Employment | Cordova

Employment Information - Cordova Facility

Thank you for your interest in Ocean Beauty Seafoods – Cordova Facility. Our season generally runs from mid-May until the first week of September. In response to the many requests about job opportunities, we've developed this site information, which generally answers the most frequently asked questions.

NATURE OF WORK: Processors must be versatile and willing to perform a variety of tasks including (but not limited to) gutting, cleaning, packing and icing of seafood; operating various machinery; canning and casing of salmon; and general cleaning of work areas. Working conditions vary depending upon tasks assigned, which could include noisy areas where machines are operating, wet areas where seafood is cleaned, and cold areas such as walk-in freezers. Much of the work is repetitive due to mechanization and the large volumes of product processed. In short, the nature of the work is not typically glamorous.

HOURS OF WORK: Hours of work and days of work depend entirely upon availability of product. Most Alaska fisheries are highly regulated to provide for resource conservation. As such, commercial fishing boats are frequently limited to fish on certain days of the week. The effect on seafood processing companies is that they operate when product is available and suspend operations when no product is available. Processors, therefore, must be prepared for highly erratic work schedules. There may be periods of no work or minimal hours of work for a few days, to periods of 16 hours or more of work per day, seven days per week. Further, production requirements may dictate a mid-season transfer to another work location. While no assurances can be made or are implied, we expect our facility to be busy from mid-June through the first week of September.

WAGES: All processors are paid on a regular hour wage basis. Starting wage is $7.15 per regular hour, with time and one half for overtime hours. Wage increases are based on number of hours worked, job performance and abilities, tenure and the nature of the work performed. After 1,200 accumulated hours the rate is $8.00 per hour, after 2,000 accumulated hours the rate is $8.50 per hour, and merit increases thereafter. Payday is every two weeks. Payroll advances are not permitted. There is a Canning Completion bonus based on the number of cases of salmon produced for processors that work production and stay through the end of the season as determined by management.

TRANSPORTATION: The point of hire is Cordova, Alaska. The cost of transportation to and from the point of hire is the responsibility of the individual hired. Employer will provide transportation from the point of hire to the facility location.

ROOM AND BOARD: Bunkhouse facilities are similar to co-ed dormitories with separate bath facilities for men and women. Employees who utilize these facilities share rooms with other employees. Most of the rooms are large and able to accommodate 8 bunk beds. We do not have accommodations for couples. Sheets, pillow and blanket are provided. During peak production, bedding and personal laundry is done for you once a week on a schedule. Washers and dryers are also available to use free of charge for bunkhouse residents. Absolutely no cooking in the rooms. Room and Board charges, including meals, are $15.00 per day and $5.00 per day during periods when the Mess Hall is closed and/or when not working. Upon successful completion of the season as determined by management, these charges will be reimbursed. Unfortunately, room and board facilities are not available for all employees. Some employees rent rooms in the local community, if available.

WHAT TO PACK: Workers should bring clothing that is appropriate for very cold climates. The company supplies other work-related clothing such, as rubber boots, gloves, aprons, and rain gear. Personal storage space is limited; therefore, only 2 pieces of collapsible-type luggage or duffel bags will be allowed. Bringing valuables such as jewelry, expensive radios, etc. is at the employee's risk and is discouraged due to limited security. Employees are responsible for bringing their own personal hygiene items, as well as an alarm clock. Some items are available locally but may be more expensive. We also recommend that employees bring some spending money as it may be up to two weeks before a paycheck is issued.

MEDICAL/DENTAL CARE: All applicants are advised that personal and non-work related medical and dental care is available, limited and expensive.

HIRING & RETENTION: Prior seafood processing experience is desirable but not required. Hiring begins in May. Applicants selected are able to work until the end of the season. In general, the summer season ends anywhere from beginning to mid-September. Individuals who are most successful in this industry are those who are dependable, willing to work long hours when required and accept slow periods of little or no work on occasion. Frequent tardiness and/or absenteeism are not tolerated. Retention, wage increases and promotions are based upon performance, work ethics, acceptance of supervision, and the ability to get along with co-workers.

ZERO TOLERANCE: Possession of firearms, use of alcohol and/or illegal drugs on company premises (including company bunkhouses) is not permitted and constitutes grounds for immediate dismissal.

PROOF OF EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY IS A REQUIREMENT FOR EMPLOYMENT: Federal law and Department of Homeland Security stipulate that we hire only lawful workers, including U.S. citizens or nationals and non-citizens with valid work authorization – without discrimination. Applicants will be required to provide documents, which prove eligibility to work legally in the United States. Applicants must present these documents at the time of hire.

SUMMARY: Throughout this site, we've attempted to provide realistic information regarding seasonal employment. We hope we've neither painted an overly optimistic or an overly pessimistic picture. In normal years, good seasonal workers can expect considerable overtime hours and thus earn good seasonal wages. This has been particularly attractive to college students and others who have limited time and opportunities for other seasonal employment.

Individuals interested in seasonal employment in our Cordova plant are encouraged to apply online using our Employment Application. We look forward to hearing from you.

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