Last year, 19,000 people applied. The same number is expected this year.
For some it is the first job interview they have ever experienced. They're all hoping for summer work and a paycheck during their summer break.
"I need a job and my mom has a lot of kids and I'm trying to do for myself," said Aubriana Woodward, job applicant.
The teenagers are finding some competition in the job market this year from adults. With unemployment in the state running at more than 11 percent summer jobs at Six Flags Great America are looking more attractive.
Hosephina Thomas, 40, was laid off last year and her unemployment is close to running out. She just wants to work.
"Anything that will bring a check," said Thomas.
The 34-year-old theme park is the area's largest seasonal employer. This year they have already begun work to add one of the latest attractions familiar to many Chicagoans. The Little Dipper ride from Kiddieland which closed last year is being reassembled here. Attractions like that support the 3,200 employees they hire every summer. Last year nearly 20,000 people applied for those jobs waiting in long lines. This year they've changed the process to limit the lines. But the number of applicants will be about the same.
"I think in an economy like we're in people are starting to look at different avenues for different jobs and they're seeing that here at Six Flags Great America we have a wide variety of skill sets," said Jennifer Savage, Six Flags spokesperson The process is quick. From application to interview to job offer it usually takes only about an hour and a half.
The park opens this year April 24. For the first few weeks it will be weekends only. And if you stay through the entire season, the job will last about six months.
