Walmart is hiring thousands of new associates in Iowa in response to the strong demand in stores during a state public health emergency brought on by the spread of COVID-19.

The American multinational retail corporation announced it is hiring 2,300 new hourly associates through the end of May to work at Iowa stores.

Throughout the country, about 150,000 new associates will be hired.

“These roles will be temporary at first, but many will convert to permanent roles over time,” said Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Walmart, in a written statement. “We’ve reached out to industry groups representing restaurants and hospitality to facilitate temporary roles that can be a bridge for their employees during this difficult time.”

McMillon added, “We know millions of Americans who are usually employed at this time are temporarily out of work, and at the same time we’re currently seeing strong demand in our stores. We’re looking for people who see Walmart as a chance to earn some extra money and perform a vital service to their community.”

Associates will work in stores, clubs, distribution centers and fulfillment centers.

Walmart also announced it will provide more than $365 million in cash bonuses to hourly associates in the U.S. Every hourly associate employed by the company as of March 1 will qualify, and it will pay out on April 2.

The early bonus payout will add up to $180 million nationwide, Walmart reported.

“Walmart associates have gone above and beyond the call of duty in serving our customers during these unprecedented times,” McMillon said. “We want to reward our associates for their hard work and recognize them for the work that is in front of us.”

Walmart reports it has a steady workforce of full-time and part-time workers helping meet the everyday needs of its customers.

But the company is starting a new process to help hiring for key roles, such as cashiers and stockers.

What is usually a two-week application cycle will be reduced to a 24-hour process, according to Walmart.

“This initiative is aimed at helping put Americans to work, while helping Walmart better serve customers during this time of increased demand,” McMillon said.