Brockport businesses hoping to hire SUNY students as classes return to session

BROCKPORT, N.Y. (WHEC) — For months now, News10NBC has reported about businesses, especially restaurants that are in desperate need of employees. As schools start back up again, business owners in college towns are hoping students who are looking for a job, will come in to be interviewed.

News10NBC visited a couple of businesses in Brockport. Businesses owners told Patrick Moussignac they’ll hire anyone right on the spot, and in most cases, job seekers won’t need any prior experience to get hired.

Jimmy Z’s Plates and Shakes is one of the most popular restaurants on Main Street in Brockport is now only open five days a week because they simply don’t have enough employees. Owner Jimmy Zisovski is happy students at nearby SUNY Brockport are back in town.

"Normally we’re super excited for them coming back because it’s going to be a rise in business, but for the first time, we’re actually super excited to actually hire some new people, and hopefully get some new bodies in here, and help us get through these hard times," Zisovski said.

He is looking to hire at least six new employees immediately. Zisovski is banking on college students looking for work to come in, and make some money.

"As of right now like we need some counter staff. We need some kitchen staff. Definitely looking for some experienced line cooks. A kitchen manager would be great at a time like this," Zisovski said.

At times Main Street in Brockport looks more like a ghost town as many businesses continue to stay closed, or operate with reduced hours.

Java Junction Owner Peter Apicella has already been in touch with some student job seekers. He looking to hire at least three part-timers as soon as possible.

"If they have the availability that I needed. I don’t even really need experience. We can train them, but availability is the biggest thing. With them going to classes you have to pick out the ones that are gonna, for training, you don’t want them to work one day a week," Apicella said.

He went on to say that he’s providing job seekers a big incentive to get them in the door and hired.

"I’ve raised my wages for everybody throughout the years, even higher than New York State goes, or around the same level, but we also have tips. So with the tips during the day they can make $17, $18 plus an hour," Apicella said.

Both Apicella and Zisovski said interested job seekers are more than welcomed to drop by and fill out an application. They will also conduct initial interviews over the phone when possible.

The addresses and phone numbers for both businesses are available on the map below (mobile users, click here):