How to land a remote job at Amazon

You can say goodbye to long commutes, parking, and babysitters with a work-from-home (WFH) career. Amazon has a range of remote opportunities, and many of them come with benefits.

There are jobs in customer service, administration, pharmacy, tech, and more. Or, you can apply to work with Amazon Flex, an online delivery service.

If you're thinking of joining the Amazon workforce of more than 1.5 million employees, we'll tell you everything you need to know.

From work-from-home essentials to background checks and popular job types, you'll find it all in this article.

Here's your ultimate guide to Amazon remote careers.

What is Amazon?

Amazon is a tech-savvy company that operates worldwide. The digital platform started as an online bookseller and has grown to become a leading virtual marketplace. It was founded in 1994 by Jeff Bezos and is now a household name.

Shoppers can use the Amazon e-commerce website or app to shop for a range of goods at affordable prices. For example, there are electronics, grocery items, pet supplies, and baby products.

The brand offers fast, free delivery thanks to its network of delivery drivers.

Besides shopping, Amazon has other services. For example, there are Amazon health services, a digital streaming platform, and the artificial intelligence assistant — Alexa.

The company has a range of jobs available, including entry-level positions. You can get a full-time, part-time, seasonal, or flexible role. And, there are remote jobs in some locations.

Who are Amazon's competitors? The list includes eBay, Walmart, Costco, Alibaba, and Target.

What do you need to work from home?

If you want to be successful in a remote position, there are a few things you'll need. If it's a computer-based role, such as an Amazon customer service position, you should have a quiet workspace.

The tools you'll need include a computer, headphones, and a reliable internet connection. You'll be sitting for long hours, so make sure your desk and chair are comfortable.

(Image Source)

You’ll need computer skills and confidence using common programs such as Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and video conferencing software.

Working from home does have its perks, but you'll need to be organized, self-motivated, and have excellent time management skills. Even though you'll be part of a team, you won't have the same interactions as in an in-person role.

What Amazon jobs can you do from home?

Want to work from home? Amazon is hiring across the board, and there may be a virtual role available that matches your skillset.

Here's a look at some of the jobs that may be available in your area.

1. Virtual customer care advisor

Virtual customer care advisors work in a remote call center environment. They provide customer support over the phone, email, and live help desks.

They need a quiet workspace to make and receive phone calls. Customer care advisors answer questions, manage complaints, and help people process payments.

These roles can be across different specialty departments, including pharmacy. In this setting, the customer care advisor may offer support for medications, health, and well-being.

If you have a background in customer service, it'll be an advantage. The types of skills you'll need include communication, organization, and problem-solving. Computer skills are also essential.

2. Customer service

As a customer service representative with Amazon you will answer customer inquiries during all phases of the sales process: presale, ordering, and post order.

You’ll respond to their questions about how something fits, its availability, and any specials that might be offered. You may also be asked to help with ordering, delivery, billing, and shipping.

(Image Source)

This job requires a high school diploma or GED as well as two years of retail experience. Basic math skills, exceptional communication skills, and flexibility within a full-time schedule are all desired for this role.

3. Remote pharmacy technician

Amazon Pharmacy is a virtual service. Remote pharmacy techs work from home and manage customer orders. They input details and communicate with customers and pharmacists.

Remote pharmacy technicians receive prescriptions from doctors and make sure they’re processed correctly. They make sure all of the information is accurate and help customers submit claims for insurance.

Pharmacy techs transfer calls to pharmacists and make sure payments are processed. They flag any errors.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma, pharmacy tech license, and basic math skills. You'll need a quiet space, a telephone, and a computer. As an Amazon Pharmacy employee dealing with health data, you'll need to keep information confidential and secure.

4. Remote executive assistant

Sometimes Amazon hires remote executive assistants to support those working in management positions.

These assistants perform a range of office duties, including answering phones, managing busy calendars, and composing emails.

Executive assistants help create budgets, manage expenses, and set goals. They deal with sensitive company information and know how to work with confidentiality.

To get a work-from-home executive assistant role, you'll need some experience in the industry. Communication skills, teamwork, and math skills are also required. You should be confident using word processing software, spreadsheets, calendar management tools, and email.

Organization and time management skills are essential.

5. Tech support specialist

Amazon tech support specialists help with any tech-related queries. They answer phones and emails, and they troubleshoot issues.

These workers get full training, but a background in information technology will be an advantage. The types of support can vary but may include issues with the network, software, apps, or devices.

You'll need a computer, a reliable internet connection, and a smartphone.

(Image Source)

To get this job, you'll need excellent computer skills and interpersonal skills. Because you'll be resolving a range of issues on the go, problem-solving and analytical skills will be beneficial.

Your work hours can vary, with options for weekend and evening shifts.

How to apply for an Amazon work-from-home career?

If you want to look for an Amazon job, you can start with our job board. Browse remote Amazon roles in your location to see what work-from-home jobs are available.

You can also visit the Amazon virtual jobs page, which you can find on the company’s website. You can narrow the search by full-time or part-time positions and the job category. For example, departments include sales, customer service, software development, operations, and marketing.

Plus, you can select your country and city.

You can click on any position and read the job description. You'll learn about the duties and minimum requirements. If you think it's a good fit, you can hit the "Apply now" button.

You'll need to log in with your Amazon or Google account, but if you don't have one, you can create a new one.

Once you've logged in, you'll need to add your personal details, including your name, phone number, and address. It's a step-by-step process, and the questions can depend on the job type.

You can expect to answer a series of general questions, and add your education and work eligibility. You can upload your resume and self-identify a disability or veteran status. When you're ready, you can review your application and press "submit."

Amazon hiring tips

To improve your chances of getting hired, make sure you read through the information carefully. Double-check that your contact details are correct so you don't miss out on application updates.

Read the job description to understand what the hiring manager is looking for. You can then tailor your application to suit. For example, if it’s a virtual help desk position, highlight your communication and customer service skills.

(Image Source)

Or, if it's a remote Amazon pharmacy position, talk about your background in healthcare and any certifications you may have.

You can save your progress and have a friend look over it before you hit submit. However, we recommend completing your application as soon as possible. Jobs can fill quickly, and there can be a large number of candidates.

Does Amazon do a background check?

Like most companies in the US, Amazon does a full background check on potential employees.

This process takes place once you've been given a provisional offer of employment. As long as you pass the background check, you'll get the job.

The background check verifies the basic information on your resume, such as your identity, education, and work experience.

You can also expect a criminal background check. The report goes back between seven to ten years and includes any misdemeanors and felonies. Every local, state, and national database is checked, and Amazon can use this information to make the final hiring decision.

If you're interested in a driving position, such as an Amazon Flex job, there'll also be a driving background check. The company will verify your driver's license and make sure you're eligible to drive. The report will show any traffic-related offenses, including DUIs, reckless driving, or speeding charges.

Just because you have something on your background check, it doesn't automatically exclude you from the job. Amazon will look at the report and consider your unique situation. For example, a misdemeanor from five years ago won't be the same as a felony from two weeks ago.

(Image Source)

If you know something might show up, you can discuss your circumstances with the hiring manager before the background check begins.

Does Amazon do a drug test?

The rules can vary depending on where you work and the type of job you're applying for. However, most corporate and remote positions don't require a pre-employment drug test.

This means once you've passed the background check, you'll be able to start work.

There are some Amazon jobs where a drug test is mandatory. For example, if you're applying for a job at the fulfillment center, you'll probably need to provide a urine sample or mouth swab. These tests look for illegal drugs, but Amazon no longer flags marijuana use.

Even though work-from-home jobs don't usually have a drug test, you still need to be careful. If you've ever been in trouble for a drug or alcohol-related offense, it'll show up on your background check report. Examples include drug trafficking, drunk driving, and the possession of drugs.

What benefits do Amazon remote workers get?

Most remote Amazon workers get the same benefits as in-house employees. However, the benefits can vary depending on the job type. For example, a full-time customer care advisor will get more perks than an Amazon delivery service partner who is an independent contractor.

What can you expect? You'll get a full health insurance benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Of course, your plan can also cover your dependents.

And, there's an FSA (flexible spending account) option if you want to save for unexpected healthcare expenses.

Amazon has a 401(k) retirement plan so you can put money away for your future. There are also stock options if you're interested in investing in the company.

(Image Source)

Amazon remote workers may be eligible for paid time off (PTO) and paid parental leave. Plus, you'll get an employee discount for Amazon purchases.

A unique benefit you get when working from home is flexibility. You can usually choose which hours you want to work and manage your other commitments. If you need to pick your child up from school or attend a class at college, you can plan your shifts to suit.

Want to learn more about Amazon's WFH benefits? Check out this comprehensive guide.

How much can you make at Amazon?

Now, let's discuss salary. WFH jobs can be part-time, full-time, or seasonal. There's also the option to work as an independent contractor. The annual salary will vary depending on how many hours you work and the job description.

So, how much can you make? Let's say you get a job as an Amazon customer service associate. The average salary for this role ranges from $11.00 to $21.00.

Or, if you get hired as a remote IT (information technology) support specialist, the average salary is $24.00 per hour. A data analyst can make $23.00 an hour, and an executive assistant makes an average of $29.00 per hour. Software developers make around $35.00 per hour, and an Amazon copywriter can make an average of $33.00 per hour.

If you want to work as an Amazon Flex driver, you'll get paid in hourly blocks. Committed delivery drivers can make between $18.00 and $25.00 per hour, depending on the workload.

How to make more money as an Amazon delivery driver?

As an Amazon Flex driver, you can choose your own schedule, and accept any blocks that are available. The app will show you how much you'll make and the distance you'll travel.

Look for deliveries that are close together and carefully plan each route.

When there’s a high demand for deliveries, you can increase your capacity and boost your income. For example, there can be more work available during the winter holidays.

(Image Source)

Another way to make more money is through tips. If a customer is happy with their delivery, there's the option to tip the driver. By providing a positive customer experience, you can increase your profit.

The types of parcels you can deliver also make a difference. Those with large SUVs and vans can pick up bigger and heavier items, which come with a higher wage.

Where to find an Amazon remote job

Amazon has jobs available across the globe, and there are options for remote workers. If you want to jump in and apply, visit our job board and browse Amazon positions. Make sure you select "remote / work from home only" to filter the results.

We recommend signing up for a Jobcase account for job alerts. You can also access our free resume builder and participate in our community discussions.

The other option is to visit Amazon and look at the current remote vacancies. Remember, you'll need to sign in to apply and have your work experience and education details ready. If you have a resume, this will help to support your application.

Your Amazon work-from-home career

After reading this article, you’ll have all the ins and outs of an Amazon work-from-home career.

If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, you can apply online. There are jobs in a range of departments, including technology, customer support, administration, delivery, and Amazon health.

To work remotely, you’ll need a quiet workspace and the tools for the job. If it’s a delivery position, a car and a driver’s license will be essential.

All Amazon workers need to pass a background check. This check will verify your details and flag any criminal history. Amazon Flex drivers will also have to pass a driving background check. For most remote positions, a drug test isn’t required.

Don’t forget Amazon employees working remotely can get a range of benefits. Plus, there’s a competitive salary and flexible hours.

Been thinking of a career change? There are jobs available now, and there’s always something new on our job board. Want more support? Visit our resource center for more useful articles.