Woollen mill looks for more employees

by Ruby Arsenault

MacAusland’s Woollen Mills Ltd., located in Bloomfield PEI, is famous for its high-quality woolen blankets, which are sold and shipped all over the world. Monica MacAusland is the sixth-generation owner/operator of the business, and she is very pleased with the demand for their products. “At the present time there is a waiting period of several months when you place an order.

“To meet the demand for our products, we often seek to hire staff,” says Monica. “During the pandemic, orders increased, and tons of wool were delivered from across Canada. We hired two new staff members because we needed extra hands to get the job done.”

Rich in history, this western PEI business is one of the Island’s oldest. It started as a sawmill and gristmill back in 1870 and is now the only mill in Atlantic Canada still producing traditional blankets of 100 percent virgin wool. The mill still uses old-fashioned machinery to produce a top-quality product woven with old-fashioned charm.

Hiring needs

The company is looking to hire Machine Operators to operate various equipment in the processing line. Many positions require standing for long periods of time. “Attention to detail and accuracy is a must as we want to ensure each and every product comes out perfect for our customers,” says Monica.

“We currently have 10 employees and we are like a little family here. We start the day off in our lunchroom with a morning chat, a round of cards, and coffee. I like to provide a laid-back work environment and I pride myself in carrying on this traditional family business.”

Currently, there are nine full-time General Mill Labourers. New hires start at this entry-level position and work their way up to specific areas or tasks.

“The main job requirement is to not be scared of hard work,” says Monica. “Potential applicants need to want full-time regular hours Monday to Friday.”

To apply for a position as a General Mill Labourer, email [email protected].

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, they are asking applicants not to drop off resumés in person.

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Two employees share their stories

Kelly A’Hearn began working at MacAusland’s Woollen Mills in January 2017. “My present position is as a blanket finisher, and I like my job. When a cut of 17 blankets comes up to my department, we cut them into queen, double or throw size. Then I hem and put labels on the new items and get them ready for shipping.

“I loved meeting and talking to the tourists who dropped in prior to the pandemic, but at present we offer only curb side pick-up.

“What I like about my job is that it is stress free, Monday to Friday. It is never an issue if you need time off for a medical or dentist appointment. I have an awesome boss, and I mostly work alone in my room. The pay is good, and vacation time and benefits are offered as well. I never wish I didn’t have to go to work.”

Christina Green began working at the Mill in April 2016. “My present title is weaver, and I like my job. I run the looms, make blankets, tie in warps, make custom patterns, and fill orders.

“What I like about my job is that I work alone. I like when we do limited edition products – they are all full of colour. Anytime I get a request for a fun new pattern, I love and enjoy the creativity and the end results.

“I work for an excellent employer who respects and appreciates their staff and allows me the hours and flexibility I require.”

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Both Kelly and Christina were active clients of the Tignish Employment Resource Centre. I helped both to apply to MacAusland’s Woollen Mills because I knew they would be valuable employees to an outstanding local employer. I am very proud of my relationship with this sixth-generation Island business. I recently assisted in the hiring of more staff and had the opportunity to spend some time with Monica and tour the facility.

Anyone wanting to have their resumé placed on a list for future positions may contact:

Ruby Arsenault, Tignish Employment Resource Centre
211 Phillip Street, Tignish PE
902-882-2498 Email: [email protected] or search Tignish ER Centre on Facebook