what does the author mean/infer? unlike many low-wage workers, i have the further advantage of being white and a native english speaker.(page 6)

She means that she has a jump on others looking for jobs because she is white and speaks fluent English. According to Gradesaver;

"At Winn-Dixie, she is escorted to a “room decorated with posters illustrating how to look ‘professional’ (it helps to be white and, if female, permed) and warning of the slick promises that union organizers might try to tempt [her] with.”

I found it interesting that Jerry's kept on an employee accused of stealing because they needed him until they could find a replacement.