AWS Work-Based Learning Program 2026: Paid 12-Month Training and Entry-Level Data Centre Logistics Careers in the United States

The AWS Work-Based Learning Program (WBLP) 2026 is a paid, 12-month training and employment opportunity offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) for individuals seeking to build practical skills and begin careers in data centre operations, logistics, infrastructure installation, and technology support. The programme combines structured learning, instructor-led training, and hands-on workplace experience to prepare participants for technical roles within AWS data centres.

The AWS Work-Based Learning Program is particularly relevant to people who want to enter the technology industry but may not have extensive professional experience in data centre operations. Through guided instruction, practical training, assessments, and mentorship, participants can develop the technical and workplace skills required to support the infrastructure behind cloud computing.

For 2026, AWS is advertising entry-level Work Based Learning Program Logistics Specialist positions, including an opportunity based in New Albany, Ohio, United States, with additional locations in the surrounding Ohio region. The advertised position involves a 12-month training curriculum focused on inventory management, shipment coordination, supplier communication, equipment movement, and the supply chain processes that keep data centres operating efficiently.

The programme is paid, and candidates who successfully complete the required curriculum, safety certifications, technical competencies, and performance milestones can progress into their designated roles. However, applicants should note that the advertised United States positions require existing work authorization that does not depend on employer sponsorship. The Ohio locations also carry a specific U.S. citizenship restriction associated with AWS GovCloud access.

About Amazon Web Services and the Work-Based Learning Program

Amazon Web Services, commonly known as AWS, is the cloud computing division of Amazon. It provides computing, storage, networking, database, and other technology services used by organisations ranging from start-ups to large international companies.

These digital services depend on physical infrastructure. AWS data centres contain servers, networking equipment, storage systems, power infrastructure, cooling systems, and other essential components that must be installed, maintained, monitored, repaired, and replaced.

Operating this infrastructure requires a wide range of employees, including engineers, logistics specialists, technicians, security professionals, supply chain specialists, and operations managers. Their work ensures that equipment is available when needed and that the infrastructure supporting customers’ cloud services continues to function reliably.

The AWS Work-Based Learning Program helps prepare people for some of these roles through a structured combination of learning and employment.

Rather than relying exclusively on classroom-based instruction, the programme combines several learning methods:

• Self-directed online instruction: Participants work through web-based learning materials designed to introduce relevant concepts and procedures.
• Instructor-led training: Learners receive guided instruction and explanations from training personnel.
• On-the-job training: Participants gain practical experience in a workplace environment and learn how tasks are carried out.
• Assessments and performance milestones: Progress is evaluated against programme requirements and the competencies needed for the intended position.
• Safety training and certifications: Participants complete the required safety instruction and certifications associated with their responsibilities.

The programme follows defined onboarding procedures and learning pathways so participants can understand their progress and identify what they need to accomplish next.

AWS describes the programme as an opportunity to build skills from the ground up. This makes it relevant to people who are at the beginning of their technical careers, although applicants must still satisfy the eligibility requirements for their chosen position.

Overview of the AWS Work-Based Learning Program 2026

The following table summarises the key information available for the advertised Logistics Specialist position.

Programme detail	Information
Programme name	AWS Work-Based Learning Program (WBLP)
Organisation	Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Opportunity type	Paid work-based training and entry-level employment
Advertised position	Work Based Learning Program Logistics Specialist
Primary advertised location	New Albany, Ohio, United States
Other listed Ohio locations	Hilliard, Jeffersonville and Plain City
Programme duration	12 months
Training format	Online learning, instructor-led sessions and practical workplace training
Education requirement	High school diploma or equivalent
Minimum age	18 years
Previous technical experience	The programme is designed for entry-level candidates; specific experience is not listed as a basic requirement
Work schedule	Rotating shifts, potentially including nights, weekends and public holidays
Salary	Advertised starting pay of US$21.68–US$37.93 per hour for the listed Ohio locations, depending on factors including location and qualifications
Work authorization	Applicants must already have work authorization without employer sponsorship
Ohio GovCloud restriction	The posting states that access to the AWS GovCloud region is restricted to U.S. citizens
Application deadline	No specific closing date stated in the supplied listing
Hiring period	The listing indicates multiple trainee openings between June and December 2026
Listing update	October 20, 2026

Applicants should check the live vacancy for the latest information on location availability, pay, eligibility, and application status.

Career Pathways Available Through the AWS Work-Based Learning Program

The AWS Work-Based Learning Program supports several career pathways within data centre operations. The exact roles available depend on the vacancies advertised in a particular location.

1. Data Centre Operations Technician

Data Centre Operations Technicians help maintain the equipment and systems used in AWS data centres.

Their responsibilities may include installing equipment racks, replacing faulty hardware components, troubleshooting network-related issues, and responding to operational incidents that could affect service availability.

This pathway is suited to people interested in computer hardware, technical troubleshooting, infrastructure maintenance, and the practical operation of technology systems.

2. Data Centre Installation Technician

Data Centre Installation Technicians help install and deploy the equipment required to build and expand data centre infrastructure.

Their work may involve moving large enterprise equipment, installing fibre-optic and copper cabling, supporting rack installations, and ensuring that safety and security standards are followed during installation activities.

The role is particularly relevant to people interested in physical infrastructure, equipment deployment, cabling, and hands-on technical work.

3. Data Centre Decommissioning Technician

Data Centre Decommissioning Technicians help remove equipment that is no longer required in a data centre.

Their responsibilities include handling legacy equipment, supporting recycling and disposal processes, and ensuring that customer data is appropriately sanitised and managed.

This pathway involves careful attention to security, equipment handling, environmental procedures, and operational standards.

4. Data Centre Logistics Specialist

The Logistics Specialist pathway focuses on the movement, tracking, storage, and availability of equipment and replacement parts.

Logistics Specialists monitor inventory, coordinate incoming shipments, track stock requirements, arrange returns, and work with suppliers to obtain replacement components.

This role connects technical operations with supply chain management. It may suit candidates who are organised, communicate effectively, can maintain accurate records, and enjoy coordinating processes that involve multiple teams.

The specific vacancy described in this article is the Work Based Learning Program Logistics Specialist position in Ohio.

Work-Based Learning Program Logistics Specialist: Position Details

AWS Infrastructure Services is responsible for the design, planning, delivery, and operation of the infrastructure that supports AWS services worldwide.

The Logistics Specialist helps ensure that the equipment and parts required for data centre construction, maintenance, and repair are available when needed. Without reliable inventory management and shipment coordination, technicians may be unable to complete repairs or deployment activities efficiently.

The advertised position is an entry-level role that combines practical work with a structured 12-month training programme. Successful applicants must report to their assigned worksite rather than treating the opportunity as a fully remote position.

The job listing identifies New Albany, Ohio, as a location and also lists Hilliard, Jeffersonville, and Plain City, Ohio. The precise worksite and any location-specific requirements should be confirmed in the live vacancy.

Key responsibilities of a Logistics Specialist

Participants will be expected to perform several operational and administrative duties.

1. Inventory management

Logistics Specialists review data centre inventory and monitor incoming shipments and anticipated demand. Their work helps ensure that sufficient stock is available to support equipment installation, construction, and repair activities.

They may track where parts are stored, how they move through the facility, how long they remain in inventory, and whether they need to be returned or replaced.

2. Supplier and vendor communication

The role involves regular communication with suppliers and vendors. Logistics Specialists may coordinate deliveries, respond to enquiries, resolve supply issues, and explain business requirements to external partners.

Clear communication is important because delays or misunderstandings can affect the availability of equipment needed by technical teams.

3. Shipment and delivery coordination

Participants assist with preparing merchandise and materials for shipment, arranging deliveries, and coordinating pickups from relevant locations.

They may also help schedule deliveries and collections to ensure that materials reach the correct destination at the appropriate time.

4. Billing validation and documentation

The position involves checking that inventory-related supply chain billing is accurate, validated, and ready for processing.

Employees must also maintain precise records of commodities entering and leaving the company. Accurate documentation helps support inventory control, financial processing, accountability, and operational efficiency.

5. Returns and replacement equipment

Logistics Specialists work with procurement teams, hardware engineers, and suppliers to process returns and receive replacement parts.

This can involve managing return merchandise authorisations (RMAs), tracking the progress of returns, and ensuring that replacement equipment is received and processed correctly.

6. Collaboration with technical teams

The role requires collaboration with Data Centre Operations Technicians, Data Centre Engineers, Logistics Managers, Procurement teams, and Hardware Engineering personnel.

Logistics Specialists help these teams obtain the equipment they need to complete their work accurately and efficiently.

7. Training and assessment completion

Participants must successfully complete the 12-month Work-Based Learning Program curriculum. This includes the required safety certifications, technical competencies, and performance milestones.

Completing the programme requirements is an important part of progression into the designated role.

What Does a Typical Working Day Look Like?

A typical day for a Logistics Specialist may involve checking stock levels, reviewing expected deliveries, confirming that parts are available for upcoming work, and resolving discrepancies in inventory records.

The employee may coordinate with the Logistics Manager to plan how parts should move through the data centre supply chain. This includes monitoring inventory locations, tracking equipment movement, processing returns, and ensuring that components are available for build and repair activities.

The role also involves communication with vendors and other internal teams. A supplier may need clarification about an order, a replacement part may need to be tracked, or a technical team may require a component urgently. The Logistics Specialist helps coordinate the process and keep relevant people informed.

Depending on the worksite and assignment, employees may work in a warehouse or data centre environment. They must follow safety procedures, maintain quality standards, and be willing to use powered equipment, such as forklifts or cherry pickers, where required and appropriately trained.

The work is not exclusively administrative. It combines record-keeping and communication with physical activity, equipment handling, and operational responsibilities.

Eligibility Criteria for the AWS Work-Based Learning Program 2026

Applicants should review the eligibility criteria carefully before applying. The requirements below relate to the advertised U.S. Logistics Specialist position.

1. Educational qualification

Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.

The listing does not make a university degree a basic requirement. This may make the opportunity accessible to people who have completed secondary education and want to develop practical workplace skills.

Candidates with additional education in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or vocational subjects may have relevant preparation, but STEM or vocational education is listed as a preferred qualification rather than a mandatory basic requirement.

2. Minimum age

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

Candidates below the age of 18 do not meet the stated minimum age requirement for this position.

3. Willingness to work rotating shifts

AWS data centres operate around the clock. Applicants must be willing to participate in shift rotations that support 24-hour, seven-day operations.

Depending on the assigned schedule, shifts may include daytime or nighttime work, weekends, and public holidays. Some employees may also be required to provide after-hours support or participate in primary responder rotations.

Candidates should consider whether they can meet these scheduling requirements before applying.

4. Existing U.S. work authorization

AWS states that it cannot provide employment sponsorship now or in the future for these positions.

Applicants must therefore have work authorization that allows them to take the job without employer intervention to obtain sponsorship.

This is an important requirement for international applicants. The fact that the programme is described as entry-level or provides training does not mean that it offers a visa or relocation-based work authorization.

5. U.S. citizenship restriction for Ohio GovCloud locations

The listing includes a specific notice explaining that the Ohio and Oregon sites are within the AWS GovCloud region. It states that logical access to this region is restricted to Amazon employees who are U.S. citizens.

Because the advertised Ohio locations are identified in that notice, prospective applicants should carefully review the citizenship and access requirements in the live posting before applying.

This restriction is separate from the general requirement to have work authorization without employer sponsorship.

6. Ability to meet the role’s physical and workplace requirements

The position includes physical tasks and work environments that applicants should understand before applying.

The listing states that, with reasonable accommodations where applicable, the role may require employees to:

• Regularly lift or move items weighing up to 40 pounds and participate in team lifts for heavier items.
• Bend, stretch, reach, lift, stand, and walk for eight hours or longer in a workday.
• Safely ascend and descend ladders, stairs, and gangways.
• Work in cramped, elevated, or noisy environments.
• Work in environments that may not be climate-controlled.
• Support operations in a facility that runs 24 hours a day.

These requirements reflect the practical nature of data centre and warehouse work. Applicants who need workplace accommodations can consult Amazon’s official accommodations guidance during the application and hiring process.

7. Driving licence and reliable personal vehicle

The Logistics Specialist listing states that regional travel is required.

Candidates must have a valid driver’s licence and a reliable personal vehicle to travel within the regional work area. The employer states that company transportation will not be provided for this requirement.

Applicants should consider the cost and practicality of regional travel when deciding whether the position is suitable for them.

8. Preferred skills and experience

Although extensive technical experience is not listed as a basic requirement, AWS identifies several preferred qualifications that may strengthen an application:

• Knowledge of computer hardware components and operating systems.
• Experience using Microsoft Office products and applications.
• Experience managing tasks and priorities through a ticketing system.
• Experience coordinating work with a manager.
• STEM coursework or vocational education.

These are preferred rather than mandatory qualifications in the advertised listing. Candidates should assess their skills honestly and avoid assuming that they need every preferred qualification before applying.

Physical Requirements and Workplace Conditions

The AWS Work-Based Learning Program provides training, but the Logistics Specialist role still involves the physical and operational demands of a working data centre or warehouse.

The work may require prolonged standing and walking, handling equipment, working at different heights, and operating in environments where noise and temperature vary.

Employees may also need to use powered equipment such as forklifts or cherry pickers after receiving the appropriate instruction and authorisation.

Safety is an important part of the programme. Participants must complete required safety certifications and follow the relevant policies, procedures, and guidelines throughout their training and employment.

Applicants should read the full vacancy description to understand the responsibilities and discuss any questions about reasonable accommodations or essential job functions through the official recruitment process.

Duration, Training Structure, and Career Development

The AWS Work-Based Learning Program lasts 12 months.

During this period, participants follow a structured curriculum intended to develop the skills needed for their chosen role. The programme combines self-directed online learning, instructor-led sessions, and practical on-the-job training.

The learning pathway is supported by onboarding procedures, assessments, safety training, technical competency requirements, and performance milestones.

The purpose of this structure is to help participants progress through the required learning objectives rather than relying on informal workplace exposure alone.

Successful completion of the required programme curriculum and assessments can lead to promotion into the designated role at an AWS data centre. The specific position, location, and terms of employment remain subject to the applicable vacancy and employer requirements.

The programme’s broader career pathways may also provide a foundation for continued development in data centre operations, logistics, infrastructure installation, and decommissioning. However, future promotions beyond the designated role are not guaranteed.

Salary and Benefits

The advertised Ohio Logistics Specialist position lists a starting pay range of US$21.68 to US$37.93 per hour for the locations shown. The final starting rate depends on factors that include location and qualifications.

This is an advertised hourly pay range, not a promise that every participant will receive the highest rate. Candidates should confirm the applicable rate for their assigned worksite and review the employment terms in the official listing.

The posting also identifies benefits available from the first day of employment, including:

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Mental health support.
• A medical advice line.
• 401(k) matching.

Eligibility and the specific terms of benefits may depend on the applicable employment arrangements. Applicants should consult the official Amazon benefits information and the vacancy details for the most accurate explanation.

The programme is described as paid training. It should not be confused with an unpaid course or a scholarship that pays participants to study independently.

Is the AWS Work-Based Learning Program Remote?

No. The advertised Logistics Specialist position is an on-site opportunity.

Successful candidates must report to an assigned AWS site and carry out responsibilities in a warehouse or data centre environment, depending on the location. The work includes inventory handling, shipment coordination, physical activity, and collaboration with operational teams.

Although part of the training curriculum involves self-directed web-based instruction, this does not make the job remote. Applicants should be prepared to work at the designated site and meet the role’s travel and shift requirements.

Application Period and Deadline

The supplied job listing was updated on October 20, 2026. It states that AWS has multiple Work-Based Learning Program trainee openings between June and December 2026.

However, the listing does not provide a specific application closing date. The June–December period describes the anticipated trainee openings, not a confirmed deadline for every vacancy.

As the current date is October 27, 2026, interested candidates should check the official listing promptly to determine whether applications remain open. Vacancy availability may change, and the employer may close or update individual listings.

Applicants should rely on the live Amazon Jobs page for the current status rather than assuming that the programme remains open until the end of December.

How to Apply for the AWS Work-Based Learning Program 2026

Applications should be submitted through the official Amazon Jobs recruitment platform. The following steps can help candidates prepare.

Step 1: Read the official job description

Open the official Work Based Learning Program Logistics Specialist vacancy and review its responsibilities, basic qualifications, preferred qualifications, work locations, salary range, and employment conditions.

Make sure you understand the work authorization and citizenship restrictions before beginning the application.

Step 2: Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements

Check that you:

• Are at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Can work rotating shifts to support 24/7 data centre operations.
• Already have the required work authorization without employer sponsorship.
• Meet the location-specific citizenship and access requirements.
• Can meet the role’s travel, driving, physical, and workplace requirements, with reasonable accommodations where applicable.

If you are uncertain about a requirement, seek clarification through the official recruitment process.

Step 3: Prepare your application information

Prepare an up-to-date résumé or CV that accurately presents your education, work experience, relevant skills, and training.

Where applicable, highlight experience with inventory, record-keeping, logistics, administrative coordination, supplier communication, Microsoft Office, computer hardware, or other relevant responsibilities.

Candidates without direct data centre experience can focus on transferable skills, provided they represent their background honestly.

Step 4: Submit the online application

Use the official vacancy page to follow Amazon’s application instructions. Complete the required fields, provide accurate information, and submit any requested documents through the recruitment system.

The application page will indicate whether the position is accepting applications and whether additional information is required.

Step 5: Monitor your application

After applying, check your email and Amazon Jobs account for recruitment updates or requests for additional information. Follow any instructions and deadlines communicated by the recruitment team.

Do not assume that submitting an application guarantees an interview or placement in the programme.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the AWS Work-Based Learning Program paid?

Yes. AWS describes the WBLP as a paid, 12-month training programme. The advertised Ohio Logistics Specialist position lists a starting hourly pay range of US$21.68–US$37.93, depending on location and qualifications.

2. Do applicants need a university degree?

No university degree is listed as a basic requirement for the advertised Logistics Specialist role. Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent. STEM coursework or vocational education is preferred but not mandatory.

3. Is previous data centre experience required?

The role is presented as an entry-level opportunity, and previous data centre experience is not listed as a basic qualification. Relevant technical knowledge and other preferred skills may nevertheless strengthen an application.

4. Can applicants from Ghana or other countries apply?

The advertised position is based in the United States, and AWS states that it cannot provide employment sponsorship. Applicants must already have work authorization without employer intervention. The Ohio listing also states that access to the relevant GovCloud region is restricted to U.S. citizens.

Consequently, this should not be treated as an international scholarship or a programme that provides an employment visa. Applicants outside the United States should verify that they satisfy every applicable requirement before applying.

5. Can participants complete the programme remotely?

No. The advertised Logistics Specialist position requires employees to report to an assigned site. Online instruction is only one part of the training structure.

6. How long does the programme last?

The Work-Based Learning Program lasts 12 months. Participants must complete the required curriculum, safety certifications, technical competencies, and performance milestones.

7. What happens after successful completion?

Participants who complete the programme requirements and assessments can progress into their designated roles at an AWS data centre, subject to the applicable employment requirements.

8. What is the application deadline?

The supplied listing does not specify an exact closing date. It indicates that multiple trainee openings are available between June and December 2026. Candidates should check the live vacancy for current availability.

The AWS Work-Based Learning Program 2026 offers a paid, 12-month route into data centre operations and related technical careers through structured instruction, practical workplace training, and assessments. The advertised Logistics Specialist position provides experience in inventory management, supplier communication, shipment coordination, equipment returns, and the supply chain processes that support AWS infrastructure.

The opportunity requires a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum age of 18, willingness to work rotating shifts, and the ability to meet the position’s workplace and travel requirements. Applicants must also have existing U.S. work authorization without employer sponsorship and carefully review the citizenship restriction associated with the Ohio GovCloud locations.

With no exact application deadline stated in the supplied listing, interested candidates should consult the official Amazon Jobs page promptly to confirm whether the vacancy is still open and review all requirements before applying.

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