Those hunting for summer jobs in Edmonton are in for some stiff competition.

When the City of Edmonton hosted a summer job fair Friday afternoon, the turnout was twice what the city was expecting.

More than 800 people lined up for work — and they weren't just the usual high school and college students. Adults like Brenda Campbell came with resume in hand.

"[It's] tough, tough, tough. I mean, look around. All these people and all for these jobs being offered now. This is crazy but you got to do what you got to do," Campbell said.

"I've been working for the casino for seven years and they are going to be laying off people, so I'm thinking I'm going to be one. You know, I want to make sure I have employment money coming in. I don't want to be sitting on my butt."

Max Brosda, 41, just lost his job as an RV technician.

"You know what I think? A lot of people are scared. I'm hoping it's not as tough as looks like and as the media kind of says it is. I'm still quite hopeful, but we'll see. Cross my fingers," Brosda said.

He applied to be a historical interpreter, a job he held at Fort Edmonton Park years ago. Brosda said although he's overqualified, at least it's a job.

The City of Edmonton is looking to fill 600 positions, from temporary clerks to staff for summer attractions.