Walmart is the largest private employer in the United States, with over 1.6 million associates working across more than 4,700 stores nationwide. As a Fortune 1 company, Walmart offers unmatched job stability and a wide range of career opportunities — from entry-level positions in retail to corporate roles at its headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Whether you’re a student looking for a flexible part-time job, a professional seeking a management career, or someone returning to the workforce, Walmart has a position that fits your needs. The company has made major investments in employee compensation and development over the past few years, making it more competitive than ever.
Available Positions at Walmart
Walmart offers a diverse range of positions across its retail stores, distribution centers, e-commerce fulfillment centers, and corporate offices. Here are the most common roles:
In-Store Positions
- Cashier / Front-End Associate: Handle transactions, greet customers, and maintain a clean checkout area. Starting pay typically ranges from $14 to $17 per hour depending on location.
- Stocker / Overnight Associate: Restock shelves, organize inventory, and maintain store appearance. Overnight shifts often come with a pay differential of $1-2 more per hour.
- Online Grocery Pickup (OGP) Associate: Pick, pack, and deliver orders for Walmart’s popular curbside pickup service. One of the fastest-growing departments in the company.
- Department Manager / Team Lead: Oversee specific departments, manage inventory, and lead a team of associates. Pay ranges from $18 to $25+ per hour.
- Store Manager: Responsible for overall store operations, staffing, and sales targets. Store managers can earn $65,000 to $170,000+ annually.
Distribution & Fulfillment Center Positions
- Warehouse Associate: Load, unload, and sort merchandise in distribution centers. Starting pay is typically $18-21 per hour.
- Fulfillment Center Associate: Pick and pack online orders for Walmart.com customers. Similar pay structure to warehouse roles.
Specialty Positions
- Pharmacy Technician: Assist pharmacists with filling prescriptions and customer service. Requires state certification in most locations.
- Auto Care Center Technician: Perform oil changes, tire services, and basic automotive maintenance.
- Vision Center Associate: Assist customers with eyewear selection and handle administrative tasks for the optical department.
Salary and Compensation
Walmart has significantly increased its wages in recent years. Here’s what you can expect:
- Minimum starting wage: $14/hour (varies by market — some locations start at $17+)
- Average hourly pay: $17.50/hour across all U.S. hourly positions
- Team Leads: $18-25/hour
- Store Managers: $65,000-$170,000+ per year
- Distribution Center Workers: $18-21/hour starting
Walmart also offers quarterly bonuses based on store performance, which can add $300-$700+ to your earnings each quarter.
Benefits Package
One of the biggest advantages of working at Walmart is the comprehensive benefits package available to both full-time and part-time employees:
- Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision plans starting as low as $30.50 per pay period for associates. Coverage begins after 90 days of employment.
- 401(k) Retirement Plan: Walmart matches up to 6% of your annual salary, helping you build long-term wealth.
- Live Better U (LBU) Program: 100% free college education — Walmart covers tuition and books at select partner universities. Programs include bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates, and high school completion.
- Associate Discount: 10% discount on fresh produce, regular-priced general merchandise, and other select items.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued based on tenure and hours worked. Full-time associates can earn up to 22 days of PTO after one year.
- Life Insurance: Company-paid life insurance equal to one year’s salary for full-time associates.
- Stock Purchase Plan: Buy Walmart stock with a company match of 15% on the first $1,800 invested per year.
How to Apply for a Job at Walmart
Applying at Walmart is a straightforward process that can be completed entirely online:
Step 1: Visit the Careers Portal
Go to careers.walmart.com and search for available positions by location, job type, or keyword. You can filter results by full-time, part-time, or temporary positions.
Step 2: Create an Account
If you don’t already have one, create a Walmart careers account with your email address. This allows you to save your application progress and track the status of your submissions.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Fill out the online application form, which includes your personal information, work history, education, and availability. Be honest and accurate — Walmart runs background checks on all potential hires.
Step 4: Take the Assessment
Most positions require you to complete an online assessment that evaluates your work style, customer service skills, and situational judgment. Take your time and answer honestly — there are no trick questions.
Step 5: Interview
If your application passes the initial screening, you’ll be contacted for an interview. Store-level interviews are typically conducted in person by a hiring manager. Dress professionally and bring a valid ID.
Step 6: Background Check & Orientation
After a successful interview, Walmart will conduct a background check. Once cleared, you’ll be scheduled for orientation, which typically lasts 1-2 days and covers company policies, safety training, and your specific role.
Tips to Get Hired at Walmart
- Apply to multiple positions: Increase your chances by applying to several roles you’re qualified for at the same location.
- Be flexible with your schedule: Walmart operates 24/7 in many locations. Showing availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays makes you a more attractive candidate.
- Highlight customer service experience: Even if it’s not from retail — any experience interacting with people counts.
- Take the assessment seriously: Don’t rush through it. Walmart uses these results as a major screening tool.
- Follow up: If you haven’t heard back within a week, call the store and politely ask about your application status.
- Apply during hiring seasons: Walmart ramps up hiring before Black Friday, the holiday season, and back-to-school periods.
Requirements
- Minimum age: 16 years old for most in-store positions; 18 for positions involving heavy machinery, alcohol sales, or working in the pharmacy or auto center
- Education: No high school diploma required for most entry-level roles
- Physical requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and work in a fast-paced environment
- Legal authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Walmart hiring process take?
The entire process — from application to first day — typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. This includes the online assessment, interview, background check, and orientation scheduling.
Does Walmart drug test?
Walmart’s drug testing policy varies by position and state. Most entry-level store positions no longer require pre-employment drug testing, but positions involving heavy machinery, pharmacy, or management may still require it.
Can I transfer between Walmart stores?
Yes! After working at Walmart for at least 6 months, you can request a transfer to another location through the internal system. This is great for associates who are relocating.
What is Walmart’s dress code?
Walmart provides a vest for associates. You’ll need to wear solid-color tops (typically blue or white), khaki or black pants, and closed-toe shoes. Specific departments may have additional requirements.
Does Walmart hire felons?
Walmart considers applicants on a case-by-case basis. The company follows “ban the box” policies in many jurisdictions, meaning they don’t ask about criminal history on the initial application. Background check results are evaluated individually.
