5 ways Amazon is investing in New Jersey

Key takeaways Amazon has invested more than $55 billion in New Jersey and contributed over $60 billion to the state's economy. The company has more than 42,000 full- and part-time employees and supports more than 30,000 indirect jobs.

Amazon partners with 14 educational institutions in New Jersey through its Career Choice program and has upskilled over 6,400 employees since 2019. More than 284 million items were sold by New Jersey-based independent sellers through Amazon's store.

For more than 30 years, Amazon has been investing across the United States, strengthening local economies and creating opportunities for communities nationwide. New Jersey is a prime example of this commitment, with Amazon building a substantial presence in the state since 2008.

Katherine Hopkins teaches a training on belt fasteners to Gabriel Sanchez, at ABE8 Amazon Distribution Center, in Florence, N. J. , on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. Today, New Jersey serves as a thriving innovation and logistics hub for Amazon, with investments spanning fulfillment centers to Whole Foods Market locations.

The company's economic impact extends beyond direct employment, supporting thousands of additional jobs in construction, logistics, and professional services, and helping local businesses reach customers around the world. Here are five ways Amazon is investing in New Jersey: 1.

Investing in our employees Amazon provides competitive wages and comprehensive benefits from Day 1. Operations employees in customer fulfillment and transportation earn an average hourly base wage of more than $24, with total compensation averaging more than $32 an hour when including benefits.

These benefits include health, vision, and dental insurance starting on Day 1, free mental health resources, up to 20 weeks of fully paid parental leave, a 401(k) with 50% company match, and flexible time-off options that increase with tenure. Lina Hernandez at ACY5 Amazon Fulfillment Center, in Logan Township, NJ, on Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

Beyond more than 42,000 direct jobs, Amazon's presence in New Jersey supports more than 30,000 indirect jobs in industries such as construction, logistics, and professional services—suppliers and partners whom we rely on every day. 2.

Supporting workforce development and upskilling Amazon is committed to preparing its workforce for future opportunities through comprehensive education and skills training programs. Since 2019, more than 6,400 New Jersey employees have participated in these free initiatives.

Amazon commits $1 billion to Career Choice employee education program as part of Future Ready 2030 fund The Future Ready 2030 fund supports students, employees, and those looking to expand their skills as the workforce adapts to a changing economy.

In New Jersey, Amazon partners with 14 educational institutions through its Career Choice program, which prepays tuition for employees pursuing further education. These partnerships with colleges and universities across the state help Amazon employees gain in-demand skills that can propel them into new careers.

From Machine Learning University to Career Choice, these programs represent Amazon's investment in developing talent and creating pathways to opportunity for its workforce. 3.

Building infrastructure across the Garden State Amazon has invested more than $55 billion in New Jersey's infrastructure and employee compensation, contributing more than $60 billion to the state's gross domestic product. Aerial view of a New Jersey-based Amazon facility with solar panels.

These investments include 24 fulfillment and sortation centers, 23 delivery stations, and other facilities across the state. The company has also expanded its retail footprint with 25 Whole Foods Market locations across New Jersey.

Amazon continues to grow its sustainable infrastructure as well, with 15 solar farms and 15 sites with on-site solar power in the state. 4. Empowering New Jersey's small businesses Amazon provides a powerful opportunity for New Jersey's entrepreneurs and small businesses to reach customers worldwide.

New Jersey-based independent sellers —primarily small and medium-sized businesses—sold more than 284 million items through Amazon's store, with the average seller generating more than $540,000 in annual sales. Inside Broombi 's packing room in Fort Lee, New Jersey, where the team prepares their patented bristleless brooms for shipment.

These independent sellers represent more than 60% of sales in Amazon's store. Their success contributes significantly to local economies, with more than 65% of U. S. independent sellers employing at least one person within 50 miles of their primary business location.

By providing infrastructure, logistics support, and access to millions of customers, Amazon enables New Jersey's small businesses to scale their operations and create additional jobs throughout the state. 5. Investing as a good neighbor Amazon uses its g