AKRON, Ohio - Amazon has announced it has started hiring more than 1,500 people for new, full-time positions as it prepares to open its 640,000 square-foot fulfillment center in Akron.

Amazon says the jobs, which pay a minimum of $15 an hour minimum with benefits, include receiving inventory, picking, and shipping customer orders, and supporting network logistics.

Immediate benefits include health, vision, and dental insurance, 401(k) with 50 percent company match, up to 20 weeks paid parental leave, and pre-pay of 95% of tuition for courses in high-demand fields.

Job candidates must be 18 years or older and have a high school diploma or equivalent to be considered. 

Jobs are available on a rolling basis and fill up quickly, according to Amazon which encourages people to sign up for text alerts for regular updates. Interested candidates can sign up for text alerts by texting AKCNOW to 77088 to receive automated messages about job openings and to learn more and apply online, visit amazon.com/clevelandjobs