Toyota Hiring Process Underway in West Virginia
22 July 1997
Toyota Hiring Process Underway in West VirginiaBUFFALO, 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.