals are hiring,” said Jill Williams, MHA Vice President of Workforce Initiatives. “A virtual job fair is a safe and effective way to reach workers during COVID-19 and to ensure hospitals have the workforce needed to deliver and support care — now and in the future.”

All interested health care employers must submit an Employer Registration form before Wednesday, Dec. 16 to participate. More than 180 employers have already reserved their virtual booths. Employer registration is best used with Google Chrome. Click on “Register Now” and be sure to select the “December 22 - Health Care Industry Fair.”      

The Return Strong Virtual Job Fairs are part of the state’s efforts to help Missourians skill up and get back to work following the economic downturn caused by layoffs from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Dec. 22 event is one of four Return Strong Virtual Job Fairs OWD has scheduled for December. All upcoming fairs will take place from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Job seekers can register for any of the upcoming fairs at returnstrongmo.easyvirtualfair.com. Job seekers should create a profile and upload their resumes so employers can easily reach out after the fairs. 

About the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development: The department works to empower Missourians with the skills and education needed for success. More information about MDHEWD can be found at https://dhewd.mo.gov or on Facebook and Twitter @MoDHEWD.

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