Hundreds seek jobs at Margaritaville Hollywood
Wanted: “Exceptional people to create and deliver fun and escapism.”
That’s the casting call of the new Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, which kicked off a threeday job fair Tuesday seeking to hire 400 to 500 full- and part-time employees for its opening this summer.
“I think we’ll see thousands of people over the next few days,” the hotel’s general manager, Cate Farmer, said before opening the fair, which runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Thursday at the Hillcrest Golf and Country Club at 4600 Hillcrest Drive.
By 8:30 a.m., at least 100 people already were waiting in line, some for hours.
By 10 a.m., the line coiled several times back and forth. Candidates sought work in restaurants, bars, housekeeping, security, recreation and other resort areas.
Jobseekers said they were ready to show off their abilities to create and deliver fun.
“I love being around people,” said Mindy Cochran, 53, of Lau- derdale-by-the-Sea, who was seeking a bartending job. “I strive for excellent service. That’s the key to bartending. Anyone can make a drink.”
Allen Perry, 33, of Hollywood wore a bright purple shirt to convey his exuberance, eager for virtually any position.
“I’m coming with flare and fun,” said Perry, as the sun beat down on the long line of candidates. “I can even create my own job: director of fun and excitement.”
Gianni Lopez, 18, of Hollywood came in a wheelchair looking for a customer service position. He’d broken his ankle in a car accident two months ago.
“I’m very self-motivated. I’m a man of my word — very dedicated as you can see,” Lopez said, inching the chair up the line.
At least one fan of Hollywood Beach said he was lured by watching the 17-floor hotel slowly take shape.
The $147 million resort has been under construction for two years at Johnson Street and State Road A1A. It will offer 349 rooms, eight restaurants and bars, oceanside pools, a wave ride, a spa, convention space and other features..
“I was like, “Wow, that looks like a nice place to work,” said Joe Passanante, 63, of Davie, who wore a suit and tie to try to land a job in security.
Many in line were drawn by the Margaritaville theme and upbeat philosophy of songwriter Jimmy Buffett.
Andrew Larrosa, 18, of Pembroke Pines wore a Hawaiian-style shirt with flowers to blend with the tropical idea in hopes of landing his first job out of high school.
“It’s Margaritaville. I’ve got to fit the name,” said Larrosa, who described himself as “outgoing. I feel I can start a conversation with anyone.”
Standing under a red and blue umbrella to keep out the sun, Mary Francis, 54, of Hollywood hoped her appreciation for Buffett would bring her luck.
“I’ve never been to a job fair
before,” said Francis, as a stiltwalker entertained the crowds. “My favorite song is ‘Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes,’ which is true.”
Hotel manager Farmer said Margaritaville will hold further interviews at the resort in the coming weeks for those candidates selected at the fair.
No date has been set for opening Margaritaville, but guest reservations are being accepted for Oct. 1. Employees could begin at work in July.
A cheerful Nicole Horlock, 27, of Plantation aims for a front-desk position at the new resort, where she can share the joy of her favorite Buffett song: ‘Margaritaville.’
“If you are not happy at work,” said the experienced hotel employee Horlock, “you best can’t be happy.”
For a list of available jobs and requirements, go to margaritavilleresorts.com/ careers/hiring-event
“I think we’ll see thousands of people over the next few days.” Cate Farmer, general manager of Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort