Walmart launches optician career path; ups pay for general maintenance techs
Walmart is expanding its training programs and increasing wages for employees in select roles.
The retail giant is launching a program, called “Associate to Optician,” that provides its employees with training to become licensed opticians. The no-cost program is designed for employees who currently work outside a Walmart Vision Center or Sam’s Club Optical Center to have a pathway into the field. It is being offered through Walmart’s free “Live Better U” education benefit.
Associates who are new to vision care can earn a fully funded associate degree in Optical Science through Live Better U while completing hands-on clinical training. The program saves associates more than $20,000 in education costs compared to if they were to pursue the certification outside the program, according to Walmart.
“By covering tuition and fees and providing hands-on learning, we're helping remove financial barriers while preparing associates for a licensed healthcare profession,” Donna Morris, executive VP and chief people officer, Walmart Inc., wrote in a blog on the company’s website.
Currently, licensed opticians at Walmart and Sam's Club earn an average starting wage of approximately $33.75 per hour, depending on market and licensing requirements.
Technicians
In addition, Walmart is expanding its “Associate to Technician” program, which create pathways in skilled trades careers such as HVAC, refrigeration and electrical systems, with a new training site in Atlanta. The company is also adding a new pay structure for Walmart U.S. and Sam’s Club real estate facility services.
For example, currently, the pay range for a general maintenance technician role is $19 to $35, and with this investment, it will now be $26 to $51, approximately 40% higher.
“These programs build on our first pathway program, Associate to Driver, which has helped more than 1,000 associates can earn their Commercial Driver's License while remaining employed and paid throughout training, with Walmart covering the cost of education, certifications and lodging,” Morris wrote.
Morris noted 75% of Walmart salaried managers started as hourly associates.
"When we invest in helping associates build skills, earn credentials and pursue new opportunities, we strengthen our business while creating pathways for people to build lasting careers," she wrote.
Based in Bentonville, Ark., Walmart Inc. runs 10,900 stores and numerous e-commerce websites in 19 countries.
