SEATTLE — Amazon announced Tuesday that it plans to hire more than 300,000 employees across its U.S. operations network to gear up for the upcoming holiday rush. The seasonal hiring drive spans full-time, part-time, and seasonal positions across fulfillment centers, sorting facilities, and delivery networks nationwide.
To attract applicants in a competitive logistics and retail labor market, the e-commerce giant is pairing the hiring blitz with wage bumps and a notable expansion in healthcare benefits for short-term staff.
Day-One Healthcare for Seasonal Roles
In a departure from typical industry standards, Amazon stated that starting January 1, 2027, eligible seasonal workers clocking at least 30 hours per week will receive healthcare coverage from their first day on the job.
Under the new policy:
- Qualifying seasonal hires will have access to medical plans starting at $5 per week with $5 copays.
- Workers hired prior to January 1, 2027, will become eligible on that date, while those hired after will receive coverage immediately upon starting.
“It’s rare for companies in our industry to offer healthcare starting on the first day on the job, but we’ve been offering that to regular full-time employees for several years,” said J. Ofori Agboka, Amazon’s Vice President of People Experience and Technology for Global Operations. “Whether someone joins Amazon for a few months or comes to build a long-term career, we want them to have access to industry-leading benefits that support them and their families.”
Pay Rates and Expanded Compensation
The seasonal surge follows a recent company-wide wage investment exceeding $1.5 billion into its U.S. core operations workforce:
- Starting Base: Full-time core operations roles now carry a minimum wage of $20 per hour.
- Seasonal Average: Seasonal employees earn an average of $20 per hour.
- Overall Average: Across all core operations, average hourly cash wages reach nearly $24 per hour.
- Total Compensation: When factoring in health coverage, retirement contributions, and other benefits, Amazon estimates average total compensation exceeds $32 per hour for full-time personnel.
Perks Aimed at Cost-of-Living Pressures
In addition to base wages, Amazon highlighted recently launched employee perks geared toward stretching household budgets. Workers now receive an uncapped 10% discount on everyday essentials and groceries on Amazon.com and Whole Foods online, along with a 20% discount inside Whole Foods physical stores.
The company is also rolling out “Day 1 Financial”—a partnership with First Tech Federal Credit Union providing low-cost banking services that qualified workers and their families can retain for life, even after leaving the company. Other standard benefits include prepaid college tuition up to $5,250 annually via Amazon’s Career Choice program, 401(k) matching, and paid parental leave.
Application Window
Amazon stated that open positions will be published in rolling batches weekly from October through December. Job seekers can monitor openings and sign up for local notifications by visiting amazon.com/localjobs or by texting NEWJOB to 31432.
