In response to demand in stores, Walmart announced recently that they are hiring 150,000 new associates nationwide through the end of May. In New York, Walmart plans to hire more than 3,750 associates to work in stores, clubs, distribution centers and fulfillment centers.
On Long Island, Walmart has locations in Farmingdale, Valley Stream, Westbury, Uniondale, Commack, Islandia, Centereach, Middle Island, Levittown, East Meadow, and Riverhead.
These roles will be temporary at first, but Walmart noted that many will convert to permanent roles over time. The retailer has also reached out to industry groups representing restaurants and hospitality to facilitate temporary roles that can be a bridge for their employees who may have been laid off or sent home.
Walmart also announced that they are implementing a new process to expedite hiring for key roles, such as cashiers and stockers. What is usually a two-week application cycle will be reduced to a 24-hour process. Anyone interested in applying should do so at careers.walmart.com.
These steps are in addition to last week’s announcement of a new COVID-19 emergency leave policy that provides support to associates if they are impacted by the coronavirus in the following ways: (1) if they are uncomfortable coming to work right now and choose to stay home (2) if they are part of mandated quarantines or (3) if they have a confirmed case of the virus.
In addition, Walmart announced plans to provide a cash bonus for hourly associates due to the national health crisis. The bonus is for all U.S. hourly associates in stores, clubs, supply chain and offices. The bonus will be $300 for full-time hourly associates and $150 for part-time hourly associates and will add up to more than $365 million. Every hourly associate employed by the company as of March 1 will qualify, and it will pay out on April 2.
