Toyota Hiring Process Underway in West Virginia

22 July 1997

    BUFFALO, W.Va., July 21 -- As of 9:00 p.m. Monday July 21st
Toyota Motor Manufacturing of West Virginia, Inc., will have completed
scheduling appointments for applications for production jobs at the plant now
being constructed in the town of Buffalo, in Putnam County.
    "We are preparing to process the more than 27,000 applications we will
receive through West Virginia Job Services in Putnam County for our production
team member positions," said Steve Stalnaker, TMMWV's manager of human
resources.  "Employment ads ran in local newspapers which generated a large
response from the community and the media.  Over 80% of the more than 27,000
applicants are from West Virginia, with another 17% from the surrounding
states of KY, OH, VA, NC, MD & PA.  The remaining 3% are from other states,"
said Stalnaker.
    "Applicants called a 1-800 number which enabled them to select a time and
date over a two week period that best fit their schedule.  Our goal was to
provide an equal opportunity for interested persons to apply, and make the
process as manageable as possible for the individual, the community and those
taking applications," said Stalnaker.
    "Applicants will be coming to the Putnam Technical Center in Eleanor to
fill out application forms between August 4 - August 12.  We should see
approximately 350 people per hour.  Although this will be the first step in
the initial selection process, it will take us a number of months to sort
through the applications and process candidates through the extensive testing
and interviewing phases," said Mr. Stalnaker.
    The hiring process for production positions will involve written testing,
classroom and simulated work situations along with personal interviews.
Applicants will also be evaluated on interpersonal communication skills and
problem solving abilities.  Because of the length and thoroughness of the
process, it may take six months or longer before hiring decisions are made.
"The employment process at TMMWV takes considerable commitment on behalf of
the applicant, but it helps ensure a good match between the team member and
Toyota," Stalnaker said.
    "Toyota produces one of the top vehicles in the United States in terms of
customer satisfaction.  To add value to Toyota's success, TMMWV team members
must be motivated to maintain a safe work environment take pride in their
company and work, and be committed to creative and continuous improvement.
Therefore, our people must have the ability to become multi-skilled and
possess a willingness to learn new skills," he said.
    "We are committed to hiring the best possible people.  We are fortunate to
benefit in choosing from such a highly skilled work force available in this
area," Stalnaker said.
    The plant is scheduled to begin operations in the Fall of 1998.  When
running at full capacity, the plant will employ 300 people in total, and will
produce 300,000 Corolla engines annually.

SOURCE  Toyota Motor Manufacturing of West Virginia, Inc.