Walmart Inc. hosted the grand opening of its newest high-tech consolidation center in Minooka, Illinois. The new 492,000 square-foot facility, located at 201 S. McLinden Road will bring nearly 700 additional jobs to the area. Once implemented, the facility's automated technology can enable three times more volume to flow throughout the center and help Walmart deliver the right product to the right store, so customers can find the products they need.

This building will be the third of its kind in Walmart's supply chain. The first, located in Colton, Calif., opened in 2019. Consolidation centers have a specialized role in moving products quickly on their journey to store shelves, and ultimately, the customer.

Each has the ability to receive general merchandise items from suppliers in smaller freight loads, known in the industry as less than a truckload (LTL) and consolidate them into larger freight loads, known as full truckload (TL). Then the product is shipped to one of Walmart's 42 regional distribution centers where it is sorted for distribution to stores. The technology in the facility provides benefits for both customers and suppliers.

For suppliers, it streamlines the process of purchase order fulfillment, reduces lead times and unlocks faster delivery to customers. Once staffed, Walmart will have 700 associates at the Minooka consolidation center. Available roles range from Freight Handler to Quality Assurance Manager.

Full-time positions qualify for Walmart's total rewards and benefits plans, including medical, vision and dental insurance, 401(k) matching, paid time off, an associate stock purchase plan and access to company-paid college degrees and skills certificates through Walmart's Live Better U. candidates can search for open positions and complete applications online at careers.walmart.com.