Lots of smart engineers and groups, but be careful of poorly run oncall rotations - Software Development Engineer Amazon Employee Review

4.0
Dec 30, 2008
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

There are a lot of smart people and lots of opportunities to learn from them - frequent tech talks, generally open communications policies. All of the managers I've had have been people that I've felt like I've worked _with_ rather than _for_ - they've been generally interested in figuring out what's needed for our customers and getting the group's feedback on how to get it done. I haven't experienced any of the micromanagement styles that I've seen mentioned in other reviews here.

Cons

Most software groups are responsible for software that is used by a production website or service -- that means that depending on how old the software is or how well it was written or how well its operations were thought out, it can fail gracefully or not. Some groups have frontline oncall support teams, but many do not, so if the production software fails a lot, you may be on a pager rotation that can cost you some sleep :(.

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5.0
May 22, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Decent pay. Great Benefits, Room to promote

Cons

Long hours, day to day can be challenging

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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