Amazon Prepares for Historic Job Cuts Amid AI Transition

Amazon is set to initiate significant layoffs, targeting up to 30,000 corporate employees starting Tuesday, October 28, 2025. This reduction represents nearly 10% of Amazon's corporate workforce, which numbers approximately 350,000, and is part of a broader strategy to cut costs and address overhiring during the pandemic. This round of layoffs marks the largest in Amazon's history, surpassing the previous cuts of around 27,000 jobs that began in late 2022.

Amazon targets as many as 30,000 corporate job cuts, sources sayAmazon plans to cut up to 30,000 corporate jobsGeekWireMyNorthwestThe GuardianReutersNew York TimesCNBC

The decision to reduce the workforce comes as Amazon's CEO Andy Jassy seeks to streamline operations and reduce bureaucracy within the company. Jassy has emphasized the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in driving efficiency, suggesting that the increased adoption of AI tools will lead to further job reductions, particularly in roles involving repetitive tasks. In June, he indicated that the company would require fewer employees in certain positions as it integrates AI into its operations.

CNBC

The layoffs are expected to affect various divisions, including human resources, devices and services, and operations. Managers of the impacted teams were instructed to undergo training on how to communicate the layoffs to their staff, with notifications set to be sent via email. Reports suggest that the human resources division could see cuts of approximately 15%, equating to around 1,500 positions.

Reuters

Amazon's cloud computing unit, Amazon Web Services (AWS), reported a sales increase of 17.5% in the second quarter, generating $30.9 billion, although this growth lagged behind competitors like Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud. Despite this, Amazon is investing heavily in AI infrastructure, with capital expenditures expected to exceed $120 billion this year, a nearly 50% increase from the previous year. This investment is part of a long-term strategy to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.

Reuters

Critics of Amazon's approach argue that the layoffs reflect a troubling trend in the tech industry, where companies are increasingly turning to automation and AI at the expense of jobs. The broader implications of these cuts raise concerns about job security and the future of work in an era of rapid technological advancement. Industry observers note that Amazon's decision may set a precedent for other companies facing similar pressures to reduce costs.

CNBC

While Amazon has not publicly commented on the specifics of the layoffs, Jassy's previous statements indicate a commitment to adapting the workforce in response to technological changes. He noted, "It's hard to know exactly where this nets out over time, but in the next few years, we expect that this will reduce our total corporate workforce."

CNBC

Following the initial layoffs, further job cuts are anticipated in January 2026, after the holiday shopping season. As Amazon continues to navigate its transition toward AI and automation, the company will likely face ongoing scrutiny regarding its workforce strategies and the impact on employees.

GeekWire

• “We will need fewer people doing some of the jobs that are being done today, and more people doing other types of jobs,” — Andy Jassy, CEO of Amazon

GeekWire

• “This latest move signals that Amazon is likely realizing enough AI-driven productivity gains within corporate teams to support a substantial reduction in force,” — Sky Canaves, eMarketer analyst

Reuters

• “It's hard to know exactly where this nets out over time, but in the next few years, we expect that this will reduce our total corporate workforce,” — Andy Jassy, CEO of Amazon

CNBC