Birmingham - Right now, Alabama's unemployment rate is at a four year high, hitting 5.3 percent this month. But instead of large-scale layoffs, some local stores will still jingle holiday jobs. Retail experts are expecting a rise in holiday sales this year and for some stores, more sales means more sales staff.

Attention cashiers, sales floor workers and stock people, the red bullseye retail giant is looking for you.

"People with a great attitude and who are fast, fun and friendly. We'll train you in all the things that you need to know," says Joell Whitmer, Target employee.

Birmingham's Target, off Highway 280, wants to add 50 to 100 people this season while the three month-old Target in Bessemer plans to strengthen its staff by 50. 

" With being a new store, we want to do the best we possibly can and get the best sales we can," says Whitmer. 

Across town in Hoover, Best Buy has already put 20 new people in blue polos, and depending on business, they could add 20 more. 

"We're looking for great attitudes. People that are able to handle a very dynamic environment," says Peter Branscomb, Best Buy Manager.  

They're hiring in all departments: service, sales and support.

"We're optimistic, but certainly realistic. We're not sure what the holidays are going to bring," says Branscomb. 

But if they bring big crowds, both stores will be ready.


You can apply in person at any Target or Best Buy store or you can fill out an application online on the store's website.