Amazing place to learn for several years, hard to stay long-term - Senior Software Development Manager Amazon Employee Review

4.0
Oct 8, 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Working at Amazon is like attending the most cutting-edge technology and business school you can imagine. The hiring bar is extremely high, so everyone is extremely talented. Amazon VP's are some of the smartest people you will ever meet. The whole company moves so quickly that every day you are working on a new major initiative. The leadership principles are literally used everyday - people quote them in meetings, and the company only focuses on customers, never on competitors. It's quite remarkable. If you get an offer to work at Amazon, take it.

Cons

I stayed for over 6 years which put me above 98% of other Amazonians (there's a tool called "oldfart" that compares your tenure to other employees). Most people only last 2-3 years for several reasons. First, the pace is relentless which at first is exhilarating but becomes downright fatiguing. Second, Amazon doesn't really care about you as a person - only as a productive cog in the machine. Third, the RSU award program is ok, but total comp is really only great if the stock is climbing 30% a year. Finally, everyone wants to hire an ex-Amazonian right now. When you combine these, Amazon becomes an amazing training ground, but not a great place to stay long-term.

Explore other reviews about Amazon

5.0
Jun 8, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Amazing company , the office and people are great

Cons

there are no cons for me.

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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