Otsego County - The Jobs Scene

Otsego County

the job scene Thursday, October 10, 2019

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► ‘ PATHWAYS To PROGRESS’ SUMMIT ► 5 EMPLOYEES SAY WHY THEY LOVE THEIR JOBS ► call Renewed for ‘knowledge jobs’ For 211 Years

AllOTSEGO.com

21 Railroad Ave., Cooperstown, NY 13326 • 607-547-6103 • info@allotsego.com

B-2 The Job Scene

Thursday, October 10, 2019

AllOTSEGO.com

►FOR BREAKING NEWS FROM ‘PATHWAYS TO PROSPERITY,’ VISIT www.

Top Businesspeople Confer On Otsego County Workforce Challenges ONEONTA

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ow do we spark economic development in our region using the resources that we have?” asked Otsego County Chamber of Commerce President Barbara Ann Heegan.

That was the question that informed “Pathways to Prosperity,” the second annual Mohawk Valley Region Work-

force Summit, being held – perhaps as you read this – at SUNY Oneonta’s Morris Hall.

“Who better to answer that question than local leaders who have been 30 years in business, hiring smart Heegan people, moving their businesses forward?,” she continued

Are you thinking about moving onta a new career?

The City of Oneonta and Oneonta Municipal Civil Service Commission offer job opportunities in a variety of fields. Whether you’re interested in a career in law enforcement, fire protection/EMS, public works, custodial services, transit operations, clerical work, or any other municipal function, start your job search by checking www.oneonta.ny.us/personnel.

There you will find current job openings with the city as well as civil service opportunities with the Oneonta City School District, Huntington Memorial Library and the Oneonta Housing Authority.

Check the website often to find the perfect job for you and become a part of the team proudly serving the City of the Hills.

www.oneonta.ny.us/personnel

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OTSEGO COUNTY

SOCial WElfarE ExamiNEr $28,777 -$33,912 The Otsego County Department of Social Services is looking for dedicated individuals to join their team in serving the community. You will be determining financial eligibility for various programs administered by the local social services district and recommending amounts of assistance in accordance with established policies and procedures. Applications and job descriptions are available at the Otsego County Personnel Dept., 197 Main St., Cooperstown, NY 13326 or on our website otsegocounty.com.

Last date to file: 10/16/19 EOE.

in an interview. Further, “how can we tap into our abundance of higher education?”

Here are some of the highlights of the Workforce Summit: • Governor Cuomo’s director of workforce development, Madhuri Kommareddi, planned to discuss the future of the state’s workforce.

• A presentation on SUNY Oneonta’s Entrepreneurship Club and how to tap

into its ideas, led by Wade Thomas, School of Economics & Business Dean, and Otsego Chamber board chair Al Rubin.

• Al Cleinman, president of Cleinman Performance Partners, the national consultant to optometrists, who electrified last year’s conference at The Otesaga with a call to develop “knowledge workers,” planned to revisit and update his concept.

Thursday, October 10, 2019

They Love Their Jobs

The Job Scene B-3

5 Believe They Have Found Careers Of Their Dreams In Otsego County KRISTEN QUIGLEY Springbrook Assistant Manager

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high-five, Kristen Quigley recognizes, can change someone’s whole day around.

“I love that, with the people I work with, it doesn’t matter if they’ve had a good day or a bad day, you can make that day better with a high-five, some music or even a favorite sensory toy,” said Quigley, assistant manager at Springbrook Swart Hollow Home, Southside Oneeonta.

As the assistant manager, she is responsible for coordinating staff, meal planning and shopping, cooking, scheduling medications, and organizing outings for seven adults with developmental disabilities.

Quigley came to Springbrook eight years ago. In her first home, when she was just 18, she learned what she considers one of her most valuable lessons. “There was a man there who

was old enough to be my grandpa,” she said. “And he taught me a lot about how to treat him so that I could help him achieve his goals with the time he had left. He knew his time was coming, and he wanted to do things on his time, not ours.”

PAM MORRISSEY JCPenney Manager

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am Morrissey’s two passions are people and fashion, and as the manager of JCPenney at the Southside Mall, she’s able to make a career out of both. “I love serving our community as the local department store,” she said.

Since coming to Oneonta at 18 to work at Ames and, later, Harold’s Army/Navy, she has made a career out of retail. “I’ve been in retail forever,” she said. “I love clothes and I love the public!”

She’s now worked at JCPenney for 15 years, starting as an associate in the children’s department and working her way up to the visual

A GREAT PLACE TO WORK! Now taking applications: Maintenance Handy Man, Lifeguards, Front Desk Staff & more We are dedicated to helping the people who utilize our services. If you’re ready to make a difference, apply at the Send resumes to

skurkowski@ONEONTAYMCA.ORG Oneonta Family YMCA 20-26 Ford Avenue, Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-0010

advertising department until the company did away with the position.

With 43 employees working for her, she strives to make sure that they have as good an experience as she’s had, including making a full Thanksgiving dinner for the employees who work the preBlack-Friday sales.

GREG PECK Unalam Beam Fabricator

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or Greg Peck, taking a job at Unalam helped him put his family first. “I was a production manager at another plant, 6 in the morning until 6-7 at night,” he said.

“My wife and I had a new baby girl, and I was just never there, and I was getting burned out.”

He had grown up with the Van Cotts, owners of the family-run wooden-truss company, including

serving on the volunteer fire squad with Leif, and he was offered a job in the yard. “I went in at 6 a.m. and got off at 2:30,” he said. “I felt like I had a whole other day!”

Though he started doing a variety of jobs in the yard – helping to pull lumber needed for the day’s project, learning how to visually grade which pieces will go outside and inside of a beam and running the three-part “scarfer” operation to get the beams to the right size, he was named a yard foreman earlier this year.

MOLLY MYERS Fenimore, Farmers Museum Development Associate

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olly Myers wants to make sure that everyone coming to The Fenimore Art Museum and The Farmers’ Museum is Please See 5 JOBS, Pg. 4

We Have Local Roots.

And we like local people working at our local branches!

With branches in Bainbridge, Delhi, Greene, Hancock, Norwich, Oneonta (Market Street and Oneida Street), Sidney and Walton, we may have something right for you!

Visit us online at sfcuonline.org, stop by or call 1-877-642-7328.

Federally Insured by NCUA

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B-4 The Job Scene 5 JOBS/From Pg. 4

Production Sportsfield Specialties Inc., North American leader in sports construction equipment located in Delhi, NY is looking for high-energy, positive, and flexible candidates for the following seasonal and full-time positions:

General Laborer • Assembly • Shipping RequIRemeNtS: Must be 18 years of age with High School Diploma.

Relevant manufacturing experience a plus. Overtime and occasional weekend work required during summer months.

GRowth PoteNtIAl AND SAlARY Doe To apply, submit application online at www.sportsfieldspecialties.com, apply in person at 41155 State Highway 10, fax your resumé to 607-746-3107 or mail to Human Resources, P.O. Box 231, Delhi, NY 13753.

SPoRtSfIelD SPecIAltIeS, INc. IS AN AffIRmAtIve ActIoN, equAl oPPoRtuNItY emPloYeR.

able to make the same happy memories she did as a kid.

“I think it’s so cool what they offer here for people of all ages,” she said. “I have so many memories of coming here as a kid, and I want to make sure that others have that opportunity too.”

Myers, who started in January as a development associate for the museums, moved back to her Cooperstown hometown from Albany. “I missed the community,” she said. “I’m very passionate about younger people moving back to the area, and the museums really help with that.”

Though she coordinates with museum supporters and puts together fundraising calls year-’round, her biggest task this year was putting on the annual Gala, which had a Rock & Roll theme to coordinate with “Herb Ritts: The Rock Portraits” exhibit.

Thursday, October 10, 2019

MAURICE ODAGO SUNY Oneonta

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hemistry professor Maurice Odago came to SUNY Oneonta to fill in for a professor on sabbatical, and never left.

“I came in 2010, then in 2011 I was a visiting professor,” he said. “In 2012, I was put on the tenure track.”

He taught chemistry in Kenya for three years before he got his Ph.D. at SUNY Binghamton, where he also taught for a short while before the job opened at SUNY Oneonta.

“The chemistry department is a fabulous place to work,” he said. “We have excellent and supportive colleagues, and the students are great as well. You are so proud of them when they succeed after graduation.”

Thursday, October 10, 2019

GUEST EDITORIAL

OTSEGO COUNTY diSpaTChEr

$33,684 -$39,324 The Otsego County Department of E-911 is looking for an individual with telecommunication skills to join their dedicated team in serving the community. You will be responding to incoming telephone calls and dispatch the appropriate personnel, monitor national warning systems, and maintain communication with emergency units during dispatch among other duties. Applications and job descriptions are available at the Otsego County Personnel Dept., 197 Main St., Cooperstown, NY 13326 or on our website www.otsegocounty.com.

Last date to file: 10/16/19 EOE.

Bruce Hall Corp. is seeking to hire individuals for FULL-TIME HEATING OIL DELIVERY DRIVER Experienced CDL/Hazmat Driver for local deliveries of Heating Oil. Competitive Pay and Benefits, including Full Medical and Profit Sharing.

YARD LAbOR pOsITIONs Computer and/or forklift experience helpful but not required. Competitive Compensation Package.

Salary based on experience, benefits included.

Please inquire and apply in person at 206 Main Street, Cooperstown. 607-547-9961 brucehallhomecenter.com • Like us on facebook

The Job Scene B-5

Our Future: Knowledge Workers

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rom 1790 to 1830, William Cooper These institutions now have over 87,000 attracted over 50,000 people to Otsego alumni scattered around the globe. Our stuCounty. It took him only 40 years to dent guests take their gained knowledge and accomplish that feat! then largely make their contributions During the ensuing 188 years, elsewhere. It’s time for change.

Otsego County has seen a net gain Our area’s future lies with the of just 8,700 people! And we’re knowledge economy, the ultimate currently in the midst of a population destination of the majority of our contraction: 2,000 people have institutions’ graduates. abandoned our county since 2010.

Knowledge industries are those that This population erosion drives rely on the intensive use of technology increases in our tax burden which and human capital, including education, are not sustainable! consulting, finance, insurance, health AL As a businessman, I’ve been service, and communications. trained to look beyond symptoms to CLEINMAN As important as manufacturing is to uncover the solution to a problem or our economy, our future lies not in proopportunity. While population decline ducing widgets, but in developing knowledge is not unique to our area, we may have industries that make a difference in the world a unique solution. while consuming exponentially fewer natural Our area enjoys breathtaking natural beauty resources than manufacturing; perfect for an and world-class cultural resources. We are area blessed with natural beauty. also blessed to be the home of two nationally A decade ago, our knowledge firm was the recognized educational institutions. SUNY recipient of a $30,000 grant from the City of Oneonta and Hartwick College produce about Oneonta and a $100,000 loan (paid-off early) 1,300 graduates each year.

Please See CLEINMAN, Pg. 7

www.countryclubautogroup.com would like to congratulate

THINK YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES? The region’s largest auto group is always looking for good people. If you’re looking for a great place to work and want to work hard, give us a call!

Immediate openings for

Sales Person & Service Technician countryclubautogroup.com 607-432-2800

Thursday, October 10, 2019

B-6 The Job Scene

Heritage at tHe Plains at ParisH Homestead CaPital senior living Community

Come work with us and get a rewarding experience working with seniors!

Driver FT Receptionist PT Prep Cook FT Dining Servers PT TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED AND WILL HAVE TO WORK SOME WEEKENDS Please apply in person at Heritage at the Plains

163 Heritage Circle

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Springbrookny.org Springbrook is on an endless mission to find the right people — people who share our values, share our dreams, and share our passion. Springbrook is a place where learning never ends, challenges are conquered and dependence is transformed into independence. Are you ready for a career with meaning?

Then, what are you waiting for?

CNC Press Brake Operator Sportsfield Specialties is seeking a hands-on experienced CNC Press Brake Operator who can work independently and/or with others as a production team member with good analytical skills. Candidate must be reliable and flexible with schedule during summer months.

RESPONSIBILITIES/DuTIES INCLuDE BuT NOT LImITED TO: Programming and setting up press brake for forming of sheet metal parts, specifically, Amada I3 controllers; Operating the machines and running of parts; Maintenance of tooling and equipment; Must be able to adapt, perform communicate in a fast paced, high mix/low volume fabrication shop.

REQuIRED QuALIFICATIONS: ExPErIEncE: Ability to program, run and maintain equipment; Experience using precision measuring equipment; Proficient in reading, comprehending and interpreting drawings and sketches; Understanding of maintaining tolerances in production and sample runs; Knowledge of material thicknesses and types; SKIllS: Outstanding communication, organizational and attention to detail skills; Ability to multi-task in a fast-pace environment; Ability to collaborate professionally at all levels or organization; Self-motivated with a willingness to learn; Personable and approachable; Fabrication and construction Trade a plus; Flexible schedule when required.

SALARy DOE, gREAT BENEFIT PACkAgE INCLuDES BuT NOT LImITED TO: Health, dental, vision, 401(k), Flexible spending, life insurance and paid time off. To apply, submit application online at www.sportsfieldspecialties.com, apply in person at 41155 county Highway 10, fax your resumé to 607-746-3107 or mail to Human resources, P.O. Box 231, Delhi, nY 13753.

SPORTSFIELD SPECIALTIES, INC. IS AN AFFIRmATIvE ACTION, EQuAL OPPORTuNITy EmPLOyER.

For current job listings, go to springbrookny.org 607-286-7171 105 Campus Drive • Oneonta, NY 13820

Thursday, October 10, 2019 CLEINMAN/From Pg. 5 from what was then our county’s Industrial Development Agency (now Otsego Now).

In the midst of the deepest recession in history, the investment allowed us to expand our business. A decade later, that support has turned into over $3.4 million in additional community investment; more jobs, tax payments, purchased local services and support for local charities. That “leg up” has delivered a direct return to the area of more than 100 times the investment!

The 87,000 graduates know the attributes of our area. Many now have businesses that can be moved and investments to be made. Based on national statistics, over 4,000 of them work from home. Why not do so in Otsego County?

I call upon our leaders to develop an organized and focused approach to the development of our knowledge economy. Let’s redirect our limited development dollars from attempting to attract heavy industry and focus on attracting entrepreneurs to bring their knowledge businesses to Otsego County.

Let’s work to attract and develop the kinds of businesses that are environmentally friendly; those that will provide opportunity for our graduating students. Let’s launch a “Come Home to Otsego” campaign targeted to those who have built their educational foundation in our midst, then left.

I’m committed to making a difference. During 2020, our small firm plans to increase our employment by 10%. We’ll do so with a focus on hiring SUNY or Hartwick graduates.

It is my intention to convince them to stay. I call on my fellow business and institutional leaders to do the same.

I ask our political leaders to work to develop and execute a focused campaign that will reconnect our institutions’ 87,000 alumni with our area.

Let’s also assist our local firms with providing employment opportunities to those 1,300 graduates who walk away… each and every year.

We can accomplish this

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lan Cleinman is the founder and CEO of Cleinman Performance Partners, an Oneonta based consultancy serving North America’s eye care industry. He chose to “come home to Otsego.”

goal through a variety of initiatives, all focused on developing the opportunity “up the hill”. Why not: • Develop Entrepreneurial Business Plan Contests backed with capital and planning

support?

• Support the student development of new retail concepts using empty retail space?

• Launch a Venture Capital Fund to support entrepreneurial and relocation initiatives?

• Provide homesteading incentives for “work from home” employees to invest in our abandoned properties?

• Execute a communication campaign to attract our alumni back to our area?

Knowledge workers today represent almost 50 percent of

Join Our Team of Dedicated and Caring Professionals Make a difference in your community by joining one of the

our economy. Otsego County is not realizing its fair share.

Let’s get focused on attracting

The Job Scene B-7

and developing knowledgebased businesses and keep our institutions’ graduates here.

OTSEGO COUNTY HOmEmakEr

$24,262 - $28,497 The Otsego County Department of Social Services is looking for dedicated individuals to join their team in serving the community.

You will be assisting families in achieving their service plan goals established with their caseworker and/or court order. You will also be providing household services in family situations for the purpose of teaching home management skills among other duties. Applications and job descriptions are available at the Otsego County Personnel Dept., 197 Main St., Cooperstown, NY 13326 or on our website www.otsegocounty. com. Last date to file: 10/16/19 EOE.

largest employers in Otsego County.

Opportunities for Otsego has been positively impacting the lives of low income individuals and families since 1966. Our hardworking and talented individuals deliver services, support and administration. Gain personal satisfaction by knowing you are helping to change lives in our community.

Our current openings:

Residential Associates (PT & Sub; works at OFO shelters)

Administrative Assistant

HEAD START POSITIONS (All FT with school breaks and summers off)

Center Director Classroom Teacher Assistant Teacher Center Associate

OFO is a family-oriented organization offering competetive wages, excellent benefits and opportunities for professional growth. For an application, submission instructions, benefit package summary and descriptions of all employment openings, visit

www.ofoinc.org/jobs

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The leader in developing innovative solutions to promote healthy lives, thriving families, and caring communities since 1966.

Experienced Warehouse Worker Sportsfield Specialties Inc., North American leader in sports construction equipment located in Delhi, NY is looking for a full-time Experienced Warehouse Worker to join our team.

RESpoNSIbIlItIES/DutIES: Pack orders in an orderly manner so they are prepared for shipping. Proper packing, labeling and tagging of the inventory in the warehouse. Identify damaged, lost or missing product and notify supervisor immediately. Basic knowledge of using and operating warehouse machinery and equipment. Efficiently complete all tasks required by departmental supervisors.

REquIRED quAlIfIcAtIoNS: SkIllS: Self-motivated. Ability to multi-task in a busy environment.

Forklift certification a plus. Ability to stand for long periods of time and be able to carry up to 80 lbs. High attention to detail.

ExPErIEncE/EducAtIon: Preferred 5 years of warehouse and shipping experience. Familiar with ErP software.

HIgH gRoWtH potENtIAl, SAlARY DoE, gREAt bENEfIt pAckAgE INcluDES but Not lImItED to: Health, dental, vision, 401(k), flexible spending, life insurance and paid time off. to apply, submit application online at www.sportsfieldspecialties.com, apply in person at 41155 State Highway 10, fax your resumé to 607-746-3107 or mail to Human resources, P.o. Box 231, delhi, nY 13753.

SpoRtSfIElD SpEcIAltIES, INc. IS AN AffIRmAtIvE ActIoN, EquAl oppoRtuNItY EmploYER.

B-8 The Job Scene

Thursday, October 10, 2019