Amazon.com, Worth 2 years of your life but not much more - Software Engineer II Amazon Employee Review

3.0
May 16, 2009
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Amazon hires very smart, reasonable people. While people are A-types, people are cooperative and willing to work toward the greater good -- customers. That said, it is _very_ customer focused with a very strong corporate culture. The technologies available to work on are world-class, albeit it can take time to learn it all as much of it is steeped in tribal knowledge.

Cons

Work-life balance is tenuous at best. Even in relaxed areas, the only way to get ahead is to put in a lot of over-time. Some areas talk of 40-hour weeks, this is what it takes to just stay afloat. This can lead to lone warriors pushing changes to team code. A lot of agile team de-evolve into ad-hoc processes. A lot of work is geared toward maintenance engineering than cutting-edge engineering; the challenge is to remain stimulated. Operational support can vary from team to team, in some instances being on-call is minimal; in others it can drown you.

Explore other reviews about Amazon

5.0
Jun 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Hybrid work (3 days a week), good team atmosphere, small sales teams, limited travel

Cons

a lot of shifts in upper management currently

5.0
Jan 10, 2016
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Really smart people, a lot of opportunity for growth, always encouraged to be innovative, think big, and create something new. Competitive salary and benefits with other major tech companies. 100% self motivating work environment. No dress code and 4 legged friends are welcome.

Cons

You have to be self motivated. NO ONE will hold your hand and tell you that you're doing a great job. If you need constant affirmations from management, this company isn't for you.

3159
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