MGM International is ready to open the .4 billion MGM National Harbor Casino Resort, Maryland on December 8. Meanwhile it is finishing up recruiting efforts this month that will place about 4,000 employees while construction workers put finishing touches on the casino. It has already hired 3,800 workers.
The resort, which from its Prince George’s County location, has distant views of Washington D.C. and the Capitol, might also be good for the economy of the region and produce much needed middle class jobs. The average annual full-time wage is about $60,000, with competitive health and benefits packages.
MGM has committed to initially hiring 40 percent of its workers from Prince George’s County and eventually reaching 50 percent.
The opening of the mega-resort is considered likely to negatively affect nearby casinos, such as Maryland Live. Some of its workers have already defected to MGM and better wages.
One study predicts that Maryland Live will see its revenues fall by 16 percent, although it will keep its spot as the largest casino in the area.
James C. Dinegar, president and chief executive of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, told the Washington Post: “There’s no real 24-hour industry in Washington. When this is open and operating, it is going to need cashiers, dealers, waitresses and waiters, and bartenders at all the shifts. It is a different world in casinos.”
The casino resort will have a 24-story hotel, day spa, 3,000-seat concert hall and a myriad of dining venues. The gaming floor will have 3,600 slots and 140 gaming tables. Visitors will be greeted by an 18-foot tall MGM lion.
