Longs Drugs to fill hundreds of positions in Hawaii

CVS Health expects to hire hundreds of people to fill new jobs at CVS-owned Longs Drug stores across Hawaii in anticipation of the upcoming flu season, according to a report in Pacific Business News.

Approximately 100 to 150 of the permanent full- and part-time positions will be hired in the next month. Job openings include management roles, pharmacy technicians and store associates. As the need for services rises, an additional 200 to 400 roles are estimated to be filled in the coming months, according to CVS officials.

To fill positions quickly, the company will primarily use a technology-enabled hiring process that features virtual interviews and "immersive job experiences," according to the report.

“We typically hire additional colleagues for the fall flu season,” said Scott Sutton, region director of CVS Health, in a statement. “However, with the projected surge in demand for flu shots and the ongoing prevalence of Covid-19 in the community, we are estimating an even higher level of need for team members. These jobs offer Hawaii residents flexible hours, advancement opportunities and a positive environment as we work together to help our patients and customers on their path to better health.”

The job openings come at a time when Hawaii is experiencing record-high unemployment rates because of the coronavirus and subsequent state-mandated travel quarantines and shutdowns.

“The state of Hawaii is delighted to welcome this significant influx of new Longs Drugs jobs to our community,” said Rep. John Mizuno, chair of the House Health Committee, in a statement. “We appreciate CVS Health’s contribution to the economic growth and prosperity of Hawaii by providing much-needed employment to our residents as our great state continues to work through the challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic.”