A massive startup - Software Development Engineer II Amazon Employee Review

4.0
Apr 7, 2016
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- Flexible Hours - Tremendous amounts of personal ownership in products - Always customer focused (99% of the time) - Personal growth potential is through the roof

Cons

- Can be long hours. This is mitigated if you communicate with management frequently about progress and realistic expectations. Hint: you can always push back on deadlines. - often Too much ambiguity in requirements (just means lots more communication and before coding). Amazon almost prides itself on dealing with ambiguity -- it's sometimes taken to the extreme. - Everythig is constantly in flux, I have come back from a few 2 day vacations to find my project had morphed while I was gone. This is due to the pace of the workplace.

Explore other reviews about Amazon

5.0
Jun 2, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Amazon offers an exceptional work environment with cutting-edge technology and world-class engineering challenges. The compensation package is highly competitive, including strong base salary, RSUs, and comprehensive benefits. Career growth opportunities are abundant — there are clear promotion paths and access to internal mobility across thousands of teams globally. The scale of impact is unmatched; you work on systems that serve hundreds of millions of customers worldwide. Colleagues are incredibly talented, driven, and collaborative, making every project both challenging and rewarding.

Cons

The pace can be fast and demanding at times, which requires strong time management skills. Work-life balance may vary depending on the team and project deadlines.

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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