More than 200 people packed into The Ameristar Employment Center Saturday seeking more than 50 positions with one of Vicksburg’s largest employers.

The parking lot outside the center was packed as applicants waited in standing room only for interviews.

Job seekers ranged from experienced to the never-before employed as they applied and interviewed for jobs in a variety of casino and hotel positions.

“This is my first time to get out and look for a job,” said 18-year-old Chadderick Ross, who was leaned up against one of four white columns inside the employment center.

Ross was among the best dressed of those applying for jobs, wearing a white long-sleeved shirt, a black tie, black slacks and recently shined shoes.

“I hope it helps,” said Ross who was seeking a steward or cashier position.

For Anbree Buchanan, the job fair was the latest stop in her search for employment since moving back to Vicksburg.

“I’ve probably been back two weeks, and nobody else has called back yet,” Buchanan said. “I’ve got good work history, but it’s just hard to find a job here.”

Past fairs to attract new hires have drawn more than 150 people to Vicksburg’s largest casino. The last job fair for the casino and hotel was in March, Ameristar Vice President and General Manager Gerard Hardy said.

“We thought it was a good time in the summer. A lot of people are looking for employment,” he said. “Ameristar is excited to be able to have the job fair today.”

Hardy said hotel and casino officials were pleased with the large turnout of job seekers.

“I think the number of people that have turned out here today is an indication of what people think of Ameristar as a potential employer,” he said.

The casino employed 749 people, including hotel workers, according to the Mississippi Gaming Commission data through March 31, 2015.

Ameristar is the seventh largest casino out of Mississippi’s 28 casinos.

The casino extends over 70,000 square feet and over 1,500 slot machines, 27 table games and 10 poker tables. The Bottleneck Blues Bar offers entertainment in a Delta-style blues club environment. The property also offers a 149-room deluxe hotel and a variety of dining choices, including Bourbon’s BBQ and Steakhouse, Bella’s Bakery and Cafe and the Heritage Buffet.