Feb. 24, 2010--WESTERLY -- In a state with the third highest unemployment in the country, the new Ocean House in Watch Hill has announced that it will soon hire 160 employees in a wide range of positions.

The luxury oceanfront resort hotel, which is slated to open in mid May, will hold a job fair March 16 and 23 at the Westerly Armory on Dixon Street.

There are openings in all areas of the hotel including guest services, housekeeping, spa, maintenance, restaurant, culinary, catering and banquets. The hotel, which will be open year-round, will be hiring full-time, part-time and seasonal staff.

Mike London, a spokesman for the hotel, said this week that more than 1,000 people are expected to attend.

"We are seeking individuals who hold themselves to the highest standards and we are eager to provide the level of personalized service that will be the hallmark of the Ocean House," said Daniel Hostettler, the hotel's managing director.

Alice Brennan, director of associate relations and recruiting, said candidates do not necessarily need hotel experience.

"We believe in hiring on behavior and training on skill," she said.

The new Ocean House cost $140 million to build and is a replica of the stately Victorian era hotel that was built just after the Civil War and served guests until it was torn down in the winter of 2005-06. The new hotel, while having modern amenities, uses many materials and the design of the old hotel.

The new resort has 49 guest rooms and 23 private residences. There is casual and fine dining, a 12,000-square-foot spa and more than 10,000 square feet of event space.

The hotel is a member of Preferred Boutiqueä, the elite collection of intimate hotels and resorts launched in 2005 by Preferred Hotel Group.

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