Walmart wage hikes under way in many states

Walmart is beginning to raise wages for workers in several states as part of its employee initiative for fiscal 2015.

Walmart has begun increasing wages to associates in Pennsylvania, Tennessee and other states for the pay period starting April 4. This is the first company-wide increase in wages since its announcement in February to provide even more opportunity for its workers. As of April 4, all Walmart associates earn at least $9 per hour and by February 2016 all current associates will earn at least $10 per hour. Walmart is also raising the floor and ceiling of its in-store pay bands in most stores and is providing raises to associates earning at the maximum of their pay band.

Starting wages are just one part of Walmart’s commitment to providing associates with clearer career opportunities. Through its Opportunity initiative, Walmart is opening doors for existing and new associates by providing increased scheduling flexibility and control, and new training opportunities for continued growth and advancement beyond entry-level jobs.

"A lot of my coworkers are getting raises, and they’re also taking advantage of opportunities for new training,” said Tomas Mendez, a Walmart hourly associate and overnight support manager from Philadelphia. “Not everywhere can you start out making $9 per hour—Walmart’s decision has made a lot of people want to work for our company.”

Walmart is acting purposefully on wages all along the opportunity ladder. For example, the company is reexamining the department manager roles and will raise the starting wage for some of them to at least $13/hour this summer and at least $15/hour early next year. As part of the company’s commitment to associate success, Walmart is also implementing comprehensive changes to its hiring, training, compensation, and scheduling programs, as well as its store structure.

“As an employer and partner, Walmart is an influential contributor to workforce development in our community,” said Keystone Community Education Council Executive Director Lance Hummer. “The company not only provides career opportunities for its own associates, but through the Walmart Foundation it supports programs like the ones at Keystone Community Education Council that boost technical education for Pennsylvanians.”

Walmart associates from Pennsylvania and around the country will have greater choice in their work scheduling to better fit their individual needs. To ensure consistency, some associates will have access to fixed schedules that will not change for at least six months. Associates also will have the option to pick their own shifts or continue to be scheduled systematically based on their availability.

Associates will also be introduced to a new development and training program developed by Walmart workers that allows them to improve and build the skills necessary to grow and enhance their careers. The goal of Walmart’s transformation effort is to set the stage for future associates and showcase the unique ways Walmart offers appropriate onboarding and training. Robust onboarding and training programs are essential for associates and their careers, ensuring a greater chance for promotions and other advancements.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. has 11,053 stores under 71 banners in 27 countries and ecommerce websites in 11 countries.