More than 1,600 apply to haul trash in case of strike

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.seattlepi.com/local/417837_trash03.html

Saturday, April 3, 2010

More than 1,600 people have applied to work as replacement drivers for Waste Management in case of a strike by the Teamsters, a company spokesperson said Saturday.

"We're preparing to hire replacements in the event of a prolonged strike. It's part of our contingency planning," said Jackie Lang, spokeswoman for Waste Management.

The company submitted what it calls its "best, last, final offer" to union garbage truck drivers represented by Teamsters Local 174, but the offer was rejected Friday by the union.

Nearly 1 million customers in King and Snohomish counties would be affected if the union votes to strike.

But Lang said there are plenty of qualified people out there who are willing to fill in if it comes to that.

"The response to our ads was very strong," she said. "We had more than 1,600 people apply online, and today we're interviewing the best 100 out of those applicants."

FULL story at link.

[Yeahyeah]

1. When I hear of Waste Management I hear the theme from The Godfather in my head.

[Sherman A1]

2. Not surprising at all

that they would have a good turn out of applicants given the economy, but one wonders just how well the scabs will do if push comes to shove and there is a strike.

I recall the folks that replaced us (St. Louis Grocery 2003) were not exactly the cream of the crop and more than a few at my particular location had a few issues with some basic policies such as payment for goods and such, but my memory might be faulty.

[SocialistLez]

3. Let's hope the replacements suck

and the company will meet the union's demands.

I just find this story funny considering Waste Management was featured on that "Undercover Boss" show.

[tech9413]

4. I think the telling fact is 1600 applied for 150 jobs

You have to know that you're not going to get a good deal with odds like that.

[paulsby]

5. speaking of applicants for job

i remember when i applied for amherst (ma) PD back in the day, they had 40+ applicants for one position