Santa Barbara Hospitality Career Fair timing perfect for recent graduates

GOLETA, Calif.-The last time Visit Santa Barbara hosted a career fair Rosario Terrazas wasn't actually looking for a job offer, but she got one anyway and this time she worked the career fair on behalf of her new employer, Hotel Californian.

She became the hotel's Talent and Culture Manager this week.

She advices applicants to pursue their interests.

"Don't give up, look, they are out there, the jobs are out there, employers are ready to interview on the spot," said Terrazas.

Visit Santa Barbara's Beth Olson said the timing is right for recent high school and college graduates.

"Hospitality is one of our main employers here in Santa Barbara and it covers a whole spectrum of different businesses," said Olson.

One participant said he isn't looking for a job, he is looking for a career.

That is what many employers like to hear.

Career fair participants included hotels, restaurants, Metropolitan Transit District and CalCareers.

CalCareers links applicants to work for the state of California. One of its job openings is with the lottery.

MTD's Hillary Blackerby said they need drivers and will pay them while they train them.

"We train you to get a Class C license, so you don't have to have that already." said Blackerby, "We pay a nice starting wage over $23 while you are training."

Other participating businesses included the MOXI Museum, The Montecito Club, and the Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta that offered one of its meeting rooms for the event.

Job applications have also gone high tech. They are using QR codes.

Starting salaries in the $20-30 range did not go unnoticed.

San Marcos High Class of 2022 graduate Juan Torres said he is ready to work.

And it appears he has plenty of opportunities to choose from.

For more information visit SantaBarbaraCA.com/CareerFair