BY RYN HERRMANN
Director
Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce

You might have noticed that the lack of workers for our local restaurants seemed to have hit a crisis level last week. The labor shortage is forcing some of the local restaurants to change their hours, and even close some days of the week. Blue Window Bistro was closed last Thursday and Friday due to a staffing shortage. The Pajarito Brewpub & Grill is now closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and unable to accommodate catering events. Bob’s Bodacious BBQ had to reduce their hours. Ruby K’s Bagel Café was closed on Sunday after being swamped during the Fair and Rodeo downtown on Saturday. Even McDonald’s announced last week that until further notice they can only operate as a drive-thru, as they don’t have enough staff for the indoor counter.

While workforce shortages are currently a national issue, this problem is not new to Los Alamos. But with many workers recently departing to head back to college, several of our restaurants and other businesses are desperately looking to hire. In speaking with restaurant owners, some mentioned that many parents don’t want their teens (which often make up our part-time workforce) dealing with the public due to the uptick in COVID cases. 

The federal stimulus money and COVID-related unemployment benefits also appear to be playing a part in the workforce shortage, with people not needing to take some entry level jobs. With the federal unemployment programs set to expire Sept. 4, 2021, local restaurant owners are hoping workers will soon be looking for work.

Attached is a list of just a few local restaurants that are currently hiring. Please share this with anyone you might know who is looking for work, or who might consider a new position or career.

In the interim, please be patient with the local restaurant staff and possibly be prepared to wait a little longer than normal. It is more important than ever to support our local restaurants during these turbulent times!

Thank you, Los Alamos!