Amazon started as a small business selling books online. Now, it's a global giant, known for fast deliveries, a streaming platform, and Alexa. Owned by a well-known billionaire, Amazon is one of the biggest companies worldwide.
Looking to join Amazon's success? Want a major global company on your CV? Here’s how to get a job at Amazon. This guide covers how to apply for Amazon jobs in customer service, delivery, or logistics.
You’ll learn how to write an Amazon-specific resume and prepare for an Amazon interview. There's also a sample resume from someone hired at Amazon last year.
Amazon in a Nutshell
Amazon started in 1994 as an online bookstore based in Washington, U.S. It quickly expanded beyond books, becoming a global leader in e-commerce.
Now, Amazon offers a range of products and services like fast delivery, the Kindle e-reader, and a streaming platform. Its international reach and quick deliveries helped make it the top online retailer worldwide.
Jeff Bezos, the founder, was the wealthiest person globally until 2020. Today, Amazon employs over half a million people in the U.S. and continues to grow worldwide.
Why Get a Job at Amazon?
You might wonder, what makes amazon different in terms of hiring processes and benefits? Below are just some reasons why:
- A strong global brand boosts your resume.
- Amazon offers various employee benefits worldwide, including healthcare, parental leave, adoption assistance, stock units, and discounts.
- Flexibility in location. Amazon operates worldwide, allowing you to apply near your residence. Limited remote positions are also available.
- However, working conditions in some roles, like warehouse jobs, have been criticized for safety concerns and anti-union efforts.
It’s your choice how to use this information. Amazon has its pros and cons, and now you know both sides.
How to Apply for a Job at Amazon?
When applying, follow this step-by-step guide:
Visit Amazon's Career Page
Head to Amazon's official career center. Here, you’ll find Amazon job listings worldwide. Choose based on your skills and preferred location.
Use the "Find Jobs" Search Tool
At the top of the page, use the search bar to filter jobs. You can also click on various job categories below. Amazon has thousands of opportunities across different countries, so read the job descriptions thoroughly to find the best fit.
Submit Your Application
Once you find a role, use Amazon’s online application tool. Click “Apply now” and follow the prompts. If you don’t have an Amazon account, create one. Attach your resume if required.
Wait for Amazon to Respond
After submitting your application, be patient. Amazon will contact you if they’re interested in scheduling an interview.
Due to the large volume of applications, they won’t notify you if the application isn’t successful.
Other Ways to Apply:
- Recruitment Sessions: Amazon frequently hosts recruitment events, including military-specific ones. Check Amazon’s military recruitment page for details.
- Hiring Fairs: Attend Amazon’s hiring fairs, some of which allow on-the-spot hiring for roles like warehouse positions.
- Networking: If you know someone already working at Amazon, ask for insights on the job and work culture. A reference from an employee increases your chances of getting hired.
Please keep it simple, stick to the steps, and ensure you're applying for a role that fits your qualifications.
Amazon Job Positions You Can Apply
Amazon job positions offer many choices, depending on your skills, education, and experience.
Here are 34 categories to choose from, including:
- Legal
- Design
- Amazon administrative support
- Data science
- Customer service
- Editorial, content, and writing
- Economics
- Supply chain management
- Human resources
If you don't have experience, a degree, or specialization, options are available:
- Warehouse work requires being over 18, having a high school diploma, and passing a drug test.
- Amazon delivery driver: No special license is required, but you must be 21 or older.
Amazon's rapid growth, fueled by the rise in home deliveries, means plenty of opportunities worldwide exist. Some roles may require specific qualifications, such as university degrees, but there are many accessible options.
Amazon Job Requirements
A degree can help in some Amazon departments like Business or IT, but it’s not mandatory. What counts are the skills you bring to the table? You must be 18 years old to apply for any Amazon position worldwide.
Amazon Part-Time and Student Jobs
Amazon offers plenty of part-time opportunities for students or those seeking additional income.
These positions are available in departments like IT, management, and warehouses. On the left side of the job search page, search through Amazon's job listings and filter for part-time roles.
Amazon also provides special employment programs for students in undergraduate and graduate schools. These jobs help improve finances and give your resume a strong boost for future job searches after graduation.
Amazon Internships
Amazon offers internships in several departments. These are open to bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D. students. Internships typically last around 3 months, mostly during summer.
They are paid and often come with relocation bonuses. If relocation isn't an option, some internships are available remotely.
Preparing for a Job Interview at Amazon
Preparing for a job interview at Amazon requires understanding its unique processes and values. Here's how to do it:
- Research Amazon’s website thoroughly, especially the "About Amazon" section.
- Be ready for typical interview questions and know the 14 Amazon Leadership Principles. They are key.
- Dress appropriately—polite and professional.
- Amazon interviews are behavioral-based. Expect questions on how you’d react to various work situations.
- After the interview, email the Amazon recruiter or hiring manager a thank-you email.
- Prepare for an online assessment to evaluate your key characteristics for the role.
- For technical positions like software engineering, expect to demonstrate your skills directly.
- Common Amazon interview questions include:
- Why Amazon?
- Which Amazon leadership principle do you connect with most?
- Who is Amazon’s CEO?
- Tell me about a time you faced a crisis at work.
- Describe an Amazon product or service relevant to your role as you would to a customer.
Amazon Resume and Cover Letter Tips
Good news—Amazon doesn’t require a cover letter. Focus directly on your application. A resume isn't necessary for warehouse positions at Amazon. A valid photo ID and passing a drug test should suffice.
However, a resume is required for roles in other departments, especially those requiring experience or specific skills.
Amazon often allows candidates to create an online application summarizing skills and experience, sometimes eliminating the need for a traditional resume. They may request LinkedIn profile details instead.
If you have work samples, add links to your online application. However, it is still advisable to include a resume, especially for higher or competitive roles.
Resume Essentials for Amazon Applications:
- A brief profile highlighting relevant qualities.
- A skills section, especially for technical roles.
- Detailed work experience showcasing responsibilities and skills.
- Achievements and certifications are a bonus.
- Education, including grades if they stand out, for students or recent graduates.
Final Tips for Working at Amazon:
- On your first day, make a strong impression and ask for guidance if needed. It’s a learning opportunity.
- Don’t hesitate to negotiate your salary. It’s possible at Amazon.
- Amazon values hard work. It’s not the place for slow-paced workers – effort matches good pay.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Amazon offers many opportunities worldwide, from warehouse roles to advanced technical positions.
Applying is straightforward, and understanding their expectations—whether it’s in crafting a focused resume or preparing for behavioral interviews—will improve your chances.
Amazon’s global impact and competitive benefits make it an appealing choice for career growth. So, if you’re ready to work hard and aim high, Amazon could be your next step.