Local jobseekers have responded enthusiastically to the first round of hiring for Shanghai Disney Resort due to open in 2015.

On Tuesday, the day after announcing its first recruitment drive, the resort said the number of applications had exceeded expectations.

The resort has offered more than 100 positions, including those in engineering design, project management, construction management, project integration, information technology, procurement and finance.

All positions will be filled by local people as part of Disney's strategy to make the resort "authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese".

"I'd love to work for a company like Disney, which has a great history and reputation. It's a great opportunity and I think I would learn a lot in the company," said a 27-year-old purchaser in Shanghai, who preferred not to be named.

Feng Liang, who works in a local bank, said he will definitely consider finance-related jobs offered by Disney, but he would need a pay rise to move.

"I like the company, I watched its films growing up. I won't say no to it if it offers me acceptable terms," he said.

Li Beijun, a public communications director with Shanghai Disney Resort, said the company will offer a "competitive wage" to attract talent.

Mike Crawford, the resort's general manager, said hiring will continue to be done locally over the coming years to "fill a wide range of employment needs".

"Construction and operation of the project will generate significant economic growth and job creation in Shanghai and China, and will be a catalyst in Shanghai's drive to develop a modern service industry and international tourism destination."

Located in the city's Pudong New Area, construction started on the resort in April last year following a decade of negotiations, and is scheduled to open at the end of 2015. The resort will include a park, two themed hotels, retail, dining and entertainment venues, and an array of other recreation facilities.

The resort is a joint venture between the Walt Disney company and the Shanghai government-controlled Shendi Group.