Amazon has announced a major expansion in the Denver metro area, bringing 1,200 new full-time jobs to Aurora, Colorado through a $250 million investment in a state-of-the-art robotics fulfillment center. The 855,000 square-foot facility will be Amazon's fourth major fulfillment center in the state and promises to deliver competitive wages and comprehensive benefits to workers while improving delivery speeds across the Front Range region.
What Jobs Are Being Created?
The new Aurora fulfillment center will create 1,200 full-time positions focused primarily on warehouse operations, logistics coordination, and robotics technology support. Workers will be responsible for receiving, sorting, packing, and shipping customer orders using advanced automation systems designed to improve efficiency and reduce physical strain.
Job roles will include warehouse associates, quality control specialists, inventory managers, equipment operators, and maintenance technicians who will work alongside robotic systems. Amazon has emphasized that the robotics technology is designed to complement human workers rather than replace them, handling repetitive heavy-lifting tasks while employees focus on problem-solving and quality assurance.
The facility is expected to open in late 2027, with hiring likely to ramp up in the months leading up to the launch. Amazon typically begins recruiting 3-6 months before a new facility opens, conducting hiring events and accepting applications through its careers website. The company has indicated that priority consideration may be given to local Aurora and Denver metro residents.
What Do These Jobs Pay After Taxes in Colorado?
Amazon has committed to starting wages of at least $19 per hour for all full-time positions at the Aurora facility, which translates to approximately $39,520 annually for a standard full-time schedule. However, many positions may offer higher wages based on shift differentials, experience, and role complexity. Here's what various salary levels look like after Colorado state and federal taxes are deducted:
| Salary | Annual Take-Home | Monthly | Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| $39,520 | $32,696 | $2,724/mo | 17.3% |
| $48,000 | $39,137 | $3,261/mo | 18.5% |
| $58,000 | $46,732 | $3,894/mo | 19.4% |
| $72,000 | $56,512 | $4,709/mo | 21.5% |
Colorado's flat state income tax rate of 4.4% combined with federal taxes results in effective tax rates ranging from 17.3% to 21.5% depending on income level. Workers earning the starting wage of $19 per hour will take home approximately $2,724 monthly after taxes, before accounting for additional benefits like health insurance and 401(k) contributions.
Cost of Living — Can You Afford to Live There?
Aurora is the third-largest city in Colorado and offers a more affordable cost of living compared to neighboring Denver, though housing costs remain significant. As of 2024, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Aurora is approximately $1,450 per month, while a two-bedroom averages around $1,750.
For someone earning the starting wage of $39,520 annually with monthly take-home pay of $2,724, budgeting becomes crucial. A one-bedroom apartment would consume about 53% of monthly income, leaving approximately $1,274 for other expenses including transportation, food, utilities, and savings. This tight budget suggests that many workers may need to consider roommate situations or look for housing in more affordable neighborhoods.
Transportation costs should also be factored in, as the Aurora facility's location may require vehicle ownership or reliable public transit access. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) serves Aurora with bus and light rail options, with monthly passes costing around $114. Groceries for a single person typically run $300-400 monthly, while utilities average $150-200 for a one-bedroom apartment.
When Will Hiring Begin?
With the facility scheduled to open in late 2027, Amazon will likely announce formal hiring timelines in early to mid-2027. The company typically hosts job fairs and information sessions in the local community several months before launch, partnering with workforce development agencies and community organizations.
Interested candidates should monitor Amazon's careers website and sign up for job alerts specific to the Aurora location. Local workforce centers in Aurora and the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment may also share updates about hiring events and application deadlines as they are announced.
Skills and Qualifications Needed
Most warehouse associate positions at Amazon require minimal prior experience, making them accessible to a wide range of job seekers. Basic qualifications typically include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and the ability to lift up to 49 pounds and stand for extended periods.
Amazon does look favorably upon candidates with warehouse, logistics, or customer service experience, though on-the-job training is provided. For supervisory and technical roles, experience with inventory management systems, equipment operation, or robotics maintenance may be required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential across all positions.
The company emphasizes its commitment to promoting from within, offering career advancement opportunities through training programs and tuition assistance. Many warehouse associates advance to leadership positions or transition into corporate roles over time.
Understanding your actual take-home pay is crucial when considering these opportunities. Use our Colorado salary after tax calculator to see exactly how much you'll earn at different wage levels and plan your budget accordingly.
Sources
- Amazon Corporate Press Release - New Fulfillment Center Announcements
- Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade
- City of Aurora Economic Development Department
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
- Colorado Department of Revenue - Income Tax Information
- U.S. Census Bureau - American Community Survey Data
- Internal Revenue Service - Federal Tax Brackets and Rates
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