"The solar industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the world right now," said Dr. Konrad Bachhuber, vice president and site manager for Wacker Polysilicon North America. "Here at the Wacker Institute, we work in partnership with Chattanooga State to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful career in this exciting industry."
Bachhuber provided an overview of the company and an update on the Charleston plant. Currently the project sees an average of 1,000 construction workers per day, and Bachhuber expects to see 2,500 to 3,000 workers at the peak of construction.
"Hiring qualified local residents from the Tennessee Valley is of prime consideration," said Dr. Erika Burk, director of human resources for Wacker Polysilicon North America. "Our recruiting process objective is to secure a qualified workforce matched to the skill level required by the specific positions."
More than 100 positions were filled with the company this year. Burk expects to fill an additional 70 positions by the end of 2012, and over 300 positions in 2013. Upcoming career opportunities with the company include maintenance, technical operators, chemical operators, fire brigade crew and engineers.
All positions are posted on www.wacker.com/careers, with new positions added daily.
Information sessions will be held at the Wacker Institute located on the Chattanooga State campus. They are held each Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m., and Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m., in the Resource Room. These sessions will be held until Aug. 16.
Due to limited seating, attendees are asked to RSVP to Deanna Swiney at 423-697-2601.
The Wacker Polysilicon North America plant near Charleston is scheduled to begin operation by the end of 2013. The plant will employ some 650 full-time workers.
