Students from across the Pine Belt explored employment opportunities at the Summer Job Fair held on Thursday, April 16, from 4pm-6pm, at the Ben McNair Center.
The event, hosted by the City of Hattiesburg and the Hattiesburg Parks and Recreation Department, aimed to connect local students with seasonal and part-time job opportunities. Various employers participated, including retail businesses, city departments, and nonprofit organizations.
Many high school and college students from across Forrest and Lamar counties attended, some dressed in professional attire and carrying resumes. Job seekers had the chance to apply on-site and speak with recruiters and hiring managers.
“We’re looking for reliable, energetic young people to join our summer team,” said Alayne Purser of the YMCA. “Events like this help us meet people face-to-face and give them a better sense of what we’re about.”
Opportunities ranged from lifeguard positions and retail sales to camp counselors and customer service. The Hattiesburg Police Department and Fire Department also had recruitment booths offering information on career paths in public safety.
Parents had the opportunity to sign up for the City of Hattiesburg’s Summer Camp hosted by Parks and Recreation that begins on June 2 and runs through July 11. The camp is cost efficient at only $150 for all five weeks and offers a variety of themed weeks for children ages 5-12.
“I didn’t know the city had so many programs,” said Jordan Hall, a senior at Hattiesburg High School who attended the event. “I applied for a parks assistant job and talked to a few nonprofits. Everyone was really helpful.”
Organizers said the fair also served to highlight workforce readiness among students. Several booths offered tips on interview preparation, workplace etiquette, and how to follow up with employers.
According to city officials, the Summer Job Fair is part of a larger effort to invest in youth development and reduce idle time during the summer break. Attendance was estimated at more than 100 students throughout the day.
The event concluded at 6 p.m., with many attendees leaving with job applications in hand and follow-up interviews scheduled.
More information about student employment programs in Hattiesburg can be found on the city’s official website or by contacting the Parks and Recreation Department.
