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Latest Reductions in Robotics Division
Amazon continues its workforce streamlining by cutting at least 100 white-collar jobs in its robotics unit this week, as reported by Reuters citing two sources familiar with the matter. The division focuses on designing robots and automation systems deployed mainly in Amazon's warehouses. Amazon confirmed in a statement that it periodically assesses its organizations to ensure teams are optimally positioned for innovation and customer service, though it did not disclose the exact number of positions eliminated.
We regularly review our organizations to make sure teams are best set up to innovate and deliver for our customers.
Context of Broader Layoffs
This action builds on a pattern of significant layoffs over the past year. In January, Amazon reduced around 16,000 jobs and indicated potential further cuts. The company also paused development of its Blue Jay robotic arm that month; the system featured multiple arms capable of handling several items simultaneously to assist workers in confined spaces, as demonstrated at an October event.
Starting with approximately 14,000 white-collar layoffs in October, Amazon has removed roughly 30,000 corporate roles overall. These reductions, representing nearly 10% of its white-collar workforce, stem from efficiency improvements driven by artificial intelligence and wider organizational changes. While Amazon employs about 1.5 million people, the bulk are hourly workers in fulfillment centers. Additional smaller-scale cuts have occurred in units like devices and services, books, podcasts, and public relations.
