To keep up with a surge in demand due to the spread of the coronavirus, Amazon stated that they’re looking to hire 100,000 people across the US.
The online retailer is planning to temporarily increase pay by $2 an hour through the end of April. The current pay is $15 per hour for all hourly employees working at warehouses, delivery centers and Whole Foods grocery stores in the US & Canada.
Amazon’s SVP of Worldwide Operations Dave Clark says, “As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, Amazon and our 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 your doorstep is vital as communities practice social-distancing, particularly for the elderly and others with underlying health issues. We are seeing a significant increase in demand, which means our labor needs are unprecedented for this time of year.”
A week prior, the company notified employees about compensation during the crisis; stating that any employee diagnosed with COVID-19 will have up to two weeks’ pay, along with access to an established relief fund of $25 million to help its independent delivery service partners and drivers.
Additionally, for those interested in positions available, the Seattle-based company says there are a mix of full-time and part-time jobs available, including delivery drivers, warehouse workers and more.
