Day 2, as if it wasn't already obvious - Software Development Engineer (SDE) III Amazon Employee Review

2.0
Feb 28, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

When I was SDE I/II (a while ago), I found that you as an engineer have control over your career. You were rewarded for taking on hard problems, which is a great culture for smart people and self-starters. This is still present.

Cons

Leadership principles used to be seen as both corny and actually as a great set of values at work, so people used them. Now they are just openly mocked by all incl. management. The 2 added in 2021 do not fit with the rest. Culture was diluted during mass hiring in 2020-21, and took a nose-dive after Jassy and layoffs. I stopped recognizing the company in 2024. Management is spineless and not incentivized to show LPs. Also, it's exhausting being the only person who takes ownership. As an org grows more political, fewer and fewer people want to take responsibility for anything.

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5.0
Mar 20, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Medical/ dental/ vision insurance, mental assistance, 401k, lawyer assistance, Career choice, VTO, PTO, vacation time

Cons

Most AMs have avoritism among employees. We get mandatory extra time (now is calling "voluntary" but you have to go when it is schedule) at the end of the year, what makes difficult for some of us when we have kids and they're really rigid about it.

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.

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