Laid off from a nearly six-figure job, this 61-year-old has been driving for delivery apps: 'I don't get a day off'
What caused Becky Melvin's initial unemployment?
Becky Melvin's initial unemployment was caused by being laid off from a nearly six-figure public relations job in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2019. Since the start of the pandemic, she has worked seven days a week on delivery apps like Shipt and Instacart, typically for 12-hour stretches3.
How does Becky Melvin earn her income currently?
Becky Melvin currently earns her income through delivering food and other items on delivery apps like Shipt. She works seven days a week picking up and dropping off orders on these apps, typically for 12-hour stretches. Melvin plans to start more regular work as a 911 dispatcher in the near future.
What job is Becky Melvin transitioning to?
Becky Melvin is transitioning to a 911 dispatcher role. The position pays hourly and is expected to pay about $51,000 a year plus overtime, with rate bumps for working overnight and a $5,000 bonus if certain benchmarks are met for a year. Despite the new job, Melvin plans to continue delivering for her most reliable clients on her days off.