American Fork company looks to hire Afghan refugees
Oct 5, 2021, 6:00 AM | Updated: 4:39 pm
Exterior of Xlear headquarters in American Fork, Utah (courtesy of Xlear, Inc.)
(courtesy of Xlear, Inc.)
AMERICAN FORK — Xlear, the maker of nasal- and oral-hygiene products, is hoping to hire 10 or more Afghan refugees who are being resettled in Utah.
Xlear
Pronounced like “clear” but spelled with an “x,” Xlear makes products to help clear out the sinuses and mouth. It also makes other xylitol-based products. Xylitol is a naturally occurring alcohol found in most plants.
Not only is Xlear growing, but it is also experiencing an unprecedented demand for its products.
“We’ve seen astronomical growth,” said Shad Slaughter, vice president of operations for Xlear. “[We] really could open up another entire shift if we had access to the right people.”
That demand is why the company hopes to hire 10 or more Afghan refugees once they arrive in state.
“We’re looking to fill positions immediately. They’re entry-level manufacturing positions, but they’re good-paying to start at around $15 or $16 an hour,” Slaughter explained.
He said Xlear is also very clear about the opportunities available to employees. Even if a worker feels they can grow further with another company, Slaughter said they want to teach valuable job skills for them to succeed.
Experience with those fleeing dangerous situations
Xlear is no stranger to bringing on new employees who have escaped tough situations in other countries.
“These people that are coming from desperate situations, or making big changes, are very eager to work and end up being very strong, valuable employees,” Slaughter said.
In fact, he said as much as 40% of the production staff do not speak English as a first language. However, he said that is not a problem.
“We have technology and systems in place where pretty much any language we can accommodate,” said Slaughter.
According to Slaughter, Xlear has offered optional on-site ESL (English as a Second Language) classes to interested employees for about half a year.
“I’m really excited that our community embraces refugees and these groups,” he said. “Hopefully, we’re able to offer good opportunities and these people can come over and start their life in the U.S and in Utah and really thrive.”
Xlear plans to meet later this week with Catholic Community Services, the International Rescue Committee and other groups charged with resettling refugees.
