A recent survey found that almost one in five companies planned on hiring seasonal workers to help them through the holidays.

The survey Careerbuilder.com survey says that's about the same as last year's number.

But with more people facing unemployment, pay cuts, and furloughs, more people than usual are competing for the positions.

GameStop at Crabtree Valley Mall filled it's seasonal positions quickly.

"It's always a competitive environment," said Kevin Dixon, district manager. "This Christmas is no different. We always get applications."

Lori Holly, general manger at the mall's Macy's, said seasonal employees can sometimes land a permanent position after the holidays.

"I have some managers who started that way, as seasonal associates," Holly said. "Our hiring is about the same as last year, so we're definitely looking for seasonal hires to come onboard through the Christmas season."

UPS has about 375 seasonal positions in the Raleigh area.

John Steed, who recently moved to the Triangle from California, is working one of those positions while he looks for more permanent work, in a tough job market.

"It's allowing me to get settled here in the area," he said. "Every penny counts."