As we write this, it’s a big day at the construction site! Refrigeration units arrived today and workers are installing them. Soon, they’ll hold the things you love like fresh produce, deli food, cheese and craft beer.

You’ve probably noticed that the exterior of our new co-op is receiving finishing touches. On the inside, a lot is happening! The basic interior infrastructure is in – wall framing, plumbing and electrical, and painting are complete. All of our refrigeration displays showed up and lighting is going in too. The building should get energized by Pacific Power this week!

The last week of October all of our equipment and furniture arrives. It will be a very busy couple weeks installing all of our kitchen equipment, office furniture, and store shelving. The entire Bogh Electric company staff will be working on our project to bring us to the finish line on time. Terry’s Plumbing and P&L Johnson have done an outstanding job keeping us on schedule too.

By mid-November we’ll be initiating our merchandising and stocking non-perishable products. At the same time, more finishing touches will be happening as we lead up to our December soft-opening.

We can’t wait to share our new co-op with you!

We’re in the final stages of constructing an expanded new store and are gearing up to nearly double our workforce. We will host a job fair in late October to hire employees for the new store, which is projected to open mid-December. We are recruiting for entry and mid-level positions in our grocery, deli and front-end departments.

The co-op offers competitive wages starting at $13 an hour with an average wage of $17. Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance, paid time off, a store discount and opportunities for advancement.

“One way the co-op sets itself apart is by providing outstanding customer service and that starts with our employees; therefore, we are committed to creating a workplace that is constantly improving” General Manager Matt Stanley said.

The job fair happens Wednesday, October 30 at the Fort George Lovell Showroom at 14^th and Duane Street in Astoria (near our current location). There will be two sessions; at 10 a.m.–2 p.m. and 4–7 p.m.

Anyone interested in a job should bring a current resume. Department managers will be on site to conduct interviews for qualified candidates as time allows. To apply early, candidates should send a short statement of interest and resume to [email protected] or pick up an application at the store or online at www.astoria.coop.

Coffee, hot apple cider, and cookies will be served and all job-seekers who stop by will get a free co-op tote bag. For more information, contact Human Resources Manager, Mari-Anna Redburn at [email protected].

The co-op currently has 30 employees and plans to have 55 when the new store opens.

Click here to see current job openings.