U.S. Census bureau is looking for a 'huge labor pool'

They expect to test about 3,000 people between now and April, for jobs running from now through May 2010.

The U.S. Census Bureau is now conducting testing sessions in towns throughout the state in order to recruit short-term workers to help with a variety of tasks.

Currently, the U.S. Census Bureau is hiring enumerators, said local coordinator Jack Harrington. Workers will be trained to use a handheld GPS system and help take inventory of buildings.

“Buildings get torn down, and of course there is new construction, so the job is to update the records,” Harrington said.

The next local testing session will be held in Mansfield at 10 a.m. on Jan. 26 in the Buchanan Center/Mansfield Library, on Route 89. (Note: if school is canceled because of bad weather, the testing session will be rescheduled at a date to be announced.)

The half-hour test covers basic reading and mathematic skills.

In order to qualify for a U.S. Census job, applicants also must bring two forms of approved identification. These include a driver’s license, Social Security card, birth certificate, and a valid U.S. passport.

The regional office, at 280 Trumbull St. in Hartford, opened just two weeks ago and has been very busy, ever since. “This office is actually responsible for about two-thirds of the state,” Harrington said.

“They need a huge labor pool. They expect to test about 3,000 people between now and April,” he said, for jobs running from now through May 2010.

The recruitment office is responsible for scheduling testing, and can be reached toll-free at 866-861-2010 for information for testing dates in other area towns.

Hours can range from 10 to 40 hours, with some flexibility as to when the work is done. The hourly pay is “competitive,” and there is mileage reimbursement, Harrington said.

And the idea is to place people in their own communities.

“It’s a good way to pick up some cash, and it’s a chance to serve your community,” Harrington said.

For more information about being a census worker, click here

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