Does Walmart Hire Senior Citizens?
Yes, Walmart hires senior citizens. The upper age bar differs from the Walmart location. They are mostly preferred for light part-time or full-time jobs that do not require much physical and mental work. Availability of such shifts is also an issue.
As per its policies, Walmart does not discriminate against applicants on age grounds. In some cases, they have hired people above the age of 80. There are provisions for annual raises in salaries. The employees may also be considered depending on their work performance. The application process is simple. Your health status is taken into consideration before hiring.
Where does Walmart Operate?
Walmart Supercentres, discount stores, and Neighborhood Markets operate in more than 40 locations in the US itself. All significant states, Arizona, New York, New Jersey, Michigan, California, Washington, and Texas, have their stores. In addition, Walmart operates 122 stores in Canada, 2,764 in Mexico, and 390 stores in China. Walmart is also carrying out ventures in India.
What is the Application Process?
Step 1: You will be required to fill out an application form which takes 15-20 minutes on average. The assessment time is usually 30 minutes and can be more for some specific positions.
Note: For hourly positions, you do not require a CV.
Step 2: The applications will be visited, and positions and shifts will be matched. Selected candidates will be called for an interview.
Step 3: You need to go through a background check and drug screening once selected.
Step 4: The finally selected candidates will be employed and start with an orientation.
You can start your job now!
Positions best for seniors
Now that you know the process of joining Walmart, you might be thinking about what roles you should apply for.
Here are some most suitable positions for senior citizens:
Greeter: Important and easy. You have to greet the customers and check their receipts when they leave. A greeter’s job is generally preferred if you don’t wish to or cannot keep walking or standing. Starting income ranges from $9-$10 hourly. Cashier: If you can stand for long hours, this job is for you. Without many technicalities and strenuous tasks, this position offers a decent salary, starting with an average of $12 hourly. Member Specialist: Duties are many but straightforward. They may range from assisting a store member to solving the doubts of a customer. Examining the stock, its quality, and expiry may also come under this job. Cart Attendant/Janitorial: This job keeps you active, allowing you to walk while pulling the carts back. The salary of a Janitorial begins at approximately $9 hourly. Truck Driver: If you are looking for high-paying jobs and don’t need to stay home every day, this job is suited. Walmart truck drivers earn an annual of about $87,000 with bonuses. You can spend family time once a week.
Problems Faced by the Elderly Employees
According to some senior employees, they have been given shifts that no one else accepts. Sometimes they shift them to even lower roles if the output is slower. Some employees believe that even after the Equal Employment Opportunity Policy was enforced, a senior citizen’s work, speed, and accuracy are highly stereotyped and often more scrutinized than their younger co-workers.
Any discrimination, derogatory remarks, and infringement of rights of a senior citizen at the workplace can complain to the US EEOC within 180 days of the incident.
Perks and Benefits
Walmart gives its employees some benefits irrespective of their age.
Medical assistance: Part-time and full-time associates are enrolled in various life and health covers—Walmart partners with healthcare facilities to provide healthcare support under the given schemes. Emotional Support: Face to face, free of cost counseling sessions by a licensed therapist is offered to the employees for their emotional well-being. Three such free-of-cost sessions can be accessed annually. Discounts: Company employees and their family members get a 10% discount on all Walmart stores. Walton Life Fitness Pass: A $9 gym membership is offered to the associates at their fitness centers.
Conclusion
Age is no bar to a fulfilling life. There are plenty of opportunities at Walmart that suit your age, skill, and requirement. You can still be an asset to the company if you work a little less and a little slow. With so many benefits and easy-going jobs, don’t miss the opportunity for your stable golden years.
Frequently asked Questions
Are senior citizens paid less?
They are not allowed to discriminate based on age. But, senior citizens covered under social security schemes are paid according to rules set by the government. The salary may be subjected to annual raises.
Am I a senior citizen?
The age criteria for classifying people as seniors is unclear. A person at the age of 62 or above is generally accepted as a senior citizen in the US. But it varies with schemes and benefits. E.g., For medical assistance, the age is 65. For the hiring process at Walmart, different stores have set different upper age limits.
Will I be considered for higher positions if I have the required qualifications?
The kind of job given will largely depend on health status. Higher qualifications and good health can lead you into higher roles like staff pharmacist, Accountant II, or Senior Accountant. You can also start with minor work and get promoted to higher positions based on your performance.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes, international candidates can apply. They are also given benefits like sponsorship for work visas and permanent residence for some specified managerial positions.
