Sweetwater, a leading music retailer based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, teams up with Blue Jacket, Inc. for a job fair on October 15, 2025, to hire over 100 seasonal workers. This event aims to meet the rush of holiday orders at the company’s distribution center, giving locals a chance to join a growing team right in their community.
Event Details and Schedule
The job fair takes place at Blue Jacket’s headquarters at 2826 South Calhoun Street in Fort Wayne. It runs in two sessions: from 9 a.m. to noon and then from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15. This setup lets more people attend without missing work or school.
Sweetwater plans to fill roles at its distribution center on 5501 US 30 West. These jobs focus on picking, packing, and shipping musical instruments and gear to customers across the country. The company expects a big surge in orders as the holiday season kicks off, much like past years when similar events drew hundreds of applicants.
Local leaders praise this move as a boost for the area’s economy. Fort Wayne has seen steady job growth in logistics and retail, and events like this help keep talent local.
Partnership Boosts Local Hiring
Blue Jacket, Inc. works to help adults facing employment barriers, such as disabilities, find meaningful work. Their partnership with Sweetwater shows a commitment to inclusive hiring practices. “This hiring event will help place dozens of individuals into the workforce and empower them as they build meaningful careers in our local community,” said Tony Hudson, CEO of Blue Jacket.
Sweetwater values this collaboration as part of its roots in Northeast Indiana. The company started in Fort Wayne over 40 years ago and now employs thousands. By working with groups like Blue Jacket, they open doors for underrepresented workers. Recent trends show more businesses in the region partnering for community jobs, following a rise in seasonal demand after the pandemic recovery.
This is not the first time Sweetwater hosts such events. In past holidays, they added similar positions, and many seasonal hires moved to full-time roles. It ties into broader efforts in Indiana to support workforce development amid a tight labor market.
What Positions Are Available and Pay Details
Candidates can expect open interviews and on-the-spot hiring for various shifts. Roles include warehouse associates who handle everything from order fulfillment to quality checks. No prior experience is needed, but a positive attitude and reliability matter most.
Pay starts at $15 per hour and goes up to $17.50 based on the shift. Evening and weekend options often pay more to attract flexible workers. Here’s a quick look at potential shifts:
| Shift Type | Hours | Starting Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Day Shift | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | $15/hour |
| Evening Shift | 3 p.m. – 11 p.m. | $16.50/hour |
| Weekend Shift | Varies | Up to $17.50/hour |
This table shows how Sweetwater rewards different schedules. Many past employees note the fast pace but rewarding team environment.
- Access to on-site perks like a free medical clinic with a doctor and nurse.
- Fitness center, personal trainer, and even a salon and spa for staff.
- DailyPay option to get earnings before payday.
- Chances for full-time promotion after the season.
These benefits make the jobs appealing for those seeking quick entry into a stable company.
Why Work at Sweetwater This Holiday Season
The holidays bring excitement to Sweetwater’s operations, with music gear flying out the door for gifts and setups. “The holidays are very exciting at Sweetwater, and we’re looking for individuals ready to take on a new challenge with us,” said Megan Deal, Senior Director of Human Resources for Distribution Center Operations.
Fort Wayne’s job market is competitive, but Sweetwater stands out for its culture. Reviews from workers highlight the fun atmosphere, especially for music lovers. The company hosts events and celebrates achievements, which helps during busy times. In a recent survey of local employers, logistics firms like this one reported high retention when offering growth paths.
This fair comes at a good time, as Indiana’s unemployment rate hovers around 3.5 percent. It connects to national trends where retailers ramp up hiring for Black Friday and beyond. For job seekers, it’s a practical way to earn extra cash while building skills in a booming industry.
How to Prepare and Next Steps
Bring a resume, ID, and be ready for interviews. Dress comfortably for a warehouse setting, and arrive early to chat with recruiters. Online applications are also open for those who can’t attend.
To apply, visit Sweetwater’s careers page or stop by the event. Prepare by reviewing basic warehouse tasks, as they may ask about teamwork. This opportunity solves immediate needs for holiday income and offers long-term potential in Fort Wayne’s growing scene.
Share your thoughts on this job fair in the comments below. Have you worked seasonal jobs before? Tell us and spread the word to friends looking for work.
