Unemployment Falls but Staffing Woes Continue

The unemployment rate in Missouri decreased by two-tenths of a percent in September but businesses’ cries for workers continue.

Since the beginning of the year the unemployment rate has ticked up or down by one-tenth of a percent each month. Last month the rate skipped downward to 3.8% in September from 4.0% in August. Although the trend is heading in a favorable direction, businesses continue to find it difficult to find workers.

Businesses in Kearney announce their operating hours or closures daily on their social media pages. Employee shortages are the common reason for the announcements.

“The restaurant will close at 3pm due to staffing,” posted a local eatery. Another restaurant has recently closed on Sunday due to staffing shortages.

Many businesses have job listings on the Kearney Chamber of Commerce’s Job Board Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/kearneyjobboard). Here are a few examples:

Ply Gem has weekly hiring events with walk-in interviews at 303 W Major St. Kearney, MO 64060. They Offer: a $1,000 Retention BONUS, $1,000 Employee Referral BONUS, and Day 1 BENEFITS.

Quality Inn, Kearney has an opening in housekeeping from 9am - 1pm. Call Mikey 816-628-5000.

Signarama KC North is seeking a Sign Maker who enjoys being creative and building things! Apply at 1005 Middlebrook Dr. Suite B Liberty, MO 64068, or contact Lisa Freidel, 816-429-6925, lisa@signarama-kcnorth.com.

Verizon in Kearney and Excelsior Springs are looking for two full-time Sales Associates for IMMEDIATE HIRE. For more information call 816-986-8777 or visit either location: 408 W. 6th Street, Kearney, MO 64060 or 122 Corum Rd., Excelsior Springs, MO 64024.

Fox & Fire BBQ is looking for a long-term pit assistant! We need a trustworthy, high caliber individual who is looking to up their BBQ game. Must be 18+ and have and/or have the ability to get a food managers card within 30 days of employment. Please send resume and a paragraph or two introducing yourself to foxfirebbq@gmail.com

The City of Kearney, Missouri is looking for a sewer plant laborer which involves week-end hours.  Sewer plant experience isn't required.  You may pick up an application at City Hall.  For more information you may contact Donnie Smith at 365-1992.

Jimmy John’s in Kearney is hiring! Join a culture of Go-Getters who succeed through goal setting, willingness to learn and a can-do attitude. Perks include: flexible schedule options, advancement opportunities, employee discounts. Find out more at https://bit.ly/JJHiringDays

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story