As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, Amazon and its network of partners are helping communities around the world in a way that very few can — delivering critical supplies directly to the doorsteps of people who need them. Getting a priority item to the doorstep is vital as communities practice social-distancing, particularly for the elderly and others with underlying health issues.
Amazon is seeing a significant increase in demand, which means its labor needs are unprecedented for this time of year.
The online retail giant is opening 100,000 new full and part-time positions across the U.S. in fulfillment centers and delivery network to meet the surge in demand from people relying on Amazon’s service during this stressful time, particularly those most vulnerable to being out in public.
Amazon is also aware of the many people who have been economically impacted as jobs in areas like hospitality, restaurants, and travel are lost or furloughed as part of this crisis. It wants those people to know they are welcome until things return to normal and their past employer is able to bring them back.
In addition to the 100,000 new roles created, Amazon want to recognize its employees who are playing an essential role for people at a time when many of the services that might normally be there to support them are closed. In the U.S., Amazon will be adding an additional $2 per hour worked through April from its current rate of $15/hour or more, depending on the region.
This commitment to increased pay through the end of April represents an investment of over $350 million in increased compensation for hourly employees across the U.S., Europe and Canada.
Health and safety are a top priority with all of Amazon’s roles and sites. It continues to consult with medical and health experts, and will take all recommended precautions in buildings and stores to keep people healthy. Amazon has taken measures to promote social distancing in the workplace and taken on enhanced and frequent cleaning, to name just a few.