AUSTIN, TX — HEB — the state's dominant grocer with some 350 stores throughout Texas and the northeast portion of Mexico — is offering short-term job as it copes with an increased influx of shoppers seeking to stock up on rations amid the new coronavirus threat.

Overnight, the company posted a number of temporary job slots that need filling as stores work feverishly to stock shelves ahead of the now-daily rush for supplies. Stockers for both day and night shifts, baggers, customer service assistance and checkers are needed in the short term in Austin, Houston and San Antonio, according to the listings. Help also is needed in the chain's stores in the northern and western parts of the state, as reflected in the job portal. The grocery chain also is hiring at its Joe V's Smart Shop locations, the website indicates.

According to the website, the positions could last up to 60 days but offer permanant employment potential. Pay rates range run the gamut: $9.50 per hour for customer service assistants or baggers, $15 an hour for overnight stockers and $13.50 for daytime stockers and $13.50 for checkers, as indicated on the job portal. Related stories:

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Coronavirus: HEB Sets Limits On Purchases Of Basic Supplies "Texans rely on HEB in times of need, and we're committed to serving our customers through every challenge," company officials wrote on the HEB Careers Facebook page. "We're looking for some short-term support for our stores! With your help, our customers can get what they need for their families while receiving the excellent customer service they are accustomed to."

HEB officials provided a link for available applicants accessible by clicking here.