Port St. Lucie Amazon layoffs update: County officials help workers transition after warehouse closure
As Amazon’s Port St. Lucie facility begins a two-year renovation, local leaders report that many of the displaced workers have found new jobs through community efforts.
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. —
Amazon workers at the Port St. Lucie fulfillment center will be paid for the last time Sept. 17 as the facility begins a two-year renovation, with local leaders working to help the displaced employees transition to new opportunities.
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“Obviously, the greatest impact is on the workers and their families,” said Wicker Perlis, spokesperson for the St. Lucie County Economic Development Council.
Since the closure was announced in May, county officials tell WPBF 25 News that many employees have successfully transferred to other Amazon locations or found work with new employers.
“We can say at this point that a majority of the employees who were there in May, easily a majority, have found new work by the time the closure took place,” Perlis said.
The EDC partnered with CareerSource Research Coast and local businesses to assist workers in finding new jobs. CareerSource organized hiring events and job assistance programs specifically for the displaced Amazon employees, bringing in companies such as Walmart, CVS and Pursuit Aero to connect with workers.
Walmart interviewed dozens of employees and hired 25. Import Mex hired 12 workers and is considering others for future openings, while CVS Distribution hired two. Additionally, four reemployment sessions were held, reaching over 100 affected workers with information on job placement services, training programs and other resources.
County officials said the timing of new employers and expanding businesses helped create options for many of the people looking for their next paycheck.
“There are jobs out there. There really are. And we can try and help you, connect you with a good job,” Perlis said.
Amazon has announced that the renovated facility is expected to reopen in 2028 with about 1,000 employees. Until then, officials said the focus remains on ensuring those impacted by the temporary closure have a plan for what is next.
According to CareerSource Research Coast, the fulfillment center has been closed since Sept. 6, and affected workers are still being paid on time until Sept. 17, when their employment will be officially terminated.
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