Does Costco Hire Part-Time? Hours + Application + Benefits Guide

If you’re looking for a part-time job, but not quite sure where to start, Costo could be an answer. Costco is a popular retail chain that offers a variety of employment opportunities, including part-time positions. If you are interested in working at Costco on a part-time basis, this article will provide you with helpful information from the company’s hiring practices to the benefits of working there.

Quick Summary

Costco does hire part-time employees on a frequent basis. The company offers a variety of flexible working hours and tries to make sure that part-time employees can find a schedule that is compatible with their lifestyle. In addition, the company offers competitive wages and benefits for part-time employees as well. The average hourly salary for part-time positions at Costco is between $12 to $17 per hour. If you’re 18 or above, you can apply for a part-time job when available.

Does Costco Hire Part-Time?

Yes, Costco hires part-time employees. Part-time positions are available in most Costco warehouses across the country. Part-time employees work fewer than 24 hours weekly and typically receive benefits and other perks. 

The company offers a range of part-time job opportunities including cashier, sales, and customer service positions.

If someone is in need of weekday, swing shift, or overnight hours, Costco has something to fit your individual needs. Costco provides above-industry hourly rates and benefits like PTO, health insurance, a 401k with employer match, and 4 free memberships.

How Much Does Costco Pay for the Part-Time Job?

Part-time employees at Costco typically receive competitive pay and benefits. Hourly pay rates vary by position and experience level. Part-time Costco employees can enjoy an average annual income of around $29,036.

Hiring services like Indeed and Ziprecruiter report that Costco pays front-end workers like cashiers and bakery employees between $12-$17 per hour. For more specialized roles such as shipment unloaders and managers, Costco upped the stakes with a generous hourly salary of up to $75 per hour.

Part-Time Hours & Breaks at Costco

Part-time employees at Costco typically work between 12 and 24 hours per week. It is important to remember that your weekly hours cannot exceed 24 since this would make you a full-time employee.

Rest breaks are typically short breaks of 10-20 minutes to allow employees to rest. Meal breaks are longer breaks that are usually 30 minutes or more in length, employees who work shifts of at least 5 hours are entitled to at least one unpaid meal break.

Part-Time Shifts at Costco

Part-time employees at Costco typically work either day, swing, or overnight shifts.

Day Shift: Day shifts typically start in the morning and end in the afternoon. The average hours for day shift employees is 8-10 hours per day running from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Swing Shift: Swing shifts usually start in the afternoon and end in the evening. The average hours for swing shift employees is 4-6 hours per day running from 4:00 pm to 12:00 am.

Overnight Shift: Overnight shifts begin in the evening and end in the morning. The average hours for overnight shift employees is 8-10 hours per day running from 12:00 am to 8:00 am.

Flexible Hours at Costco

Costco can be flexible with hours and shift days depending on the individual needs of part-time employees. With prior approval, part-time employees are allowed to change their schedules as needed. 

Flexible hours can allow employees to work a schedule that fits their personal needs and commitments, rather than a set schedule.

For Example: An employee may be able to work a varying schedule that includes evenings, weekends, and holidays, or they may be able to work a set schedule with some flexibility in the start and end times of their shifts.

Part-Time Benefits at Costco

Part-time employment at Costco comes with a range of benefits. Here are some benefits that part-time employees at Costco may be avail during their job:

1) Paid time off (PTO)

Some part-time employees at Costco may be eligible for paid time off (PTO), such as vacation or sick leave. It is a type of leave that employees can use for vacation, sick days, or personal days. It means that in case you’re sick, you can take a given number of leaves yet your salary would not be cut. You’ll be paid in full.

2) Health insurance

Depending on the specific location and length of employment, some part-time employees at Costco may be eligible for health insurance coverage. In most cases, if an employee has worked a total of 450 hours (whether an employee is a part-time job holder), he or she may be eligible for benefits, such as insurance and other perks.

3) 401k with employer match

Many part-time employees at Costco are eligible to participate in the company’s 401(k) retirement plan, which allows them to contribute a portion of their earnings to a tax-deferred account.

4) Four free memberships for family and friends

Part-time employees at Costco may be eligible for four free memberships to share with family and friends. This is a great way for employees to save money on their groceries and other purchases.

5) Discounted rates on Costco products and services

Part-time employees at Costco receive discounted rates on products and services the company offers, such as prescription drugs, health care services, and optical services.

6) Flexible hours and shift days

Part-time employees at Costco are allowed to switch their shift days and hours with prior approval. This allows for a more flexible work schedule that fits their individual needs and commitments.

Apply for a Part-Time Job at Costco (Steps)

If you’re interested in applying for a part-time job at Costco, there are some steps you need to follow. Here are some steps you can follow to apply for a part-time job at Costco successfully:

  1. Visit the Costco Careers page to search for available positions. You can use the search filters to narrow down your options.
  2. Select the job that you are interested in and read through the job description to make sure that it is a good fit.
  3. Complete and submit the online application form. Make sure to double-check your information for accuracy.
  4. If you are selected for an interview, you will be contacted by a Costco representative with further instructions.
  5. After the initial interview, you will be invited to an in-person interview. This is your chance to show the hiring manager why you would be a great addition to the team.
  6. Once you have successfully completed the interview and hiring process, you will be offered a position at Costco as a part-time employee.

Is it Worth Doing Part-Time Work at Costco?

Here are a few factors to consider when deciding on part-time work at Costco to see if it is worth doing:

  • Costco is known for offering competitive wages and benefits to its employees.
  • Costco provides opportunities for its employees to advance their careers and take on leadership roles within the company.
  • Part-time work at Costco may offer flexible scheduling options that allow you to balance your work and personal commitments.
  • Costco is known for its strong company culture and commitment to its employees.

Part-time work at Costco is worth it for you will depend on your personal circumstances and career goals. Please consider the factors listed above and weigh them against your own needs and goals to determine if doing this is the right choice for you.

Fun-Fact! Costco is one of the largest retailers in the world and is known for its wide variety of products and services.

Are Seasonal Employees at Costco Eligible for a Free Membership Card?

Yes, seasonal employees at Costco are eligible for a free membership card. This is just one of the many benefits that part-time and seasonal employees at Costco enjoy.

The free membership card is valid for one year and can be used to make purchases from any Costco warehouse, online store, or gas station.

The Bottom Line

Costco does hire part-time employees. Full and part-time employees at Costco are eligible for competitive wages, health insurance coverage, 401(k) with employer match, four free memberships to share with family and friends, discounted rates on products and services, and flexible hours and shift days. Part-time work at Costco may be worth it depending on your personal career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do part-time Costco employees receive holiday pay?

Yes, part-time employees at Costco are eligible for holiday pay. Holiday pay is based on the employee’s regular hourly rate and hours worked in the previous pay period.

Does Costco offer any discounts or benefits to its part-time employees?

Yes, part-time employees at Costco receive discounted rates on products and services the company offers, such as prescription drugs, health care services, and optical services.

Are there any age restrictions for part-time employment at Costco?

No, there are no age restrictions for part-time employment at Costco. However, applicants must be at least 18 years old or above in order to apply.