By Maggie Downs
The Cincinnati Enquirer

At a job fair Saturday at the new Great American Ball Park, about 400 hopefuls interviewed to become a part of the food service team through Sportservice, the Reds' concessionaire.

About 1,200 seasonal positions are available, from concession stand vendor to maitre d' for upscale dining facilities. Pay varies depending on the type of job.

Another round of open interviews will be held next Saturday.

"We get 15-year-olds to retirees," said Ryan Minton, fund-raising manager for Sportservice. "It's safe to say we're one of the highest-paying seasonal employers in the Tristate. Plus, this is a fun job - a ballpark atmosphere."

The jobs are particularly popular with teachers and students, which is why Sportservice tends to recruit heavily in schools.

That's where applicant Shauntae Rusher, a sophomore at Taft High School in the West End, heard about the openings. The 15-year-old is hoping to get hired as an inseat runner, someone who brings food to the fans in their seats.

"I like sports," she said.

After more than 30 years, Sportservice is the only food service provider the Reds have ever had, staying with them through Crosley Field and Riverfront Stadium/Cinergy Field. Now the pressure is on to provide high quality service at Great American Ball Park as well.

"Opening a new ballpark is a huge deal for the people of Cincinnati," Minton said. "They're going to be looking for excellent service, and we plan to provide it."

The company is searching for the perfect combination of work ethic and excellent personality in these applicants, said Nyresha Goldsby, manager of the private Diamond Club at the stadium.

If you go

What: Open interviews for Sportservice jobs, including vendors, concessions, clubs, suites and fine dining.

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday.

Where: The Machine Room bar and grill at Great American Ball Park

Information: 513-765-7579

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E-mail mdowns@enquirer.com