Octal, the Oman-based integrated petrochemicals and packaging leader, has received more than 500 resumes from Omani students at a recently concluded career and training fair.

The Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) Career and Training Opportunities Fair 2009 was held at the varsity’s campus from April 13 to 15.

Octal officials have said the company will consider applicants for full-time positions and training, as the firm continues to expand.

“This was our first SQU career fair and we’re very happy with the results,” said Kamal Eisa, head of training and development, Octal.

“We were impressed by the level of interest in Octal and the calibre of students considering a career in our industry. Octal has prioritised employment opportunities for Omanis, and we’re already seeing positive results. Following our participation in the fair, we have a raft of new quality candidates to assess for future openings.”

Out of a total workforce of 342, Octal employs 93 Omanis in full-time positions and has 42 Omani graduates in training.

Most employees are based at Octal’s advanced polyester manufacturing complex in Salalah Free Zone. The facility produces PET for the packaging of food, drink, and consumer retail products.

Despite the global economic challenges, Octal is actively recruiting candidates in a variety of disciplines, including electrical and mechanical engineering, marketing, quality control, administration, human resources, and finance.

Octal is already accepting Omani graduates through a training scheme in partnership with Salalah College of Technology.

As part of the initiative, graduates study a dedicated polymers science course at the college and then complete work experience at Octal’s production facility in Salalah Free Zone. The training is the first of its type in Oman. – TradeArabia News Service