A career fair will take place next month to enable construction workers and tradespeople to register for work on the Fairmont Southampton renovation.

A statement from the owner, Westend Properties Ltd, said local construction workers were encouraged to polish off their resumes and attend.

The statement said: “Extensive upgrades are planned for virtually every aspect of the existing buildings, and the results promise to be world-class.

“We look forward to not only once again welcoming locals and tourists to this premier hotel that has been a mainstay on the island for decades, but also resuming our standing as the one of the largest employers in Bermuda, second only to the Government.”

It added: “Anyone with experience in the trades — including electricians, plumbers, carpenters and masons — is encouraged to apply to work on the construction. People who have worked in any roles related to construction should also attend.”

The career fair will be held in the lobby of the Fairmont Southampton on June 1 from 10am to 6pm and on June 2 from 4pm to 7pm.

It is being organised by organisations including Workforce Development, Westend Properties and several construction companies.

A spokeswoman said the purpose is to get an expression of interest from people for the renovation. The fair is not being held to register interest in the hotel’s plans to build 261 residential and tourism units, for which a special development order is being sought.

She said: “Names will get entered into Workforce Development’s database and then people will subsequently be contacted for job opportunities at the appropriate time as job opportunities arise.”

Asked how many people were being sought, she said: “They are looking for as many local qualified construction professionals as possible.”

Applicants are encouraged to register through the Bermuda Job Board at www.bermudajobboard.bm and have the opportunity to receive training on interview skills and resume development from the Department of Workforce Development before the fair.

“Bermudians have been waiting a long time for the Fairmont Southampton to reopen and this career fair is a critical first step in reaching that goal,” said Simon Tully, the president of the Construction Association of Bermuda.

“The CAOB enthusiastically looks forward to getting started on the construction and urges everyone with the relevant skill sets to apply to work on this important project.”