Recruiting for Visitor Information Centres

Nova Scotia's Department of Tourism and Culture is now recruiting for seasonal jobs at visitor information centres throughout the province. Travel counsellors, supervisors and maintenance workers are needed between May and October. The deadline for applications is Friday, Feb. 15.

"Our visitor information centres are a key resource for tourists and industry operators alike," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism and Culture. "Staff help to ensure that visitors make the most of their time in Nova Scotia. They also share a wealth of information on all there is to see and do in our province."

More than 830,000 visitors dropped into Nova Scotia's 11 centres in 2001, a 12 per cent increase over 2000. Nearly all those surveyed found staff knowledgeable and helpful, while almost 50 per cent reported they learned about and took part in a previously unknown event or attraction. Surveys have shown that when travelers visit a centre, they tend to stay in the province longer. That means more revenue for businesses across Nova Scotia.

Suitable candidates for the positions must have leadership, communication, technical, supervisory and sales skills. Tourism-related experience is an asset, while first aid and command of a second language are required for some positions.

Previous employees report high job satisfaction. Many have written to say they thoroughly enjoyed their time at the centres and gained a greater appreciation of the province.

Job descriptions and application forms are available at local employment centres, Nova Scotia Business Service Centres, Access Nova Scotia Centres and university and community college employment centres. They are also available on the department's Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/dtc . Tourism and Culture can also be contacted at 902-424-3282 or by mail at P. O. Box 456, Halifax, B3J 2R5. More information is also available by e-mail, at [email protected] .

Visitor Information Centres are located in Amherst, Digby, Halifax, Halifax International Airport, Peggy's Cove, Pictou, Port Hastings, Yarmouth and in Maine.

Nova Scotia's tourism industry revenues are estimated at over $1.2 billion, which translates into jobs for some 34,000 Nova Scotians. Tourism is also a significant export industry, with more than half of the money generated coming from outside the province.