How to get a job at costco?
Quick Answer
Getting a job at Costco typically involves submitting an online application through the company's official career website and completing at least two rounds of in-person interviews. The company often looks for candidates with flexible schedules who are willing to work in various departments like the warehouse floor, the food court, or the front-end registers.
Understanding the Costco Hiring Process
Costco is a large membership warehouse that operates differently than many traditional retail stores. The company is known for having a high retention rate, which means many employees stay with the company for a long time. This often makes the hiring process competitive because there are fewer openings compared to other retail chains. Most people who start at Costco begin in entry-level roles even if they have experience in other industries.
Working at a warehouse involves a fast-paced environment where employees are expected to move quickly and handle multiple tasks. The company places a high value on member service, which is what they call their customers. Understanding that the warehouse is a team-oriented environment helps new applicants see what the company expects from its staff. Positions can range from stocking shelves and assisting at cash registers to specialized roles in the pharmacy or tire center.
Most hiring happens at the local warehouse level rather than a central corporate office. While the application is handled online, the individual managers at each location make the final decisions on who to bring in for an interview. This means the needs of a specific warehouse will determine which roles are open and how many people are being hired at any given time.
How the Application and Interview Process Works
The process begins on the Costco careers website where applicants must create a profile and submit their information. The online system allows people to select specific warehouses in their area and choose the types of jobs they are interested in. Many people find that selecting the option for any position increases their chances of being noticed, as it shows a willingness to help wherever the warehouse needs it most.
Once an application is submitted, it remains active in the system for a set period, usually around sixty days. If a warehouse manager sees a need that matches an applicant's profile, they will typically call the person for a first interview. This first meeting is often conducted by a floor supervisor or a department manager. They usually ask questions about previous work experience, how the person handles difficult situations, and what their availability looks like for the coming months.
If the first interview goes well, a second and sometimes third interview is scheduled. These follow-up meetings are usually with higher-level managers or the warehouse general manager. They focus more on the applicant's personality and how well they will fit into the long-term culture of the company. After a successful series of interviews, the company typically moves forward with a background check and a drug screening before a formal job offer is made.
Common Mistakes to Know About
A very common issue is having limited availability on the application. Costco warehouses are busiest on weekends and during evening hours, so applicants who are only available during weekday mornings often find it difficult to get an interview. The company relies heavily on staff being available when the member volume is at its highest.
Another pitfall is applying at the wrong time of year. While Costco hires year-round, they have major hiring pushes during the late spring and the early fall to prepare for busy seasons. Many people apply right after the holiday season when the company is actually slowing down, which can result in their application sitting in the system without being reviewed.
Many applicants also fail to properly describe their ability to perform physical tasks. Most roles at Costco require standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, or moving quickly through a crowded warehouse. Being vague about physical capabilities or previous experience with manual tasks can sometimes make an application seem less competitive for warehouse-specific roles.
Things Worth Knowing
It is worth noting that Costco often hires people as seasonal employees first. These are temporary positions that usually last through the summer or the winter holiday season. Many permanent employees started as seasonal workers and were kept on because they showed a strong work ethic and a positive attitude during their initial temporary contract.
Many people find it helpful to know that the company uses a specific pay scale that increases based on the number of hours worked. Instead of negotiating for a raise, employees move up to the next pay level automatically after completing a certain amount of service hours. This creates a clear path for how an employee's wages will grow over time as they stay with the company.
It is also common for employees to be cross-trained in different departments. Someone hired for the front-end might spend part of their shift helping in the bakery or assisting with stocking. This variety is a standard part of the job and helps the warehouse run smoothly during different times of the day. Showing a friendly and flexible attitude toward these changes is a trait that managers often look for during the hiring process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age to work at Costco?
In most locations, applicants must be at least 18 years old because the warehouse uses heavy machinery and equipment.
Does Costco require a drug test for new hires?
Yes, passing a drug screening is typically a standard part of the hiring process after a candidate has completed their interviews.
How long does it take to hear back after applying?
The time varies by location, but many people hear back within two weeks if the warehouse is actively hiring for their role.
Do I need a resume to apply at Costco?
While the online application covers most details, having a clear resume can help show your work history more professionally during an interview.
What should I wear to a Costco interview?
Business casual attire is usually recommended to show that the applicant is professional and takes the opportunity seriously.