In August of last year, I started working at an Amazon XL Warehouse to earn some extra income. I wanted to go over it, what the job entails, what I like about it, and what I don't like, etc.
First off, the hours kinda suck no matter how you look at it. It's 3am to 8am where we work. We have to work so early because the truck drivers have to be out by noon or so. It takes approximately five hours for us to sort the packages and another two for the loadout shift to load the trucks.
Also, I wanted to clarify that, as an XL Warehouse, we deal with XL packages only. That means packages are oversized, overlong, or overweight. We routinely deal with packages over 50 pounds, such as televisions, mattresses, bookshelves, generators, and gym equipment. It's a good workout to say the least.
What I have primarily done is sort the XL packages. Sorting involves taking packages off of the Amazon semi-trucks and sorting them onto routes. I, and I'm sure you reading this, perhaps assumed that happened when it got loaded in the truck, but nope. I'm not sure in what order the trucks are loaded, but our job is to take what they have loaded on the truck and organize it better for the drivers so they can deliver the packages efficiently.
There are three primary responsibilities for people that sort. The one you start out with is stowing. Stowers use a hand truck or dolly and take the packages either from the truck or from the floor after they've been "downstacked". That's where the 2nd job comes in. There are usually 1 or 2 downstackers who take pallets off of the truck and downstack them, removing the shrink wrap and moving the packages into an area for stowers to grab. The third job is the inductor, who there is only typically one of but it can be two on busier days. They scan each package's QR code to enter it in our system as received and print out a sticker label showing its route which they then apply onto the package. The scanning and printing of the sticker is all done with the same device. Perhaps you've ever gotten an Amazon package with a colored sticker, about an inch and a half wide? Those are the induction stickers that help Amazon employees know where that package is headed.
I've been trained for all three now, and I enjoy each one differently. Stowing is definitely the easiest, so if I'm very tired that is what I prefer. Although, it can get tedious and boring. But it is the job that makes me take the most steps, sometimes as much as 25,000 in one shift! Downstacking is probably the hardest physically. If anyone downstacks, the first few times doing it are always the toughest. But then you get used to it. Inducting can be tricky if the device is acting up, but the hardest part is when there are a lot of "fluid" trucks. Fluid trucks are when the packages are loosely stored (not shrink-wrapped on a pallet). It's the inductor's responsibility to induct all of the packages on fluid trucks, which involves moving each package so you can get to the ones behind them. The frustrating thing is when the package's shipping label is on the floor, so you have to essentially rotate the package 180 degrees, which can be tough for the heavier packages.
I enjoy the responsibility given to me when I am the inductor, but it can be stressful when there are a lot of fluid trucks or you have stowers waiting on you to induct because you fell behind for whatever reason (for me it's usually the device failing for some reason). It's the absolute worst when there's a ton of fluid, because you have to keep going back and forth between the trucks and the floor, because there will always be stowers who primarily stow what's on the floor and will avoid the trucks at all costs. It's especially annoying when the only packages left are what's on the trucks, which makes you want to yell at the stowers, "Well, if you stowed more from the trucks earlier, there wouldn't be so many left on the trucks now, would there?"
Fortunately, we have a great management team. I've seen them help out whenever there's a lot to do, we're short-staffed, or both. Because they are always willing to help out, I've yet to work a shift where we didn't get done in time. They're also very chill and laid back and easy to talk to. They offered me great support when I first started, showing me how to do things, answering my questions, etc. We usually have a quick team meeting at the start of our shift where they go over how many packages they expect, the number of trucks and routes, and any workplace and safety tips. After we finish stowing all packages, we do a quick check of the packages. Also, we primarily have two types of routes: CP and XL, although there are a couple less common others. CP packages go on hand carts and are up to 70 lbs. in weight. XL packages are typically heavier than 70 lbs. (but not always) and just go on the floor in the designated route area.
We often finish early, giving us time to do some training in the break room or just chillax there. We've got an arcade machine, vending machines, a ping pong table, and even a Nintendo Switch and Xbox. I've played a little of each. I work with some great people, too. Some I can tell that have been there a while, and some I have seniority on. We also have vending machines, a coffee machine (which dispenses coffee in seconds flat with no need for K-Cup or grounds), and even a slushie machine, but the only time I ever saw that used was on my first day, funnily enough. But we often are given snacks on our breaks, we can help ourselves to a water bottle whenever we need, and they occasionally have food like baked goods out for people.
One thing I haven't mentioned is that at least with me, I get to pick what shifts I work. So if there's a particular day I don't want to work, I don't have to. However, shifts can be hard to come by. They fill very fast, so if you don't want one, it doesn't mean you'll get another. You literally have to refresh the schedule page in the A to Z app at the second it turns to 9:30 to snag the shift before other people do. So sometimes, I don't get as many shifts as I'd like, but at least I'm not overworked outside of my control.
All in all, I enjoy this job. It's a good way to make a little extra money at a time when pretty much everyone is available. Yeah, I have to go to bed early and often take a nap after my shifts, but it's also a good workout and I have lost a bit of weight since starting there. I would recommend this job to anyone looking for a good workout, some extra cash, and people okay with operating on about 4 hours of sleep (or people that can go to bed at like 6).
Monday, January 15, 2024
My thoughts about working at an Amazon XL Warehouse
Saturday, November 21, 2020
2020's Highs and Lows
Boy, 2020 has been some year. Most would consider it one of the worst years in recent memory, and I can't argue with them. However, this year isn't without some positive things happening, which I will get into. Some are personal to me, some aren't. But this has certainly been a year I will remember for a long time.
Let's get the bad out of the way first: COVID-19. You knew I was going to mention it. It has put such a damper on the things we usually enjoy in life. The family barbecues, going to sporting events, flying to see relatives, a lot of that most of us cannot enjoy at the moment. These are the things we live for. The things we work 40 hour work weeks for. Instead, we are forced to sequester at home and find other joys in life.
COVID-19 has impacted me both positively and negatively. I did really want to go to a Mariners game and/or a Seahawks game (at least one) this year. I wanted to take Amanda to her first Seahawks game since 2011. I moved this year (closer to my grandparents) and I did want to make an effort to see them more often, but I haven't been able to as they fear catching COVID-19 (and I fear possibly passing it to them). I don't mind spending a lot of time at home finding ways to keep myself occupied/entertained; I usually do that anyway.
But as I said, COVID-19 has had a positive impact on me. Because of the pandemic, I got a new (and better) job. My old job wasn't the best fit, I wasn't making enough, and I didn't really enjoy it. They put me "on standby" in March, which is like a suspension, but without the employee doing anything wrong. I then went on unemployment while I waited for them to possibly take me back. I also used this time to look at other jobs. I slowly and ultimately got to a point where I realized I wanted to use this opportunity to change jobs. I eventually found one in August and I have loved it ever since. I enjoy it so much more, I feel more useful/needed, and I get paid more. It beats my previous job in every way. Even the commute from my current residence is better.
Like I mentioned, I moved this year. Amanda and I are now on our own just the two of us. I really like our new apartment and the complex. We moved right as COVID restrictions were getting put in place. Unfortunately thanks to COVID, we are not able to enjoy the luxurious amenities this complex has. I did use the gym a bit when they opened it for a short time, but it certainly was short-lived as they closed it not long after.
One last good thing that happened--I need to mention it: We will be getting a new president. Thank the lord. Donald Trump has never been fit to be president, and boy is he just an awful human being. He is now refusing to concede the election (pathetic), but regardless, we will be getting a new president in 2021 in Joe Biden. I don't want to get into politics too much in this post, but I know this is a reason for optimism next year for so many people, myself included.
On a more personal level, I really wanted to lose weight this year. Like I mentioned earlier, I made an effort to go to our apartment complex's gym when it was open. I have tried eating healthier, but it's been tough. Now that the holidays are basically here, I might have to focus on losing weight for 2021. I have a few ideas in mind that may help. But I'm no skinnier now than I was at the start of 2020. I'm going to work hard to change that for 2021.
Honestly, 2020 hasn't been too bad for me personally. I've lost out on a few things I would want to do (including going to the movies), but I got a newer better job, I still managed to move during the pandemic, and we will be getting a new president. I don't mind having to wear a mask in any situation. And no one else should mind, either.
But I am really hoping 2021 is an improvement. Hopefully we can eradicate this disease and be able to do all the things we live for again. I don't think our country can take another year of this. I could, but I'd hate to see what happens if this pandemic doesn't at least start going away next year. I will continue at my current job for the foreseeable future as I have no complaints about it. For the first time in a while, I am really looking forward to the following year. In my opinion, 2021 can't get here fast enough. To anyone reading this, let's work hard to make 2021 the opposite of 2020. Wear your mask, socially distance yourself, and be nice to others (even if they're the other political party). Thank you.
Saturday, October 31, 2020
How to be a good boss
I started a new job just over two months ago, and boy is it a good fit for me. I work a regular Monday to Friday schedule, and I am doing things I love doing (working on a computer, with numbers, working on my own). But I'd be lying if I said one of the best things about my job wasn't my boss, Joe. He's awesome. He is exactly as a boss should be. He's only six years older than me, so we can relate on a few things. But it's his managerial style which I think a lot of bosses could learn from. I'm going to say what I think makes a good boss, providing examples from Joe.
- Make yourself approachable to your employees and welcome their questions and feedback
I cannot stress this enough. At my last job, it was definitely hard to approach my bosses and ask them questions. But Joe welcomes questions. Almost on a daily basis Joe says to ask him questions if we're stuck or need help. I'm not the best at asking for help (I'd prefer to figure things out on my own if possible), but he's made it much easier to ask for help. Bosses should never scold or get annoyed with their employees if they ask a question. It's how we learn, get better, and do our job more satisfactorily.
- Know when to put your foot down
So, you want to be nice and everything, but you have to know when to put your foot down. You have to still earn and get respect from your employees. One of my coworkers wasn't doing something right, sort of fibbed to Joe, and Joe put him in his place. Joe was very clear about what he expects of him. If you lay down the law in front of your employees just one time, that should be lasting enough for them to respect their boss for a long time.
- Treat your employees for doing a good job
Probably my favorite thing my boss does is he treats us when we do a good job. He's treated us to lunch a few times, and he's given us things for our desks. Bosses treating their employees for doing a good job encourages them to continue to do a good job. He also often offers a word of encouragement when we do a good job as well. Those little comments go a long way, especially when they're sincere.
- Make sure your employees are comfortable with their working conditions
My boss is very aware of if we are uncomfortable with any aspect of our working conditions. He has said to me on numerous occasions that if there's anything I need I should ask or tell him. I know not every boss has the time for this, but if you provide an avenue, portal, or any way for your employees to reach out to you, that can be hugely beneficial to the workplace. It could be an email, a bulletin notice, or anything little like that. But my boss Joe lets us know in person. It helps we have such a small office.
- Lead by example
You can't expect your employees to do a good job if you don't do a good job as their boss. There's also little things you do--how organized you keep your workspace, how you handle customers/clients, and how you treat other employees. A lot of inexperienced/younger employees look to their boss on how to act and carry themselves. My boss Joe does a great job of carrying himself and leading by example. I'll say he doesn't always dress the most professionally (wears flip flops, for example), but we don't ever meet clients in person, so it doesn't matter. I could probably wear flip flops if I wanted to, but I'd rather set my own example.
- Enjoy your work so that your employees will too
If you've progressed through a field far enough to have employees underneath you, you probably like the field you're in. And when a boss enjoys their work, it really becomes contagious. I can tell Joe really likes his job and is passionate about it, and he makes me want to be passionate about my own job. I know this ties in a lot to the one above, but I thought it deserved it's own mention.
Well, that's all I have. Mainly, my advice to any bosses out there is to treat your employees the way you would want to be treated. Put yourself in your employees' shoes and act like how you'd want your boss to act. It will go a long way. And, happy employees often make for success in business. It's win-win.
Monday, November 25, 2019
Thoughts on My New Job
I currently work technically with two companies. My official employer (the one that appears on my paycheck) is Aviation Spares and Services International Company (ASSIC). I’ve always liked how they had to add the “International Company” because otherwise the company is ASS. 😂😂 Anyway, ASSIC is pretty small, at least in our office, comprising of only two in-office employees, who I work next to. Then, there is Global Inflight Products (GIP). They comprise of about 15 employees. Then there are three boss people, the Chairman/President: Zine Badissy, the CEO: Liza Benzaoui, and the Vice President: Farjam Majd. We also have a downstairs office that has accounting and marketing/design (two people each). ASSIC provides spare airplane parts (generally small ones) to different aviation companies, and they often ask for quotes on parts and people ask for quotes from them. GIP manufactures and distributes airline products for international flights, everything from cups, plates, towels, blankets, utensils, and headphones. ASSIC and GIP work together under the Air Transport Support Group (ATSG).
My official position is office assistant. I am technically also a receptionist, but I feel that has a bit of feminine connotation. Nothing wrong with a guy doing a job typically done by a female, however. I answer the phone and transfer to the appropriate person if necessary, and I occasionally will answer some basic questions. Aside from answering the phone, the main thing I do is special projects for Mr. Badissy, the chairman and president of both ASSIC and GIP. He has me compile financial reports for his farm business, for his business expenses, and for his travel expenses. Generally, those projects take 3-5 days to do, which is good because Mr. Badissy is out of the office on most Thursdays and Fridays. I have also emailed different people for him and even mailed a package for him.
I am also slowly transitioning to being the office administrator (not officially) by doing tasks that help the office run smoothly. I often go down to the storeroom to get supplies such as jugs for the water cooler, paper towels, and toilet paper. I am now the person people tell to order office supplies, although I do not order them myself. Instead, I give a list of supplies to accounting and they order them.
As for my thoughts on my job, I would have to say I like my job pretty well. It’s certainly not perfect, but what job is? Sometimes my boss, Mr. Badissy, can be hard to understand in what he wants, but I do my best, and he’s been pretty understanding and patient with me as well. I don’t make as much as I did in my final years at Safeway, but it’s a consistent paycheck with consistent hours. I am no longer an hourly wage employee; I am a salary employee now. And instead of getting paid every week, I get paid every two weeks. That part does not bother me, but what does bother me a bit is that my paycheck every two weeks is an actual check; I must go to the bank and deposit it and there is no direct deposit option.
I don’t know how long I plan on working with ASSIC/GIP. They have this thing in my agreement of employment that I have to pay back any bonuses I earn if I quit within two years. I have yet to see a bonus and I think those are more for sales managers. Not only that, but if I want to quit, they want me to give them a month’s notice. So, with that and my Monday-Friday 7:30-4 work schedule, it becomes very difficult for me to potentially get another job. Honestly, after not working for almost five months, I am just happy I have a job and one that pays steadily. There’s not really an opportunity for advancement, not that I’d really want to. I’ve never been a good person for sales, having dipped my toes into the sales swimming pool and not liking what I felt.
I have the added bonus of working near Amanda. She is about a 15-20 minute walk away, and I work exactly one hour earlier than her, so I can wait for her to get off if I want. I have the option of taking the bus to work if I desire. My commute is fairly short, taking 15-20 minutes to drive in the morning (usually), and 20-30 minutes to drive home. So location-wise, my job is pretty perfect, considering alternative jobs I looked at could have me commute to downtown Seattle or south Bellevue.
I honestly like my job. There have been a few times that I haven’t liked it, but as a whole I do like working at ASSIC/GIP. I like the people I work with, and I get to interact with people from a wide variety of backgrounds as we have a very diverse office. I’ve even gone out to lunch with them a couple times already. I am going to continue working at ASSIC/GIP and see what happens and what skills I can pick up.