Amazon Inc. has announced that it plans to create over 100,000 new jobs in the US over the course of next 18 months. The move will likely help the company to build better rapport with President-elect Donald Trump, who has pressured companies to create more jobs domestically.
The online retail giant stated that the jobs would be created in diverse fields ranging from software development to warehousing. A press release from Amazon said that the company plans to boost its full-time headcount in the United States by more 50 percent in the coming 18 months. These numbers will translate to more than 280,000 Amazon workers in the US.
Amazon is currently pushing for the creation of new warehouses for faster delivery. These warehouses are expected to generate various employment opportunities.
According to Marc Wulfraat, president of logistics consultancy MWPVL International Inc., Amazon is working on at least 16 new fulfillment centers to be developed in the current and coming year. However, Amazon has not issued any comment in this regard.
Amazon stated that the newly created jobs "are for people all across the country and with all types of experience, education and skill levels -- from engineers and software developers to those seeking entry-level positions and on-the-job training."
Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos had been a vocal critic of Trump during his election campaign. The latest move announced by Amazon will help the company to bridge its gap with the new president.
Amazon has also been criticized for its hostile work environment. It has been accused of paying lower than standard wages while imposing strict working hours.
However, Amazon spokeswoman Kelly Cheeseman told USA TODAY that the company encourages people to come to their corporate office and fulfillment centers to get a first-hand experience of its working conditions.