Residents lined up for the chance to work at the new Amazon fulfillment center opening in Fresno
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Valley residents lined up for a chance to land a job at Amazon's new fulfillment center in Fresno.
"It would mean everything. I thank God if I do get it," said Sammy Johnson, applicant.
The hiring fair was for management and technical careers. However, the possibility of working for Amazon was disappointing for some, who learned other positions weren't available just yet.
Amazon officials said this was their first job fair.
Amazon spokesperson Lauren Lynch said, "Amazon is so excited to be opening in Fresno later this summer, and to get ready we're finishing out the building, we're making sure we're installing all the great Amazon robotics. We're making sure everything is perfect prior to opening."
The massive 855,000 square foot fulfillment center is going up near Orange and Central in Southwest Fresno.
Mayor Lee Brand said this industrial deal came together in the past few years.
"Initially, about 1,500 employees with a capacity to go to 2,900-- it's a big shot in the arm for the city of Fresno. We don't get that kind of opportunities, those kinds of employers that bring that many people in."
Hourly wages start at around $15 an hour, with benefits. More hiring is expected as the center gets closer to opening.
Lynch said, "We're going to be looking for people who can help us make customers happy. For people who are interested in jobs picking, packing, and shipping customers' orders."
The city offered incentives to Amazon to come in. Mayor Brand said he's focusing on this industrial area known as the reverse triangle, where Amazon and Ulta are going in. More infrastructure, improvements, and better roads will go in.
"If we do it right, we execute right, it's going to change Fresno."
Brand said the start of these major companies is also drawing attention from other big businesses, who are looking for places to expand.
The job fair for these technical jobs continues through January 18th at the Doubletree Hotel.
The Mayor said this is just the start of thousands of jobs in the Valley.
For more information about available jobs click the links below:
