FLINT, MI -- Flint residents will be hired to help with water distribution at clean water resource sites thanks to a partnership between the state and GST Michigan Works!, Gov. Rick Snyder announced Wednesday.
The partnership will create 81 temporary, full-time, paid positions available for qualified Flint residents, according to a news release from the governor's office. Once hired, residents will fill leadership and general team member roles.
"Flint families deserve quick and easy access to bottled water, filters and testing kits until the water is determined safe to drink," Snyder said in a statement. "Members of the Flint community continue to support each other and there is no better group to assist in this effort. The partnership with Michigan Works! is another step toward ensuring Flint residents benefit from relief efforts in multiple ways."
The partnership aims to provide talent-based assistance to Flint and employment opportunities for local residents as part of a federal jobs training program through Michigan Works! and as part of a longer-term solution to the Flint water crisis.
"Not only will people have the opportunity to help others at water distribution sites, but they will begin the process of preparing for future careers by working closely with our staff, who will help them build skills for the job market," said Jody Kerbyson, CEO of GST Michigan Works! in a statement.
Employees will be trained by members of the Michigan National Guard who currently manage resource distribution sites, according to the release.
Positions will be open to all qualified applicants. Each position will be posted separately, but people with matching qualifications are encouraged to apply for each position, according to the release.
For up-to-date postings and details on how to apply visit www.gstmiworks.org/hotjobs or the Pure Michigan Talent Connect at www.mitalent.org.
Available positions will also be posted in the Employment Services area of GST Michigan Works! at 711 North Saginaw Street in Flint.