Volkswagen accepting applications through Nov. 15

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Volkswagen Group of America’s Chattanooga operations has started accepting applications for its production team members as of Oct. 26. Applications can be made online at VWJobsChattanooga.com through Nov. 15, 2009. Hirees will be involved in helping produce the automaker’s new mid-sized sedan. They will assemble automotive parts and operate tools and equipment in a fast-paced, high-tech production environment.

“We are looking for capable, local people who can work together in a team environment to build our cars safely and with the highest quality,” said Hans-Herbert Jagla, vice president of human resources for the Chattanooga plant. “These production team members will make up the majority of our 2,000-plus workforce here in Chattanooga and are the key to the successful launch of our new plant.”

Volkswagen says it will hire roughly 1,200 team members during the first quarter of 2010. The starting wage will be $14,50 per hour, and gradually increase to $19.50 per hour after 36 months.

“Because we anticipate there will be a great deal of interest in these positions, it’s important to note that there is no advantage to applying on the first day or in person,” said Ryan Rose, general manager of human resources for the Chattanooga facility. “All applicants who complete their application during the three-week period will be given equal consideration.”

“We continue to make progress towards our planned launch in 2011, and now we are ready and excited to start the hiring and training of our local production team members,” Jagla said.