It looks like Santa won't be the only new employee that Macy's adds this holiday.
The retailer announced Monday it will hire about 78,000 workers nationwide for the 2011 holiday season. That's a 4 percent increase from last year's holiday hiring.
The Chicago area is home to 18 Macy's stores, three Bloomingdale's stores and a Home Store.
Macy's Inc. President Terry J. Lundgen said in a statement the company is able to hire more people "given the continued sales growth in our business, both in-store and online."
Lundgen admits while most jobs are part-time, seasonal help could lead to year-round work.
Macy's and Bloomingdale's stores will hire for positions at call centers, distribution centers and online fulfillment centers. Many positions require individuals to work evenings, weekends and overnight.
Beginning next week, applicants can apply online at www.macysJOBS.com or www.bloomingdaleJOBS.com.
