Growing Seminole Casino Coconut Creek Brings More Jobs
COCONUT CREEK (CBS4)- South Florida job seekers may be in luck. That's because the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek is betting on new jobs, and it's getting ready for a hiring spree.
James Billie, the chairman of the Seminole Tribe, remembers growing up in a South Florida much different than it is today.
"Twelve years ago this here place was just a pond somewhere around here," he said.
Billie keynoted a Wednesday press conference announcing a $150 million expansion project.
From a little pond, the Seminole Casino of Coconut Creek has grown and grown and out-grown its current game rooms to the point where it's now in the middle of a major face-lift.
It's turned into a major jackpot for the close to 1000 construction workers on the project seven days a week, day and night.
On Wednesday, casino operators held out the help-wanted sign for 800 new jobs when the project is completed in February.
James Allen, CEO of Seminole Gaming, said there are job openings almost every level, including kitchen staff, gaming employees and management.
Dealer Donna Dever is a 20-year casino veteran who moved to Coconut Creek from Atlantic City. She said it's great work, and a great career.
"It's awesome benefits, it's fun and you never know what's happening from day to day, it's exciting to be near all the gambling and big money," she said.
A formal job fair is already scheduled for November 2nd, and Seminole officials said they are grateful to be able to keep all their gaming profits local and start hiring again.
James Billie added, "Sho Na Bish in Seminole means thank you, and we were and still are very thankful."
When the expansion project opens in February, employment at the casino will almost double to more than 1800 full time employees.
For more information about the Casino Job Fair, visit their Web site at gotoworkhappy.com
