A SPECIAL REPORT: HOLIDAY HIRING

Santa’s Helpers

It’s the time of year when companies begin to boost the payroll in preparation for the holiday rush. Employers start gearing up in late September or early October, said Sue Foigelman, an area manager for Manpower Inc. The agency’s most recent survey shows that 43% of Valley-based employers plan to add jobs during the fourth quarter--that’s higher than the state and Southland average.

Shiploads of Gifts

Los Angeles, routinely one of the busiest regions for package-delivery services, picks up the pace as the holidays approach. FedEx, which has a distribution center in Van Nuys, above, hires more than 100 workers for the L.A. area to handle all of those fruitcakes.

More Jobs in Store

With more than 7,000 retailers in the Valley, chances are there’s a help-wanted sign at a store near you. Annette Bethers, marketing director at the Valley’s largest mall, the Northridge Fashion Center, said her 150 merchants increase hiring by up to 25% for the holidays.

Money in the Bank

Listings in area job banks, such as the Job Placement Center at Pierce College, also are starting to pick up. The services are free to area residents. To reach the Pierce College center, call (818) 719-6454. L.A. Valley’s Job Resource Center can be reached at (818) 947-2333.