We've got a few positions open and are having trouble finding dependable people to work for us. My father and I own a commercial exterior maintenance company (parking lot/street sweeping, landscaping, pressure washing) and are in a position of good growth- to the point where Dad has the opportunity to stop working IN the business and go to work ON the business. We've put out ads looking for experienced landscape workers and equipment drivers, but haven't found anyone that fits into our company. Obviously plenty of folks are applying, but don't have any experience (just because someone mows their own yard doesn't mean they can mow commercially), can't pass a drug test, or don't have a valid license...etc.

Because we are still a small company with direct involvement in the day to day operations, we expect a higher quality of work, but on the flip side, start our pay scale much higher than others in our industry. I truly believe that you get what you pay for!

Are our standards too high? I understand that the nature of our work isn't really conducive to attracting "top talent" per say, but I know I'm not the only one in Abilene who has common sense and doesn't want to sit behind a desk all day.

Sorry for the rant. But seriously, do you guys know anyone looking for a job who is able to think for themselves and take personal pride in the work they do?

I know you aren't in Midland, but you are still in the oil field. I don't know what kind of wages you are offering, but in Midland you have people starting in the oil field at the $18-20 range with a possible long term career. The good ones (able to pass drug test, etc.) are taking those jobs. I know kids turning 16 having to set appointments 3weeks out at the DPS to get thier drivers liscense due to the overflow of people trying to get their CDLs for the oil field. When drilling slows down, you will have a pool of good people available.

Very true. In Abilene, we are also competing with the wind farms too...we had a position open for over 3 months in Graham because every qualified person had a job. We didn't receive a single application until the new wind farms up that way had hired to their capacity.