They want the best, not the best of the best - Software Development Engineer-II Amazon Employee Review

3.0
23 Jan 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Amazon has a relatively low bar compared to other companies on this level (Google, Facebook, even Microsoft). They offer decent compensation in recent years considering the rapid growth of their stock price, although that's not lasting anymore. They do cool stuff and they are always looking for new areas to explore.

Cons

1. They offer very little compensation adjustment once you join. Year over year salary growth is less than 2 percent. Good performance is not rewarded whatsoever. 2. Due to the relatively low bar, product quality can be uneven across the company. 3. Their offer will shrink significantly as their stock price stopped growing. They have a low ceiling on base salary too. 4. No lunch, parking has a waitlist of more than 1 year. Not much team building culture. 5. Hard to get other teams to commit to stuff sometimes.

Explore other reviews about Amazon

5.0
27 Apr 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great people, fast moving environment and products that have a lot of reach

Cons

Layoff cycles and regular re-orgs

5.0
10 Jan 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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