Amazon to open distribution center in Shafter

Amazon announced recently that they will open a distribution center in Shafter, making it the

second facility to open in Kern County.

Amazon opened a facility iu Bakersfield last year.

The new facility is expected to launch later this year. 

The facility will be over one million square feet and will have associates packing and shipping

items to customers throughout the region. Items will include everything from apparel to

accessories and footwear.

It will mean around 1,000 jobs, both full-time and part-time, with a starting salary of $1`5 per

hour. Included in the positions are a variety of benefit packages for full time employees.

Amazon will also be hiring for roles in human resources, operations management, safety,

security, finance, and information technology.

"Amazon is excited to make this investment in Kern County that will support local economic

development and help us deliver to our growing number of customers in the region. As we

continue to grow in California, we are contributing to the economic recovery in the Southern

California and across the state," said Jordan Nelson, Director of Regional Operations for

Amazon.

The company also offers up to 20 weeks of maternal and parental paid leave and innovative

benefits such as Leave Share and Ramp Back, which give new parents flexibility with their

growing families.

With the pandemic forcing cities to look for ways to face challenges for economic growth, the

city of Shafter has seen its position as a destination for major companies remain stable,

continuing to draw major retailers and businesses. Shafter's foresight into future needs of these

companies is a big asset that has paid dividends. According to Business Development Director

Bob Meadows, the fiber optic network that the city has, which is the only one of its kind in all of

Kern County, is a major draw, as well as its desirable location and its rail facilities. "Shafter has

a lot of assets that these companies are looking for, making us a great destination for those in

need of perfect pipeline form the major cities to the north and the south."

Shafter's mayor Cathy Prout said that Shafter has remained competitive and in a strong position

for major companies. "During unprecedented times, cities nationwide are dealing with economic

growth or the negative impacts these challenging times bring. For Shafter, this is not the case.

We remain competitive and continue to welcome new businesses, such as Amazon, who are

eager to pursue success and bring new jobs to Shafter."