Chapter 252: Job Opportunities
It was about the coal mine in Daqi Mountain.
Upon hearing this, Ning Xiyue and Ning Qingyuan immediately paused mid-bite, attentively watching Mayor Huang as he spoke.
“The coal mine discovered on Daqi Mountain is expected to officially begin operations after the ice and snow fully melt in early spring. This project is significant for our town and even for the entire Songyuan City in Da’an County — it’s currently the most important undertaking.”
Mayor Huang became excited at this point, putting down his chopsticks and speaking passionately, full of expectations for a bright future.
“Not looking too far ahead, just for our town: once the coal mine is operational, it will elevate Yongchuan Commune, improving life for everyone here. The two teams closest to it will also benefit greatly.”
He glanced at Ning Xiyue and Ning Qingyuan, finally resting his gaze on Ning Qingyuan as he tapped the table with his fingers:
“There’s a great opportunity now. I personally think you, Qingyuan, should try for it — go ahead and sign up.”
He knew Ning Xiyue, being the barefoot doctor of the team, didn’t need this, but Ning Qingyuan could greatly benefit. It was only natural to lend a helping hand.
Inside, the siblings were thrilled. Though they had originally come with this purpose in mind, it had been more of a distant plan — mainly networking and waiting for the right opportunity — they hadn’t expected it to come so soon.
And they hadn’t done anything extra; Mayor Huang brought it up voluntarily.
These past two months hadn’t been in vain — it was worth it.
Ning Xiyue pretended to be curious and waited for Mayor Huang to continue.
Ning Qingyuan asked, intrigued: “Oh? Please tell us more.”
Mayor Huang looked at them seriously:
“Because the mine will soon begin operations and it’s within our commune, the higher authorities have decided to recruit a large number of mining and logistics personnel. Our commune has the largest quota and priority in hiring.
Especially your nearby teams: being familiar with the area and with housing available, you’ll be among the first to be hired. Importantly, it’s not limited to local residents — sent-down youth in the area are also eligible. Qingyuan, you could try for a logistics position.”
This explosive news immediately surprised Ning Xiyue and Ning Qingyuan.
If word of mass recruitment got out, the entire commune would be buzzing. Right now, jobs were scarce; vacancies were almost nonexistent.
Everyone was eager to earn money. Though work in the mine was tough, it was nothing compared to going hungry or being cold. The team members were not afraid of hardship — if there was money to be made, they all wanted in.
Ning Xiyue could easily imagine the excitement once news of mass recruitment spread. Being the closest team, they would certainly be at the center of the buzz.
Ning Qingyuan knew this opportunity was right in front of him and resolved to seize it, aiming for a logistics role. “Brother Huang, when can we sign up? Where do we go? What should we prepare?”
“Wait a moment,” said Mayor Huang.
He got up, took his briefcase, and handed Ning Qingyuan and Ning Xiyue a copy of a document each.
“This is the notice I’m about to issue. Tomorrow, all team leaders will come to the commune for a meeting to discuss this. You can take a look first and return it to me after reading.”
Ning Xiyue and Ning Qingyuan exchanged a glance, then took the documents and began reading.
Ning Xiyue noticed that the sign-up started the day after tomorrow and ended ten days later. Both the registration and interview would be at the commune, and the selection process would start the day after registration closed.
Mining positions required only one round of interviews and had the largest number of openings.
Most logistics positions required both a written test and interview, though some, like cooks, only needed an interview.
She focused on the logistics roles to help her brother strategize and see which positions would suit him.
Among logistics roles, the majority were cooks — a good backup option if nothing else worked. Three meals a day would be busy but leave free time, plus good food.
Scrolling down, Ning Xiyue found an ideal position: a clerk for warehouse management. Duties included organizing materials, recording inventory in and out, and notifying the procurement staff when supplies were low. A dedicated purchaser handled the rest — nothing else to worry about.
This warehouse clerk job was not only easy, but it also left plenty of free time. Her brother could read and study, making it the perfect choice.
She skimmed through the remaining positions but saw nothing better.
Ning Xiyue pointed the position out to Ning Qingyuan, and they both agreed. The role required a high school education, which he met, making it their top choice.
Mayor Huang noticed their interest and, after sipping his soup, asked: “Have you found any positions you like, Qingyuan?”
Ning Xiyue returned her copy of the document with a smile, saying nothing.
Ning Qingyuan handed his over and said: “All the positions are good, but I really like the warehouse clerk role. I plan to sign up and give it a try, leaving no regrets.”
“I think this position suits you well. Go for it,” Mayor Huang said, smiling as he glanced at the document.
He placed both documents back in his briefcase and took out a blank form, handing it to Ning Qingyuan.
“Here’s the registration form. Fill it out after lunch and give it to me. I’ll submit it for you, so you won’t need to make another trip.”
