Amazon employees at the RDU1 fulfillment center in Garner, just south of Raleigh, are voting today on whether to unionize, a decision that could impact the company's operations in North Carolina.
The union effort at RDU1 stems from concerns raised by some Raleigh-based employees regarding workplace conditions, wages and job security within the facility, according to Reuters.
"Amazon already offers what many unions are requesting: safe, inclusive workplaces, competitive pay, industry-leading benefits—including health care on day one, pre-paid college tuition, and a 401(k) with company match—and opportunities for career growth,” Amazon spokesperson Eileen Hard previously told WUNC.
At RDU1, Amazon recently raised its starting wage to $18.50 per hour following a $1.50 increase in September 2024. The company employs over 4,000 people at this facility, with more than 7,000 employees across its 11 sites in the Raleigh metropolitan area, according to an Oxford Economics study.
“The average pay for customer fulfillment and operations roles is currently over $22 per hour, with total compensation exceeding $29 per hour when including the value of elected benefits,” Amazon states on its website. “Depending on the position and location, employees can earn between $18.50 and $29.50 per hour.”
Discussions among Amazon employees on Reddit reveal concerns that unionization could disrupt the current work environment, limit flexibility and introduce unnecessary complications. Some employees believe Amazon already provides competitive compensation and benefits and worry that union involvement could affect job security.
The company has stated that unionization could create barriers to direct communication between employees and management, potentially complicating issue resolution processes that are currently streamlined through direct feedback channels.
Amazon’s comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, paid parental leave and paid time off—often starting from day one, is highlighted in the Oxford Economics study. In North Carolina, which ranks 11th nationally for uninsured rates, these benefits are significant.
Amazon also invests in career development through its Career Choice program, which pre-pays tuition for hourly workers pursuing in-demand skills.
At RDU1, more than 1,000 employees have used this program, focusing on fields such as healthcare, IT, and advanced manufacturing.
“Amazon’s Career Choice program has been a significant driver of community support,” Ashley Cagle, Assistant Executive Director for Wake County Economic Development said. “It provides tangible opportunities for skill-building and long-term career growth.”
Since 2010 as part of over $12 billion outlay in North Carolina, Amazon has invested over $3 billion in the Raleigh area, creating more than 7,000 direct jobs and supporting an estimated 10,000 additional indirect jobs in sectors like logistics, construction and professional services.