Several companies in American Samoa are looking to tap into Samoa’s labour market to help fill more than 100 positions ranging from seafarers, equipment operators and tradesmen.

The residents of Falelatai and Samatau will be given first preference in the job openings according to Pa’u Dr. Roy Ausage, says the Faatuatua i Le Atua Samoa Ua Tasi (F.A.S.T.) party’s candidate for Falelatai and Samatau.

Job opportunities have been extended to Samatau and Falelatai residents and others since 2000, he said in response to Samoa Observer queries.

“The slots are offered first to Samatau and Falelatai residents as this program is ongoing and it is much easier to traffic and monitor participants,” Pa’u said. 

“The idea of collective groups from a village or districts works well in terms of avoiding conflicts that are subject to disciplinary measures.

“We have at least 100 positions [opening at] fish at StarKist Samoa (S.K.S.) working for our fish unloading company. We also have slots for crew members, deck bosses, navigators, sea captains for fishing boats such as albacore boats and tuna fishing purse seiners,” Pa’u said.

Additional employment opportunities with StarKist will be revealed after talks with the tuna cannery have been finalised.

Pa’u said he plans to establish a local organisation to handle hiring for the overseas opportunities. 

“[StarKist] Samoa also has numerous opportunities which will be revealed once discussions with [company] leadership and management are finalised,”  he said. 

“I will be setting up a recruitment company in Samoa.”

He listed four companies in search of Samoan labour, including: Ausage & Associates Construction, Silva Group American Samoa, H & H Corporation and P.J. Corporation. 

Pa’u said the companies will sponsor and accommodate each worker.

“Other positions available are for carpenters, electricians, plumbers, welders, mechanics,” he said.

“We also have opportunities for heavy equipment operators, truck drivers. 

“Our line of companies will sponsor everyone to work in American Samoa and we will accommodate everyone to comply with American Samoa immigration laws for sponsored skilled workers to reside with sponsors.”

Pa’u promised to provide details of job opportunities for up to 40 or 50 fruit pickers in New Zealand .

There is no limit on age due to laws on equal employment opportunities but recruiters will select the “best fit” for the position and the scope of work for each position, Pa’u said.

“For example, fish unloading is for the young, strong vibrant males. However, females are welcome to apply for other positions within [StarKirst] such as fish cleaners,” he noted.

Interested parties may contact Pa’u Roy Ausage at (685) 710-4934.