Amazon Delivery Jobs Present a Dynamic Blend of Side Gigs, Careers, and Profitable Business Ventures

Driven by a desire to have complete control over its entire product distribution chain, Amazon is making strides to disrupt the carrier-service industry.

As the leading force in the e-commerce realm, Amazon consistently aims to meet the high expectations of its customers by ensuring the efficient and timely delivery of millions of packages each day, often within a two-day timeframe.

While Amazon has previously relied on established delivery partners such as FedEx, UPS, and the United States Postal Service (USPS) to handle a significant proportion of its package transportation, recent initiatives suggest a shift towards an increased reliance on its internal delivery services.

In August, Amazon announced the termination of its ground-delivery contract with FedEx, stating that the company is striving to enhance the delivery experience and, at times, reevaluating its carrier relationships.

With the expiration of various delivery contracts, Amazon is increasingly offering internal delivery job opportunities, particularly during the holiday hiring season. This allows the company to further assert control over the delivery process and provide reliable and efficient services directly to its customers.

From Packages to Possibilities: Understanding the Diverse Range of Amazon Delivery Jobs

In order to address its delivery challenges, Amazon has introduced a range of programs. Due to the significant demand for delivery drivers, the requirements to secure Amazon delivery jobs are frequently minimal.

The goal of these programs is to expand the pool of potential drivers and ensure a reliable workforce to meet the growing demand for deliveries. This has resulted in Amazon adopting more inclusive criteria, making it easier for individuals to qualify for these positions. While specific requirements may vary by location and program, the overall aim is to attract a large number of applicants and provide ample opportunities for employment.

To meet the qualifications for typical delivery jobs at Amazon, applicants should possess the following:

• A valid driver’s license (commercial class is not required).
• The physical capability to lift and carry boxes weighing up to 70 pounds.
• A high school diploma or an equivalent level of education.
• Sufficient proficiency in the English language to read road signs and communicate effectively.

It is important to note that regardless of the specific position, Amazon workers are guaranteed a minimum hourly wage of at least $15. This baseline wage ensures a fair and consistent standard of compensation across various roles within the company.

1. Amazon Flex

In an effort to rapidly recruit delivery drivers, Amazon has tapped into the gig economy by offering on-demand delivery opportunities through Amazon Flex.

Amazon Flex drivers utilize their own car or SUV to fulfill deliveries for Amazon.com, Prime Now, and Amazon Fresh orders. The company claims that Flex drivers can earn between $18 and $25 per hour. However, it is important to note that these rates may fluctuate depending on the number of deliveries completed by the driver.

While Amazon Flex gigs are available nationwide, the company typically displays only regions with the highest demand during the initial sign-up process. If your specific area is not currently listed as an available region, you have the option to join the “interest list” and indicate your desire for future gigs in your location. By doing so, you can express your interest and potentially be notified when opportunities become available in your area.

2. Amazon Fresh

Contrary to popular perception, Amazon is not solely focused on the delivery of smiley brown boxes. The company has also made significant strides in the fresh grocery delivery market.

Amazon Fresh, the grocery delivery arm of Amazon, was launched over a decade ago, primarily serving the Seattle area. However, in recent years, Amazon Fresh services have expanded to encompass major cities like New York and Los Angeles.

While a comprehensive list of Amazon Fresh operating locations is not provided by Amazon, individuals seeking employment can check for local job opportunities within the Fresh division using the company’s dedicated job portal.

It is worth noting that while some Amazon Flex drivers may also deliver grocery orders, Amazon Fresh drivers are specifically assigned to handle grocery deliveries exclusively. Moreover, Fresh drivers are often considered part-time employees of Amazon, as opposed to independent contractors like many Flex drivers.

3. Seasonal Amazon Delivery Jobs

In anticipation of the upcoming holiday season, the retail industry is ramping up its workforce by hiring hundreds of thousands of seasonal workers. This hiring surge typically occurs between the months of September through November.

This year there were nearly 500,000 seasonal job openings, with Amazon being among the companies seeking additional employees. In previous years, Amazon has hired over 100,000 workers to support its operations during the holiday season. However, as of yet, the official numbers for the 2023 season have not been announced.

Seasonal driver positions available at Amazon are considered full-time roles. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, possess the ability to safely operate a 10,000-pound delivery van, and be willing to work shifts that can extend up to 12 hours in length.

To apply for seasonal driver jobs at Amazon, you can visit the company’s dedicated seasonal jobs portal or simply text “DRIVENOW” to 77088 for more information.

4. Delivery Service Partner Program

If you aspire to run your own package delivery business, Amazon offers a program specifically designed for that purpose.

Launched in June 2018, the Amazon partnership program aims to attract entrepreneurial individuals with a knack for delivery to establish their own full-time package delivery businesses in collaboration with Amazon. While Amazon provides basic training and guidance, the partners are responsible for recruiting and hiring employees, as well as leasing vehicles.

In May 2019, the program was expanded to incentivize current Amazon employees to venture into starting their own package-delivery businesses. Amazon offers employees up to $10,000, along with three months of their current wages, as an opportunity to quit their Amazon jobs and join the new program. Furthermore, military veterans who are not Amazon employees may also be eligible to receive startup funds.

To be considered for the program, Amazon favors applicants who possess the following:

• Experience in hiring and developing employees.
• A minimum of $30,000 in available liquid assets.
• Previous experience as a business owner.
• Experience in delivering packages.

Pro Tip: If you have less experience in the relevant areas, delivering packages for Amazon first can serve as a stepping stone to bolster your application for the Delivery Service Partner program and make you eligible for the $10,000 incentive.

If this program piques your interest, our comprehensive Amazon Delivery Service Partner guide delves into the intricacies of the program, providing valuable insights and guidance.