Amazon raises starting wage for U.S. operations workers to $20

Amazon is increasing the minimum starting wage for its full-time operations employees in the United States to $20 per hour. This $1 increase is expected to bring the average hourly pay for its workforce to approximately $24.

In addition to the wage hike, the company is introducing several new benefits. Starting October 1, U.S. employees will receive a 10% discount on eligible fresh grocery purchases via Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market websites, as well as a 20% discount on eligible purchases made inside physical Whole Foods stores.

Amazon also announced plans to offer employees access to First Tech Federal Credit Union memberships beginning in late 2026. This benefit includes lifetime membership for eligible employees and their families, which remains valid even after they leave the company. These updates join existing perks such as health insurance and Amazon Prime memberships.