CamperForce Newsletter June 2012
Content
Amazon CamperForce Newsletter
Camper Check List
V O L U M E I , I S S U E 5 J U N E 2 0 1 2
CamperForce Role in Security & Loss Prevention
Here at Amazon, we are proactive in protecting our people as well as preventing workplace violence. Potential workplace violence can take many different forms, which include verbal threats, intimidation, and physical contact. Amazon’s “Lose your temper, lose your job” stance states: “Amazon is committed to providing a safe and welcoming working environment where all employees treat each other with respect and dignity. Unfortunately, conflicts sometimes arise between individuals. Disagreements, of course, will occur, but how you conduct yourself can affect others and, if inappropriate, can affect whether you will continue in your employment in our workplace.” So when the frustration begins to build a bit, take a deep breath and remember why we’re here: To make the Holidays bright for our customers wherever they are!
Make Campground Reservations. Provide Educational Verification to your CamperForce Team. Take inventory of your fitness level
INSIDE THIS ISSUE What is S&LP? Get through Security Issue Free On the Road
1 2
Security Check Point
When most of our associates think of Security at Amazon, they think of the Security Checkpoint. Each day, thousands of Amazon associates travel through the security checkpoint on their way to break, lunch, or home. In this issue of the CamperForce Newsletter we’ll discuss ways to get through the checkpoint more effectively during your time here at Amazon.
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Site Info
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Security & Loss Prevention
When most folks think of Security at Amazon they think of our Security Officers, or the “Randomizer” that all Amazon associates must pass through; but Security at Amazon is much more than that. In protecting people, the Security & Loss prevention Team ensures that facilities are designed and equipped to allow associates access, but not unauthorized personnel. Access points are tested and audited regularly as part of weekly and quarterly drills, and site risk assessments as well as Peer Reviews are conducted regularly. The Security & Loss prevention Team also facilitates quarterly Emergency Response training in specific disciplines for managers. In addition, the Security & Loss Prevention Team is trained at assessing actions and behaviors consistent with potential workplace violence. Another crucial area of focus is protection of Data. Security & Loss Prevention works with our Fulfillment Center IT Team and site leadership to secure customer data, associate data, and proprietary information through simulated breaches, and audits for properly shredding sensitive information. So when you think of Security at Amazon, remember; there’s much more than meets the eye!
Campground Reservation Guidelines
5
Facebook Contest Around the Campfire
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How to Get Through Security Screening Issue Free
In the Fulfillment Center, getting lots of folks through the security screening process in a short amount of time is a challenging proposition. Here some tips that will assist you in getting through issue free: Items not to bring into the warehouse: Phones, electronics, cigarettes, lighters and knives are not allowed on the production floor. Leave these items in your locker. Remember that no weapons are allowed on Amazon premises. Items that delay screening:
Our Mission:
The Randomizer determines whether you go through or around the Security Checkpoint.
les, metal jewelry, such as bracelets, are all items that can delay screening by alerting the metal detector. This scanner is similar to those in airports. When the metal detector is alerted you must take the items out of your pockets and pass through the scanner again. The process continues until no alert is determined. Sometimes our Security team will use a wand to assist in this effort. You may be asked to raise your pant legs, empty your pockets, raise your cap, as well as other precautionary measures also. What about sweatshirts, jackets, and vests?
You should wear your outerwear through the metal detectors. Whatever is not worn through has to be hand screened additionally. Wear head gear and gloves through, too. Anything put on the slide table must be screened by the security officer, which takes more time. Bags & Packages: Purses, food/drink containers, etc. will be opened for inspection upon exiting. Associates may be asked to move or remove contents in order to complete a full inspection. Clear, seethrough fanny packs or bags are best so they can be inspected quickly.
Coins, car keys, metal watches, metal belt buck-
“To be Earth's most customer-centric company where people can find and discover anything they want to buy online.”
Important Contact Information
Coffeyville
2654 N. Highway 169 Coffeyville, KS 67337 (620) 464-2265 (620) 464-2123 fax [email protected]
Campbellsville
1050 S. Columbia Ave. Campbellsville, KY 42718 (270) 849-2604 (270) 849-2701 fax [email protected]
Fernley
1600 E. Newlands Drive Fernley, NV 89408 775-575-8045 (775) 575-8058 fax [email protected]
Our Security Officers work hard to ensure the safety of thousands of Amazon associates each day.
CamperForce Benefits
Working with other CamperForce Associates
One benefit we don’t mention enough is the opportunity to work with other CamperForce associates just like yourself. In Campbellsville, Coffeyville, and Fernley you’ll build relationships with new friends and renew old acquaintances as the hundreds of CamperForce associates who agreed to work with us this season arrive in our facilities. You’ll work with each other, then socialize with one another outside of work. What a great benefit!
A M A Z O N
C A M P E R F O R C E
N E W S L E T T E R
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Upcoming Events
Your CamperForce Team will be back out on the road over the course of the next few weeks. If you’re in the area stop by and see us! The Good Sam Rally Louisville, KY June 21st—24th
Iowa State Samboree
Amana, IA
June 21st—24th
Holiday Inn Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge, TN
June 26th—27th
On the road at the Good Sam Tennessee State Samboree in Lebanon, TN. May 2012.
2012 RVW Nat’l Convention
Gillette, WY
July 5th—9th
FMCA 87th Family Reunion
Indianapolis, IN
Aug. 27th—30th
Escapees 52nd Escapade
Sedalia, MO
Sept. 16th—21st
Life isn’t easy on the road….. somehow we manage!
From Tampa, FL. To Quartzsite, AZ. And all points in between, the CamperForce team attends various events each season telling good people about the opportunities at Amazon!
CamperForce on the Road
A M A Z O N
C A M P E R F O R C E
N E W S L E T T E R
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News From Each Site
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Fernley News Flash
Presenting Fernley’s Top FAQs!
What are the day shift and night shift hours? Day shift is 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and night shift is 6:00 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. You will get one 30-minute lunch and a morning and afternoon break. Does Amazon arrange carpools? While we are unable to directly arrange carpooling, there will be a “Meet and Greet” opportunity at the very end of your first day (Orientation) with us. Here, you will have a chance to meet other campers, and arrange things like carpooling and dog-walking. Finally, while shift assignments will not be provided until your start date, our Facebook page (facebook.com/amazoncamperforce) is also a great avenue to make connections with other campers you’ll be working with this fall. How will the background check and drug screen be conducted? For your background check, we’ll have you fill out a form authorizing a background check to be conducted. For the drug screen, we work with LabCorp, which has labs all across the nation, and the cost will be covered by Amazon. We’ll reach out to you to initiate both of these items closer to your start date. When will I know my start date? As our start dates are based on business need, we are unable to predict them too far in advance. We are planning on having 4 or 5 different start dates in order to work with our campers’ busy schedules and prior obligations. We plan on bringing campers onsite as early as the beginning of October and as late as the beginning of November. We know you’re anxious to know your start date, but rest assured that we will let you know as soon as possible! We anticipate being able to provide this information to you by August, at which point you can contact your campground and let them know your exact date of arrival.
Campbellsville Corner
One of the recurring questions we get here at SDF-1 is “When will we get start dates?” We know how frustrating it can be when you don’t know your start date, so we want to take some of the mystery away from the process. So how are start dates determined? Each year our financial teams, both here and in Seattle determine our labor staffing needs for the holiday season based on business models, projections, and past history. In the months leading up to the 4th quarter, they’ve studied and analyzed what our labor staffing needs will be. Once those determinations have been made, they’ll give us start dates and the number of CamperForce associates needed to start each week. During Peak season, typically we’ll have a new group starting each week through early November. In example, September 9th may be our first start date, and on that date we may need 75 CamperForce associates to start. Finance will tell us what departments and shifts need staffing as well as the number needed. The CamperForce team will look at the information you provided during your telephone interview regarding your availability date and preferences with the available positions and shifts. We take your preferences into account and try to accommodate your requests, but sometimes it just isn’t possible. Positions are filled based upon the needs of Amazon at the time of arrival and quite often those needs change frequently. Usually, we’ll have a much better idea about start dates later in the summer, usually around July. We’ll let you know ASAP!
Coffeyville Chronicle
It’s June but let’s prepare for all four seasons! As a traveler, you understand the importance of being prepared to face all kinds of weather! Southeast Kansas sees most of its winter precipitation during the mid-January through late February time. Thinking about the weather issues that can arise during your fall/winter assignment can keep you one step ahead of averting a disaster with your rig! Here are a few tips: If your coach isn’t well insulated or doesn’t have a basement, it may be worth adding some skirting over some form of insulation. Use public showers if available. If your hot water tank has been emptied, this will decrease the odds of water lines freezing! Frozen sewer hoses can be a nightmare and cause unwanted delays in dumping. During the winter, only open your drain valve at drain time. After each dumping, add a cup of non-toxic antifreeze into the black and grey tanks! Dumping is certainly possible in the late fall and winter months and with some short study on how to stay warm and keep your lines free from freeze, you can rest with ease! Thank you for reading and we look forward to meeting you all very soon! If you have any questions or concerns ahead of your arrival, please feel free to reach out to our team at the Amazon Kansas Fulfillment Center. Coffeyville, FYI: Start dates available! If you have not discussed a starting time-frame with Paul or Mike, please call 620-464-2665 to arrange your tentative start date. See you soon!
Volume I, Issue 5
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Campground Reservation Guidelines
We are excited about you joining us in the fall for the 2012 Holiday Peak Season! A smooth transition from “road mode” to “camp mode” begins with good communications concerning your campground reservations. This information will guide you through that process so that you can be assured there is a place for you when you arrive at your destination. Although Amazon is not and does not want to be in the campground business, it is important to us that you have campground accommodations that meet your needs and desires. It is equally important that we know which campground you have chosen, and any changes that may occur before and during your stay. Therefore, please use the following guidelines when you plan your stay: 1. Make a reservation: It is up to you to make a reservation at the campground of your choice. You will be provided with the campground information for all campgrounds with site openings. We suggest you make the reservation as soon as possible after you have completed the initial hiring process. 2. Call our Amazon CamperForce hotline or email us: Please call your location (contact info is found on page 2 of the Newsletter) or email them and let them know where you have a reservation. We need your name, contact information in case we have a question, and the name of the campground where you have the reservation. 3. Keep in touch with your campground: Make sure your campground has your updated contact information, and inform them of any changes in your hire date, travel plans, etc. 4. What Amazon pays for: We know you may need a few days to rest up and set up camp before you start work; and may need a day in final preparation to hit the road again. Therefore, in addition to paying the campground for your campsite for all days of your employment, Amazon will also pay for two days before your start date and one day after your release date. If you decide to come earlier or stay later, those arrangements are between you and the campground owner. 5. If you change your campgrounds before you arrive: We understand you may want to change from one campground to another before your arrival. For example, you initially booked at campground A and then found out you have friends coming, and they are booked at Campground B. It’s OK to change the reservations as long as (a) the original campground is notified before your arrival and the reservation there is cancelled; and (b) the new campground of your choice can accommodate you. If you make such a change, you must also notify Amazon. (see #2 above). 6. If you change campgrounds after you arrive: We understand that there may also be some movement between campgrounds (premium site at another campground opens up or you want to be next to your friends, for example). We don’t have any issues with someone moving as long as the original campground is notified in a timely manner and the new campground can accommodate the move. Be sure you vacate the site before the checkout time, or you may be held responsible for the extra day! If you make a move for any reason, the same guidelines apply, including notifying Amazon of the move! On behalf of the Amazon CamperForce Staff and the Campground Owners, we appreciate your cooperation with these reservation guidelines. We sincerely hope your stay is comfortable and rewarding!
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Amazon Acronyms
If you are new to the Amazon CamperForce program we want to help you become familiar with the language we speak! There are some words we use that have very specific meanings and can seem like a foreign language. We’ll introduce them to you now, so when you arrive you can speak like a true Amazonian! ERC (Employee Resource Center): This group of Amazon HR professionals in Seattle help answer associate questions and requests. Associates can call them directly at 888-892-7180 between 9am - 9pm EST. UPH (Units Per Hour): Standard of productivity measurement. Refers to how many units (items) received, stowed, packed, etc. per hour.
Referrals
Meet Jose & Jill Ferrer. This great couple has referred several candidates for Campbellsville, Coffeyville & Fernley this season! Jose and Jill have been fulltime RVers for almost 10 years, and author their website, www.your-rv-lifestyle.com Some years have been spent fully engaged in travel: throughout the USA, into Mexico and Canada, and last summer in a rented RV in Europe. Some years they combine both work and play, earning some extra income and sightseeing famous and not-so-famous places. They plan to return to Amazon for their 4th season this fall. Their 1st year they worked as Stowers in Cofffeyville, KS. The last few years they have been Pickers in Campbellsville, KY. "We like the walking (10- 15 miles a day). It's a good job because we get our exercise as well as our wages." Jose and Jill share their CamperForce experience with others and submit referrals from potential candidates. "We try to set realistic expectations. Amazon has been very clear that the jobs can be physically demanding, so we always tell interested RVers that they should expect long hours on their feet. But we also let them know that they will be in good company, with fellow RVers and Amazon associates working together as Santa's helpers". Thanks Jose & Jill! Keep those referrals coming in! You can earn Referral Bonuses, just like Jose & Jill! The process is very simple:
1. To refer a potential candidate, please fill out the referral form you received in your new hire packet and return it
via email or fax to the location you’ll be working at this season 2. You are eligible for a referral bonus when you refer a potential candidate that hasn’t previously worked for Amazon before and is not currently interviewing for an open position.
3. If the candidate you refer is hired and indicates during the interview process that you referred them, you will receive a $50 bonus after the new associate has worked for Amazon.com for 30 days. You must completely fill out the CamperForce Referral Form at the time of referral and be employed by Amazon.com at the time the referral is eligible to be paid in order to receive the bonus. Employees involved in the hiring decisions are not eligible for a referral bonus.
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Amazon CamperForce Facebook Page
By now, many of you have seen the Facebook “Like” icon contained in the CamperForce team’s email signatures. If you have not already done so, we encourage you to log onto:
www.facebook.com/amazoncamperforce
and “Like” our page! We will post weekly updates and hope to use the page as an interactive forum for campers to ask questions, share stories, and meet other campers joining our program this fall.
Thank you for all the “Likes” we received on Facebook last month! We hope our lucky winners enjoyed their T-shirts—we sure enjoyed seeing pictures of you wearing them! Due to the overwhelming response we received, we will be hosting another giveaway this month! To enter, please answer the below question in an email to [email protected]. The first 25 correct answers will receive a limited edition Peak 2011 t-shirt, sizes based on supplies available. Selected winners must be fans of our Facebook page.
Question: What does the Amazon acronym “ASIN” stand for?
Those who have already received a T-shirt from our last giveaway will not be eligible for this giveaway. Good luck, and we look forward to seeing you in our shirts!
*Amazon Standard Identification Number
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AROUND THE CAMPFIRE
This month’s edition of Around the Campfire features CamperForce associates from each of our CamperForce locations: Campbellsville, Coffeyville, and Fernley!
Cathy Dunican
Cathy will return to Campbellsville this year following a great 2011 peak season in Picking. Cathy has been a full timer for 2 years and has worked in, and visited Arizona, West Yellowstone, Montana, Florida, Missouri, Michigan, Utah & Kentucky. Her hobbies include crocheting, reading, hiking, and anything to do with water! When asked what she enjoyed most about Amazon, Cathy said, “ The people I met. I had a wonderful manager and great group of pickers! Everyone was helpful and friendly and it made the job enjoyable. The CamperForce HR staff was awesome!” Her tips for our new CamperForce associates? “Buy good quality, comfy tennis shoes with thick soles and get inserts for them. Walk in them before you start at Amazon in order to break them in. Capris are great to wear, good for the hot areas and cold as they cover a bit more of your leg than shorts.”
Chris Hill & Joyce Vito
Chris Hill & Joyce Vito took the plunge to become CamperForce associates at TUL-1 for our 2011 Peak Season. Chris is originally from the great state of Tennessee, while Joyce hails from beautiful, Maryland. While working in Coffeyville, this dynamic duo developed their Amazon shipping prowess! When asked about what they liked best about Amazon, they said, “The friendly people we worked with.” Chris and Joyce still remain in contact with their Amazon friends and look forward to reconnecting this fall. When not working, some of this couples hobbies include fishing, hunting, watching sports, doing word games, walking & playing with their dogs. Interestingly enough, Joyce has worked for the Baltimore Ravens and the Jacksonville Jaguars! Chris is a mechanical-savvy guy with the ability to build complex equipment. This couples travels have taken them to the Florida, Georgia, the Sugar Beet Harvest, and KOA campgrounds in Texas. We are delighted to have them back in Coffeyville for Peak Season 2012! Joyce has a tip for new CamperForce associates: “Buy good fitting, support shoes—you’ll need them!”
Walt & Kellie Gunn
Walt & Kellie Gunn, from Calaveras County, California, worked at Fernley for the past two Peak seasons. They racked up two years of experience in Shipping and enjoyed meeting new people and seeing new processes. They have been full-timing for the last 10 years, and enjoy woodcarving, beading, 4-wheeling, fishing, gourds, and anything related to the outdoors! They are proud members of the Escapees RV Club; Kelly worked as Seminar Coordinator for 7 years and Walt is the all-around "Go To Guy." A little known fact is that between the two of them, Walt and Kellie have 18 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren! The Gunns have traveled in 32 states and worked in 7, the longest stint having been four summers in Utah, near Bryce Canyon. They used to ride horses in the back country and fish in the San Joaquin Delta. To those new to the program, Walt and Kellie advise: “You will get out of your experience what you put into it. Keep an open mind, don't be afraid to ask questions and get involved in your area. Yes it is work, but it can be fun work, too! Find some comfortable shoes and clothes…this is not a suit and tie affair.”
Camper Check List
V O L U M E I , I S S U E 5 J U N E 2 0 1 2
CamperForce Role in Security & Loss Prevention
Here at Amazon, we are proactive in protecting our people as well as preventing workplace violence. Potential workplace violence can take many different forms, which include verbal threats, intimidation, and physical contact. Amazon’s “Lose your temper, lose your job” stance states: “Amazon is committed to providing a safe and welcoming working environment where all employees treat each other with respect and dignity. Unfortunately, conflicts sometimes arise between individuals. Disagreements, of course, will occur, but how you conduct yourself can affect others and, if inappropriate, can affect whether you will continue in your employment in our workplace.” So when the frustration begins to build a bit, take a deep breath and remember why we’re here: To make the Holidays bright for our customers wherever they are!
Make Campground Reservations. Provide Educational Verification to your CamperForce Team. Take inventory of your fitness level
INSIDE THIS ISSUE What is S&LP? Get through Security Issue Free On the Road
1 2
Security Check Point
When most of our associates think of Security at Amazon, they think of the Security Checkpoint. Each day, thousands of Amazon associates travel through the security checkpoint on their way to break, lunch, or home. In this issue of the CamperForce Newsletter we’ll discuss ways to get through the checkpoint more effectively during your time here at Amazon.
3
Site Info
4
Security & Loss Prevention
When most folks think of Security at Amazon they think of our Security Officers, or the “Randomizer” that all Amazon associates must pass through; but Security at Amazon is much more than that. In protecting people, the Security & Loss prevention Team ensures that facilities are designed and equipped to allow associates access, but not unauthorized personnel. Access points are tested and audited regularly as part of weekly and quarterly drills, and site risk assessments as well as Peer Reviews are conducted regularly. The Security & Loss prevention Team also facilitates quarterly Emergency Response training in specific disciplines for managers. In addition, the Security & Loss Prevention Team is trained at assessing actions and behaviors consistent with potential workplace violence. Another crucial area of focus is protection of Data. Security & Loss Prevention works with our Fulfillment Center IT Team and site leadership to secure customer data, associate data, and proprietary information through simulated breaches, and audits for properly shredding sensitive information. So when you think of Security at Amazon, remember; there’s much more than meets the eye!
Campground Reservation Guidelines
5
Facebook Contest Around the Campfire
7
8
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How to Get Through Security Screening Issue Free
In the Fulfillment Center, getting lots of folks through the security screening process in a short amount of time is a challenging proposition. Here some tips that will assist you in getting through issue free: Items not to bring into the warehouse: Phones, electronics, cigarettes, lighters and knives are not allowed on the production floor. Leave these items in your locker. Remember that no weapons are allowed on Amazon premises. Items that delay screening:
Our Mission:
The Randomizer determines whether you go through or around the Security Checkpoint.
les, metal jewelry, such as bracelets, are all items that can delay screening by alerting the metal detector. This scanner is similar to those in airports. When the metal detector is alerted you must take the items out of your pockets and pass through the scanner again. The process continues until no alert is determined. Sometimes our Security team will use a wand to assist in this effort. You may be asked to raise your pant legs, empty your pockets, raise your cap, as well as other precautionary measures also. What about sweatshirts, jackets, and vests?
You should wear your outerwear through the metal detectors. Whatever is not worn through has to be hand screened additionally. Wear head gear and gloves through, too. Anything put on the slide table must be screened by the security officer, which takes more time. Bags & Packages: Purses, food/drink containers, etc. will be opened for inspection upon exiting. Associates may be asked to move or remove contents in order to complete a full inspection. Clear, seethrough fanny packs or bags are best so they can be inspected quickly.
Coins, car keys, metal watches, metal belt buck-
“To be Earth's most customer-centric company where people can find and discover anything they want to buy online.”
Important Contact Information
Coffeyville
2654 N. Highway 169 Coffeyville, KS 67337 (620) 464-2265 (620) 464-2123 fax [email protected]
Campbellsville
1050 S. Columbia Ave. Campbellsville, KY 42718 (270) 849-2604 (270) 849-2701 fax [email protected]
Fernley
1600 E. Newlands Drive Fernley, NV 89408 775-575-8045 (775) 575-8058 fax [email protected]
Our Security Officers work hard to ensure the safety of thousands of Amazon associates each day.
CamperForce Benefits
Working with other CamperForce Associates
One benefit we don’t mention enough is the opportunity to work with other CamperForce associates just like yourself. In Campbellsville, Coffeyville, and Fernley you’ll build relationships with new friends and renew old acquaintances as the hundreds of CamperForce associates who agreed to work with us this season arrive in our facilities. You’ll work with each other, then socialize with one another outside of work. What a great benefit!
A M A Z O N
C A M P E R F O R C E
N E W S L E T T E R
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Upcoming Events
Your CamperForce Team will be back out on the road over the course of the next few weeks. If you’re in the area stop by and see us! The Good Sam Rally Louisville, KY June 21st—24th
Iowa State Samboree
Amana, IA
June 21st—24th
Holiday Inn Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge, TN
June 26th—27th
On the road at the Good Sam Tennessee State Samboree in Lebanon, TN. May 2012.
2012 RVW Nat’l Convention
Gillette, WY
July 5th—9th
FMCA 87th Family Reunion
Indianapolis, IN
Aug. 27th—30th
Escapees 52nd Escapade
Sedalia, MO
Sept. 16th—21st
Life isn’t easy on the road….. somehow we manage!
From Tampa, FL. To Quartzsite, AZ. And all points in between, the CamperForce team attends various events each season telling good people about the opportunities at Amazon!
CamperForce on the Road
A M A Z O N
C A M P E R F O R C E
N E W S L E T T E R
VOLUME
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ISSUE
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News From Each Site
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Fernley News Flash
Presenting Fernley’s Top FAQs!
What are the day shift and night shift hours? Day shift is 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and night shift is 6:00 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. You will get one 30-minute lunch and a morning and afternoon break. Does Amazon arrange carpools? While we are unable to directly arrange carpooling, there will be a “Meet and Greet” opportunity at the very end of your first day (Orientation) with us. Here, you will have a chance to meet other campers, and arrange things like carpooling and dog-walking. Finally, while shift assignments will not be provided until your start date, our Facebook page (facebook.com/amazoncamperforce) is also a great avenue to make connections with other campers you’ll be working with this fall. How will the background check and drug screen be conducted? For your background check, we’ll have you fill out a form authorizing a background check to be conducted. For the drug screen, we work with LabCorp, which has labs all across the nation, and the cost will be covered by Amazon. We’ll reach out to you to initiate both of these items closer to your start date. When will I know my start date? As our start dates are based on business need, we are unable to predict them too far in advance. We are planning on having 4 or 5 different start dates in order to work with our campers’ busy schedules and prior obligations. We plan on bringing campers onsite as early as the beginning of October and as late as the beginning of November. We know you’re anxious to know your start date, but rest assured that we will let you know as soon as possible! We anticipate being able to provide this information to you by August, at which point you can contact your campground and let them know your exact date of arrival.
Campbellsville Corner
One of the recurring questions we get here at SDF-1 is “When will we get start dates?” We know how frustrating it can be when you don’t know your start date, so we want to take some of the mystery away from the process. So how are start dates determined? Each year our financial teams, both here and in Seattle determine our labor staffing needs for the holiday season based on business models, projections, and past history. In the months leading up to the 4th quarter, they’ve studied and analyzed what our labor staffing needs will be. Once those determinations have been made, they’ll give us start dates and the number of CamperForce associates needed to start each week. During Peak season, typically we’ll have a new group starting each week through early November. In example, September 9th may be our first start date, and on that date we may need 75 CamperForce associates to start. Finance will tell us what departments and shifts need staffing as well as the number needed. The CamperForce team will look at the information you provided during your telephone interview regarding your availability date and preferences with the available positions and shifts. We take your preferences into account and try to accommodate your requests, but sometimes it just isn’t possible. Positions are filled based upon the needs of Amazon at the time of arrival and quite often those needs change frequently. Usually, we’ll have a much better idea about start dates later in the summer, usually around July. We’ll let you know ASAP!
Coffeyville Chronicle
It’s June but let’s prepare for all four seasons! As a traveler, you understand the importance of being prepared to face all kinds of weather! Southeast Kansas sees most of its winter precipitation during the mid-January through late February time. Thinking about the weather issues that can arise during your fall/winter assignment can keep you one step ahead of averting a disaster with your rig! Here are a few tips: If your coach isn’t well insulated or doesn’t have a basement, it may be worth adding some skirting over some form of insulation. Use public showers if available. If your hot water tank has been emptied, this will decrease the odds of water lines freezing! Frozen sewer hoses can be a nightmare and cause unwanted delays in dumping. During the winter, only open your drain valve at drain time. After each dumping, add a cup of non-toxic antifreeze into the black and grey tanks! Dumping is certainly possible in the late fall and winter months and with some short study on how to stay warm and keep your lines free from freeze, you can rest with ease! Thank you for reading and we look forward to meeting you all very soon! If you have any questions or concerns ahead of your arrival, please feel free to reach out to our team at the Amazon Kansas Fulfillment Center. Coffeyville, FYI: Start dates available! If you have not discussed a starting time-frame with Paul or Mike, please call 620-464-2665 to arrange your tentative start date. See you soon!
Volume I, Issue 5
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Campground Reservation Guidelines
We are excited about you joining us in the fall for the 2012 Holiday Peak Season! A smooth transition from “road mode” to “camp mode” begins with good communications concerning your campground reservations. This information will guide you through that process so that you can be assured there is a place for you when you arrive at your destination. Although Amazon is not and does not want to be in the campground business, it is important to us that you have campground accommodations that meet your needs and desires. It is equally important that we know which campground you have chosen, and any changes that may occur before and during your stay. Therefore, please use the following guidelines when you plan your stay: 1. Make a reservation: It is up to you to make a reservation at the campground of your choice. You will be provided with the campground information for all campgrounds with site openings. We suggest you make the reservation as soon as possible after you have completed the initial hiring process. 2. Call our Amazon CamperForce hotline or email us: Please call your location (contact info is found on page 2 of the Newsletter) or email them and let them know where you have a reservation. We need your name, contact information in case we have a question, and the name of the campground where you have the reservation. 3. Keep in touch with your campground: Make sure your campground has your updated contact information, and inform them of any changes in your hire date, travel plans, etc. 4. What Amazon pays for: We know you may need a few days to rest up and set up camp before you start work; and may need a day in final preparation to hit the road again. Therefore, in addition to paying the campground for your campsite for all days of your employment, Amazon will also pay for two days before your start date and one day after your release date. If you decide to come earlier or stay later, those arrangements are between you and the campground owner. 5. If you change your campgrounds before you arrive: We understand you may want to change from one campground to another before your arrival. For example, you initially booked at campground A and then found out you have friends coming, and they are booked at Campground B. It’s OK to change the reservations as long as (a) the original campground is notified before your arrival and the reservation there is cancelled; and (b) the new campground of your choice can accommodate you. If you make such a change, you must also notify Amazon. (see #2 above). 6. If you change campgrounds after you arrive: We understand that there may also be some movement between campgrounds (premium site at another campground opens up or you want to be next to your friends, for example). We don’t have any issues with someone moving as long as the original campground is notified in a timely manner and the new campground can accommodate the move. Be sure you vacate the site before the checkout time, or you may be held responsible for the extra day! If you make a move for any reason, the same guidelines apply, including notifying Amazon of the move! On behalf of the Amazon CamperForce Staff and the Campground Owners, we appreciate your cooperation with these reservation guidelines. We sincerely hope your stay is comfortable and rewarding!
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Amazon Acronyms
If you are new to the Amazon CamperForce program we want to help you become familiar with the language we speak! There are some words we use that have very specific meanings and can seem like a foreign language. We’ll introduce them to you now, so when you arrive you can speak like a true Amazonian! ERC (Employee Resource Center): This group of Amazon HR professionals in Seattle help answer associate questions and requests. Associates can call them directly at 888-892-7180 between 9am - 9pm EST. UPH (Units Per Hour): Standard of productivity measurement. Refers to how many units (items) received, stowed, packed, etc. per hour.
Referrals
Meet Jose & Jill Ferrer. This great couple has referred several candidates for Campbellsville, Coffeyville & Fernley this season! Jose and Jill have been fulltime RVers for almost 10 years, and author their website, www.your-rv-lifestyle.com Some years have been spent fully engaged in travel: throughout the USA, into Mexico and Canada, and last summer in a rented RV in Europe. Some years they combine both work and play, earning some extra income and sightseeing famous and not-so-famous places. They plan to return to Amazon for their 4th season this fall. Their 1st year they worked as Stowers in Cofffeyville, KS. The last few years they have been Pickers in Campbellsville, KY. "We like the walking (10- 15 miles a day). It's a good job because we get our exercise as well as our wages." Jose and Jill share their CamperForce experience with others and submit referrals from potential candidates. "We try to set realistic expectations. Amazon has been very clear that the jobs can be physically demanding, so we always tell interested RVers that they should expect long hours on their feet. But we also let them know that they will be in good company, with fellow RVers and Amazon associates working together as Santa's helpers". Thanks Jose & Jill! Keep those referrals coming in! You can earn Referral Bonuses, just like Jose & Jill! The process is very simple:
1. To refer a potential candidate, please fill out the referral form you received in your new hire packet and return it
via email or fax to the location you’ll be working at this season 2. You are eligible for a referral bonus when you refer a potential candidate that hasn’t previously worked for Amazon before and is not currently interviewing for an open position.
3. If the candidate you refer is hired and indicates during the interview process that you referred them, you will receive a $50 bonus after the new associate has worked for Amazon.com for 30 days. You must completely fill out the CamperForce Referral Form at the time of referral and be employed by Amazon.com at the time the referral is eligible to be paid in order to receive the bonus. Employees involved in the hiring decisions are not eligible for a referral bonus.
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Amazon CamperForce Facebook Page
By now, many of you have seen the Facebook “Like” icon contained in the CamperForce team’s email signatures. If you have not already done so, we encourage you to log onto:
www.facebook.com/amazoncamperforce
and “Like” our page! We will post weekly updates and hope to use the page as an interactive forum for campers to ask questions, share stories, and meet other campers joining our program this fall.
Thank you for all the “Likes” we received on Facebook last month! We hope our lucky winners enjoyed their T-shirts—we sure enjoyed seeing pictures of you wearing them! Due to the overwhelming response we received, we will be hosting another giveaway this month! To enter, please answer the below question in an email to [email protected]. The first 25 correct answers will receive a limited edition Peak 2011 t-shirt, sizes based on supplies available. Selected winners must be fans of our Facebook page.
Question: What does the Amazon acronym “ASIN” stand for?
Those who have already received a T-shirt from our last giveaway will not be eligible for this giveaway. Good luck, and we look forward to seeing you in our shirts!
*Amazon Standard Identification Number
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AROUND THE CAMPFIRE
This month’s edition of Around the Campfire features CamperForce associates from each of our CamperForce locations: Campbellsville, Coffeyville, and Fernley!
Cathy Dunican
Cathy will return to Campbellsville this year following a great 2011 peak season in Picking. Cathy has been a full timer for 2 years and has worked in, and visited Arizona, West Yellowstone, Montana, Florida, Missouri, Michigan, Utah & Kentucky. Her hobbies include crocheting, reading, hiking, and anything to do with water! When asked what she enjoyed most about Amazon, Cathy said, “ The people I met. I had a wonderful manager and great group of pickers! Everyone was helpful and friendly and it made the job enjoyable. The CamperForce HR staff was awesome!” Her tips for our new CamperForce associates? “Buy good quality, comfy tennis shoes with thick soles and get inserts for them. Walk in them before you start at Amazon in order to break them in. Capris are great to wear, good for the hot areas and cold as they cover a bit more of your leg than shorts.”
Chris Hill & Joyce Vito
Chris Hill & Joyce Vito took the plunge to become CamperForce associates at TUL-1 for our 2011 Peak Season. Chris is originally from the great state of Tennessee, while Joyce hails from beautiful, Maryland. While working in Coffeyville, this dynamic duo developed their Amazon shipping prowess! When asked about what they liked best about Amazon, they said, “The friendly people we worked with.” Chris and Joyce still remain in contact with their Amazon friends and look forward to reconnecting this fall. When not working, some of this couples hobbies include fishing, hunting, watching sports, doing word games, walking & playing with their dogs. Interestingly enough, Joyce has worked for the Baltimore Ravens and the Jacksonville Jaguars! Chris is a mechanical-savvy guy with the ability to build complex equipment. This couples travels have taken them to the Florida, Georgia, the Sugar Beet Harvest, and KOA campgrounds in Texas. We are delighted to have them back in Coffeyville for Peak Season 2012! Joyce has a tip for new CamperForce associates: “Buy good fitting, support shoes—you’ll need them!”
Walt & Kellie Gunn
Walt & Kellie Gunn, from Calaveras County, California, worked at Fernley for the past two Peak seasons. They racked up two years of experience in Shipping and enjoyed meeting new people and seeing new processes. They have been full-timing for the last 10 years, and enjoy woodcarving, beading, 4-wheeling, fishing, gourds, and anything related to the outdoors! They are proud members of the Escapees RV Club; Kelly worked as Seminar Coordinator for 7 years and Walt is the all-around "Go To Guy." A little known fact is that between the two of them, Walt and Kellie have 18 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren! The Gunns have traveled in 32 states and worked in 7, the longest stint having been four summers in Utah, near Bryce Canyon. They used to ride horses in the back country and fish in the San Joaquin Delta. To those new to the program, Walt and Kellie advise: “You will get out of your experience what you put into it. Keep an open mind, don't be afraid to ask questions and get involved in your area. Yes it is work, but it can be fun work, too! Find some comfortable shoes and clothes…this is not a suit and tie affair.”
