A jobs fair for people interested in a career in the health industry was swamped last week by more than 300 applicants, almost half of whom were unemployed.

The fair, organised by the Bermuda Hospitals Board and held at the Hamilton Seventh Day Adventist Church Hall, offered vacancies in health administration, nursing aide posts, maintenance, food, and environmental services departments.

Scott Pearman, the board’s deputy chief executive officer, said: “For people looking for work, or looking to join BHB it was an great opportunity to get interviewed. For BHB, these are critical positions for the safe and effective running of our hospitals.

“They are not new positions, but existing ones and filling them helps us run more efficiently.”

Mr Pearman said the fair demonstrated BHB’s commitment to employing Bermudians, and also enabled it to identify candidates for future vacancies.

He said: “Delays in filling posts increase operational costs, therefore we now have a rich pool of talent to fill future vacancies within a shorter time period. Even if participants don’t get an immediate follow-up call for January, future opportunities may become available.”

Mr Pearman said that almost half the attendees were currently unemployed.

He added: “There were many older and mid-career applicants, and a substantial number of hungry young applicants. On a positive note, there was a rich, ready-made talent pool of certified nurse assistant applicants who had been through the Bermuda College programme, highlighting the benefit of such courses at the college.

“We encourage members of the community to explore healthcare, dietary and facilities management training programmes on offer at the Bermuda College as they prepare people for future job openings at the BHB.”

People who could not attend the event but are interested in working at BHB can find vacancies and application forms here.