Amazon Increases Starting Pay for Full-Time Operations Workers

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 17, 2026

Amazon is raising the minimum starting hourly wage for its full-time U.S. operations employees to $20 starting September 27, along with introducing new grocery and Whole Foods discounts. These changes aim to enhance employee compensation and support as the company gears up for the holiday shopping season.

Amazon announced an increase in the minimum starting hourly wage for its full-time core operations employees in the United States to $20, effective September 27. This adjustment represents a $1-per-hour raise for workers involved in roles such as packing and shipping orders. With the increase, the company said the average hourly pay for these employees will approach $24.

The company also highlighted that when factoring in benefits, the average total compensation for these workers will exceed $32 per hour. In addition to the wage boost, Amazon introduced new benefits that include a 10 percent discount on eligible fresh groceries and everyday essentials available online at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market. Employees will also receive a 20 percent discount at Whole Foods physical stores. These discounts can be combined with existing Prime member offers.

These employee benefits will roll out nationwide beginning October 1 and apply to all Amazon workers in the United States. The timing aligns with the retailer’s preparation for the upcoming holiday shopping season, a critical period for its operations workforce.

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