Bass Pro Shops posts 3 job openings for Portage store

PORTAGE | Bass Pro Shops has expanded its search for workers for its proposed store in Portage.

The Springfield, Mo.-based chain posted notice on its Web site for a general manager, boat manager and business/sales manager of a Tracker Marine Boat Center planned for inside the Northwest Indiana store.

In early December, the company began a search for the store's general manager.

Bass Pro Shops spokesman Larry Whitely said is seeking local talent to fill the open positions.

"We look for local folks with a passion for the outdoors," Whitely said. "They tend to give better customer service."

Bass Pro Shops plans a 130,000-square-foot mega store on 15.5 acres at Ameriplex at the Port in Portage.

A $17.5 million economic incentive package to help bring the store to Portage is making its way through city governing bodies. Construction of the store is expected to create 650 jobs, while the store is expected to employ about 320 workers.

Bass Pro has announced the store will open Nov. 2 .

The outdoor sporting goods retailer announced plans in late October to build one of its trademark sports-lovers destination stores at the commercial/industrial complex, north of the Interstate 94/Indiana 249 intersection.

Plans are for the store to be one of just a few in the Bass Pro Shops chain to feature a marina where customers can try out the company's signature line of fishing boats. It also will have an outpost where shoppers can buy food, gasoline and supplies before heading outdoors.

The company owns the Tracker boat line and carries the boats in almost all its 33 locations.