Sitel has filled its first three classes for potential employees after announcing last week the need to hire 120 new employees in the next three weeks.

Brandy Miller, site manager, said Monday that the company has scheduled six 20-person training classes, with the first two beginning that morning.

“We have eight partner companies at Sitel, but we’re hiring right now for the newest one,” Miller said. “However, there is no shortage of opportunities here. I think there is a new (training class) happening each week.”

Of the 120 temporary hires, 75 slots will be converted into permanent positions. All new employees start at $7.50 an hour. Fulltime permanent positions are eligible for wage increases at 90 and 180 days, and at one year of employment.

The new hires will provide inbound customer service support for a national retail chain client, Miller said. She said the company is searching for people with good communication skills and basic computer skills.

“There’s this misconception that you need to be a computer expert to work at Sitel,” she said. “That’s not true. If you can use home computer to surf the web or connect with friends and type with basic typing skills, then we can teach you everything else you need to know.”

Aside from communication skills, potential employees should be dependable with a positive attitude, she said.

“We really need people who are dependable and reliable and who can do their duties with minimal supervision,” she said. “We’ll be here, side-by-side to assist, but we need people who can be accountable.”

A background check and drug test is required for all new hires, and there are ample opportunities for advancement, she said.

“I started working here, answering the phones, and that’s what I prefer for the majority of my management to do as well,” Miller said. “Once a month, we have a coach/trainer job preview and that gives people an opportunity to learn more about management positions available and what the steps are to go down that career path.”

There are flexible schedules available, as well, she said.

“The schedules depend on the client, and is driven by call volume and arrival patterns,” she said. “With some partners, the calls come in during the day only, and some after work. We have a unique situation where we have a lot more day hours available, but we still look for those who are most flexible in their schedules.

“If you can do a Saturday or Sunday in a week or an evening schedule, then you’ll have more opportunity to have choice of projects than most, but with that said, we have something for everyone,” she said.

Candidates may apply in-person from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, or online in Sitel’s “Careers” section at www.sitel.com.