Okay Compensation, Opportunity Galore, Broken Promotion System - SDE1 Amazon Employee Review

3.0
Jan 5, 2018
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Lots of opportunities to work on different interesting projects and teams. Relatively good emphasis on best engineering practices and bar. New teams constantly cropping up and looking for engineers.

Cons

Compensation is sub-par compared to Facebook, Google and other Triple-A Companies. (Vesting Schedule and Compensation Band is a joke) “Transparent” & “Self-Driven” Promotion Document and Process is laughable as it only adds more bureaucratic obstacles (aka B.S) before one can even get considered for promotion - In the end, still requires manager to fight for your promotion (and whether your perceived projects have enough impact and fills all Engineering “Trackers”) Oncall duties can range from annoying to overwhelming depending on the team.

Explore other reviews about Amazon

5.0
Mar 14, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- Lots of freedom to work

Cons

- Could be paid more I guess

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
See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All