Samsung Group said Wednesday that it would hire 6,000 contract-based part-time workers in an effort to increase work opportunities for unemployed married women and elderly retirees.

According to the largest conglomerate in Korea, its 20 affiliates including Samsung Electronics and Samsung Display will participate in the employment policy applicable to 120 types of jobs.

“Through the program, we will have work opportunities for women who took a career hiatus due to marriage and child care and for the elderly who want to work after their retirement,” a company official said.

The program will allow for flexible work hours.

While being required to work for four or six hours, the workers can choose to do a day shift or afternoon shift, and even work at home depending on the job.

The payment will differ based on working hours, job type and skill set, according to the firm.

The number of workers hired by conglomerate’s affiliates will vary from business to business.

Around 2,700 will work for the electronics business, while 700 will work for Samsung Display, and 400 for Samsung Heavy Industries. The rest will be allotted to other Samsung affiliates.

Jobs available include positions in development assistance in software and hardware development, consulting assistance, market research and maintenance work.

All four major insurance programs including health and pension are provided.

Those who meet certain standards can extend their two-year contract after it expires.

The application process opens Monday on Samsung Group’s website, with screening and interviews taking place from December through January.

The conglomerate said that the program will help people balance work and family while supporting family finances.

By Kim Young-won (wone0102@heraldcorp.com)