Amazon’s hiring policies are flexible regarding educational qualifications, especially for entry-level positions like warehouse associates, where a high school diploma or GED is typically not strictly required. However, having a high school diploma or GED can provide a competitive edge when applying.
To qualify for most jobs at Amazon, a high school diploma or GED is generally necessary. Prepsaret offers an online GED Test Prep course designed to help people prepare effectively, including study notes and practice tests.
However, recently Amazon has begun hiring employees without secondary education degrees and has launched initiatives to support them in obtaining a GED or even a college degree at the company’s expense. This underscores the value of obtaining a GED, whether you are seeking employment at Amazon or already working there.
In 2024, Amazon continues to emphasize its commitment to employee education through its Career Choice program, which remains a significant initiative for those seeking to earn their GED.
Amazon’s Requirements When Applying for a Job
Amazon’s hiring process involves several key requirements and policies that prospective employees must understand.
1. Educational Requirements
High School Diploma or GED
Generally, Amazon requires applicants to have at least a high school diploma or GED for many positions.
However, due to the company’s rapid expansion, there are reports that Amazon is increasingly hiring individuals without these credentials, particularly for entry-level roles in fulfillment centers.
Having a GED proves advantageous as statistics consistently show that individuals with a high school diploma or GED generally earn more.
According to labor statistics, those with a secondary education credential can earn over $9,600 more annually compared to their counterparts without a diploma.
This financial benefit underscores the value of obtaining a GED, not only for meeting Amazon’s hiring criteria but also for enhancing earning potential in other jobs that require a GED. Find Out >> What jobs are available with a GED?
2. Age Requirements
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for most positions, particularly those in warehouses and fulfillment centers.
3. Physical Requirements
Many positions, especially warehouse roles, require candidates to meet specific physical demands. For instance, warehouse associates must be able to lift up to 49 pounds, push utility carts weighing up to 60 pounds, and perform various physical tasks such as standing, walking, bending, and reaching during their shifts.
4. Background Checks
Amazon conducts thorough background checks on applicants. This includes investigating any criminal records. While Amazon is open to hiring individuals with criminal records, each case is evaluated individually.
For example, a history of fraud or theft may disqualify an applicant from certain positions, while minor offenses may not impact hiring decisions.
Drug Testing
All applicants are required to pass a drug test before being offered a position. Amazon has made recent changes to its drug testing policy, particularly regarding marijuana.
For certain unregulated positions, Amazon no longer screens for marijuana, reflecting a shift towards more equitable hiring practices.
Check Out: What Information Can Employers Obtain During Background Checks?
5. Annual Medical Assessments
Health Assessments
Once employed, Amazon requires all employees to undergo annual medical assessments. This includes drug testing, and the company reserves the right to conduct random drug tests to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Amazon’s Hiring and Application Process
Amazon’s hiring and application process is structured and designed to efficiently evaluate a diverse range of candidates for various positions.
Job Selection and Application
Choosing a Job
Candidates start by selecting a job that aligns with their skills and interests. They can choose their preferred shift and location, which is particularly important for roles in fulfillment centers.
Online Application
The application process begins with submitting an online application. Candidates must create an Amazon Jobs account, which includes providing personal information, work history, and educational background. The application typically takes about 20 minutes to complete.
Resume Submission
While many entry-level positions, such as warehouse roles, do not require a resume, candidates applying for corporate or specialized positions must submit one. Amazon uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to screen resumes for relevant keywords, so it’s important to tailor the resume to the specific job.
Assessment and Screening
Pre-Employment Assessments
Depending on the position, candidates may be required to complete assessments, such as a work style assessment or role-specific tests. These assessments help Amazon evaluate a candidate’s fit for the role.
Background Check
After receiving a contingent job offer, candidates undergo a background check to verify their employment history and check for any criminal records. This step is crucial for ensuring workplace safety.
Drug Testing
Some positions require candidates to pass a drug test, typically conducted after the job offer but before starting work.
Pre-Hire Appointment
In-Person Appointment: Candidates who pass the initial screening will attend a pre-hire appointment. This appointment is unpaid and involves completing necessary paperwork, including the Form I-9 for employment eligibility. Candidates must bring proof of identity and eligibility to work in the U.S.
Job-Specific Training: During the pre-hire appointment, candidates may also receive information about job-specific training and safety protocols.
Interview Process
Amazon’s application process remains consistent across positions, yet variations arise once you reach the interview stage.
For senior roles, Amazon requires candidates to undergo a professional assessment to gauge alignment of competencies and skills with the job’s demands.
For manual roles and after passing Amazon’s assessment, candidates progress to a job interview. This process may start with a phone interview, followed by an in-person meeting upon success, or sometimes directly with an in-person interview.
Successful completion of these stages typically results in a conditional job offer. Conditions include passing professional, educational, and criminal background checks conducted by Amazon.
Job Offer and Onboarding
Contingent Job Offer
If all assessments and checks are passed, candidates receive a formal job offer. This offer is contingent upon the successful completion of the background check and drug test.
Onboarding Process
New hires participate in an orientation session on their first day, which includes training on company policies, safety procedures, and job-specific tasks. Employees are assigned to teams and begin their roles after this initial training.
Hiring Timelines by Position
The duration of the hiring process varies by position:
- Fulfillment Associate: 1-2 days, often with a group interview.
- Customer Service Representative: Up to 1 week, with multiple assessments.
- Software Development Engineer: 2-3 weeks, including coding assessments and multiple technical interviews.
- HR Assistant: Typically within 2 weeks, often involving group interviews.
Tracking Application Status
Candidates can track their application status through their Amazon Jobs account, where they will see updates such as “Application Submitted,” “Under Consideration,” or “No Longer Under Consideration.”
Amazon’s hiring and application process is designed to be thorough yet efficient, accommodating a wide range of applicants for various roles. By understanding the steps involved and what to expect, candidates can better prepare for their application and increase their chances of securing a position at Amazon.
It’s important to note that individuals with a high school diploma or GED tend to earn higher wages than those without secondary education. Therefore, pursuing a GED can significantly pay off in the long run.
Discover: How Do You Get a GED?
Amazon Career Choice Program
The Amazon Career Choice program was launched in 2012. This initiative is designed to provide eligible hourly employees with education and training benefits that help them grow their skills for career success, either within Amazon or in other fields.
Since its inception, the program has supported over 113,000 employees in pursuing various educational pathways, including GED programs, college degrees, and industry certifications in high-demand areas such as technology, healthcare, and mechanical systems.
The program covers a significant portion of tuition and fees, making it a valuable resource for employees looking to advance their education and careers.
Overview of the Career Choice Program
Program Structure
The Career Choice program provides financial assistance to hourly employees who wish to pursue their GED, as well as other educational opportunities. The program covers 95% of tuition and fees, including the costs associated with taking the four GED subtests, which totals approximately $145.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Career Choice program, employees must have been employed at Amazon for at least 90 days. This eligibility criterion ensures that the program is accessible to a broad range of employees, encouraging them to pursue educational advancement.
Partnership with GED Testing Service
Amazon has partnered with the GED Testing Service to facilitate access to GED preparation and testing. This partnership allows employees to benefit from a comprehensive program that includes study materials, practice tests, and tutoring services.
Key Features of the GED Support Program
- Comprehensive Support: Through the GEDWorks program, employees have access to various resources, including:
Bilingual Personal Advisors: Employees can receive guidance in both English and Spanish, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder their educational pursuits.
Online Study Materials: A range of online resources is available to help employees prepare for the GED tests effectively.
Practice Tests and Tutoring: Employees can take advantage of GED Practice Tests and one-on-one tutoring to enhance their understanding of the material and improve their chances of passing the GED exams.
- Investment in Education: Amazon has committed to investing $1.2 billion to upskill more than 300,000 employees by 2025. This investment reflects the company’s dedication to workforce development and the importance of education in securing better job opportunities.
- Career Advancement: The Career Choice program is designed not only to help employees earn their GED but also to facilitate career growth. By obtaining a GED, employees can qualify for higher-paying positions within Amazon or pursue further education in various fields.
- Impact on Employees: Since the launch of the Career Choice program, over 110,000 employees have participated, with many successfully earning their GEDs. The program has been praised for opening doors to better job opportunities and empowering employees to take control of their career paths.
Amazon is fostering a culture of learning and development that benefits both employees and the company as a whole. This initiative not only helps individuals improve their qualifications but also contributes to a more skilled and capable workforce.
Learn More: Fastest Way to Earn a GED Diploma
Amazon Jobs That Do Not Require a GED
Fulfillment Associates
These positions involve tasks such as picking, packing, and shipping customer orders in Amazon’s warehouses.
The hiring process for fulfillment associates is streamlined, and applicants can often apply without a resume or a high school diploma.
Warehouse Workers
Similar to fulfillment associates, warehouse workers perform various physical tasks in Amazon’s distribution centers. Many of these roles prioritize physical capability over educational credentials.
Delivery Drivers:
Amazon Flex drivers and delivery associates may not require a GED, as the focus is on the ability to deliver packages efficiently and safely.
Customer Service Representatives
Some customer service roles, especially those that are remote, may not have strict educational requirements. However, having a high school diploma or GED can be beneficial.
Additionally, beyond Amazon, there are plenty of other jobs that do not require a high school diploma or a GED.
Amazon Jobs That Require a GED or High School Diploma
Corporate Positions
Many corporate roles, especially those in management, HR, and finance, often require at least a high school diploma or GED as part of the minimum qualifications.
Technical Roles
Positions such as Software Development Engineers (SDEs) or IT specialists generally require a higher level of education, including a GED or equivalent.
Skilled Trades
Jobs in maintenance, engineering, or other skilled trades may require a GED as part of the qualifications for safety and technical knowledge.
Specialized Customer Service Roles
Some customer service positions that require advanced technical knowledge or specialized training may also require a GED.
Importance of the GED
Obtaining a GED can significantly enhance job prospects at Amazon. Employees who earn their GED through Amazon’s Career Choice program often see an average wage increase of approximately 10% after completion.
To successfully pass the GED and start reaping these benefits, using a GED study guide can greatly help your preparation.
The Career Choice program supports employees in obtaining their GED by covering the costs associated with the tests, which total around $145 for the four subtests.
FAQS
Do You Need Documents To Work at Amazon?
To work at Amazon, you will need to provide certain documents to verify your identity and employment eligibility. This typically includes proof of your right to work, such as a passport or other government-issued identification.
For roles in the UK, specific documentation is required based on citizenship, including passports or National Insurance proof. Additionally, during the hiring process, you may need to complete a Form I-9 and provide other identification at a pre-hire appointment.
Proper documentation is essential to ensure compliance with legal requirements before starting your job at Amazon.
Can Anyone Get Hired at Amazon?
While many people can get hired at Amazon, the process is competitive and varies by position. Amazon seeks candidates who align with its leadership principles and possess relevant skills for the job.
Entry-level roles may have more lenient requirements, allowing people without extensive experience to apply. However, specialized positions often demand specific qualifications and educational backgrounds.
Applicants must complete an online application, assessments, and interviews. Ultimately, while almost anyone can apply, success in securing a job at Amazon depends on meeting the company’s standards and demonstrating the necessary competencies for the role.
Will Amazon Pay For Your GED?
Yes, Amazon will pay for your GED through its Career Choice program. This initiative supports employees in obtaining their high school diplomas or GEDs, along with offering tuition for college degrees and professional certificates.
Employees can access this benefit after working at Amazon for at least 90 days. The program covers up to $5,250 annually for educational expenses, making it easier for employees to further their education and career opportunities.
Can You Be in School and Work at Amazon?
Yes, you can attend school while working at Amazon. The company’s Career Choice program provides tuition assistance for hourly employees to pursue degrees, GEDs, or professional certifications.
Amazon offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate students’ needs and partners with over 400 schools globally to provide convenient learning options, both virtual and in-person.
Continue Reading: 10 Main Tips To Overcome Test Anxiety When Taking the GED