Valley jobseekers apply to work for Fresno Grizzlies

The team is looking to fill 350 positions at a time when unemployment rates in the Valley are in the high teens some even reaching twenty percent.

Every year this job fair brings in hundreds of people from the young to the young at heart even though these jobs are seasonal and some start at minimum wage. But, in this tough economy any job is considered precious.

These people aren't waiting in line for a baseball game. But, they are looking to work for the local baseball team.

"Just looking for a summer job."

Tori Wilson is a high school student who says her inexperience has made her an underdog not only at this job fair but at others in the Valley. "It's very hard because there's not many, like opportunities. I guess no one wants high school kids."

"Go ahead and start filling out the paperwork."

Dozens of people filled the seats of Chukchansi Park Saturday morning.

Some had an easier time filling out their application than others. All of them, however, are on the same page when trying to land a job with the Grizzlies this summer.

"We want all of our fans to have a great experience when they come to the park. Our slogan is 'Fun Guaranteed.' So we want to make it a fun place so people that really come in say hello and have a smile on their face every day," Ashley Tennell said.

While some are just looking a summer job -- others like Willis Lawson have been unemployed for months.

The former Saint Agnes Hospital worker is disabled. But, he's confident his people skills will land him a spot with the team. "I love baseball and listening to baseball. I'm a people person. I like to watch people too. And talk to people."

There are many positions offered by the Grizzlies. Everything from ticket takers, to ushers, to concession stand workers.

Job seekers spent the morning dropping off applications and talking to current team members about their chances.

Most say competing with a large crowd can be daunting. "It tells you there's a lot of of people out of work. It's great to see them but it's sad that they're out of work too you know."

"There's a lot of people that are trying to get in. You have to fight for it."

The Grizzlies have 350 positions open for this upcoming season. But they are bringing back some employees and did not tell us how many so the number of those actually hired could be lower.