Walmart hikes driver pay, unveils private fleet development program
Walmart is unleashing two initiatives to attract and retain drivers. The retailer announced that it is giving pay raises to its approximately 12,000 drivers, and it has launched a private fleet development program.
These latest investments mean Walmart drivers can now make up to $110,000 in their first year with the company. “And that’s just a start — drivers who have been with Walmart longer can earn even more, based on factors like tenure and location,” the retailer said.
“The investments make driving for Walmart’s Private Fleet even more enticing than before, so we’re creating new ways to offer existing Walmart associates opportunities to drive with us.”
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Working at Walmart already includes access to the Live Better U program, where Walmart covers the cost of tuition and books for a college degree and its nationwide network of Walmart Academies. Now, Walmart is launching its first-ever Walmart Private Fleet Development Program. Over the course of a 12-week program, supply chain associates in the Dallas and Dover, Dela., areas earned their commercial driver’s license and became full-fledged Private Fleet Walmart drivers.
“With a massive training infrastructure already built around LBU and Academies, equipping our store and supply chain associates with everything from role-specific skills and leadership skills to college degrees and certifications, the Walmart learning ecosystem stood ready to help launch a driver pipeline program. It just needed teachers. Fortunately, we have some of the best in the business already employed: the established drivers of our Private Fleet," Walmart said.
“Now with another title as Certified Driver Trainers, they turned their attention to training a new generation of associates in our values of safety, courtesy and pride. After completing specialized training in the Walmart Academies, they began working with trainees, teaching written material and, of course, overseeing the actual driving," according to the company.
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At the end of the classroom portion of the training, associates graduate with their CDL through LBU, with months of real-world experience under trained instructors and a dedicated mentor to help them smoothly transition into their new role. "In lieu of a graduation cap, they get something just as distinguished: a Walmart Private Fleet shirt and trucker cap," the chain retailer said.
The investments in pay and training build on multiple recent driver bonuses and improved schedules that enable drivers to spend more time at home. "There’s never been a better time to join our fleet. Once drivers are on board, this is a job many leave only for retirement," the company said.
To apply to drive for Walmart, visit here.