http://www.2news.tv/news/local/39519322.html
1,600 people apply for one Washington meter reader job
TACOMA, Wash. - It's a sign of the times that says it all - more than 1,600 people have applied for a single job as a Tacoma water meter reader.
Tacoma Public Utilities says the 1,600 applications were received when the position was advertised, and some 807 people showed up at the Tacoma Dome to take the test.
Typically the utility receives about 300 to 400 applications for such a job.
"It's a good-paying job. Starting pay is $17.76 an hour with full benefits ... and it tops out at $49,000," says Aaron Moe, a human resources analyst with the city of Tacoma who will help decide which applicant gets the job.
"I think it's tough times out there, and I think working for the government is pretty secure," he adds.
Only one of the 807 applicants who took the test will be selected - so the odds of getting picked are pretty discouraging for each individual applicant.
Experts say the huge turnout of applicants is a reflection of these tough times, as people are getting laid off, or are wondering if they soon will.
"You feel for people and their need. And when you see pictures of people in the lines, it's definitely heart-stopping," says Sonja Hall of Tacoma Public Utilities.
The utility wishes it had more jobs, officials there think they'll open two more meter reader spots in the next year.
Also, there is an entry-level electical trainee position open now that pays $20 an hour. Moe said he's gotten nearly 300 applications for that one - and it's only been advertised for three days.
Tacoma Public Utilities hopes to let applicants know the results of their test scores by Feb. 20, then they'll select candidates for interviews.
Then there will be one new lucky face showing up to read meters around Tacoma.
