Smart people, terrible work-life balance - Software Development Engineer II Amazon Employee Review

2.0
Jul 8, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- agile, fast-paced development - smart, supportive teammates - you will learn a lot very quickly - lots of stock, but base pay is on the lower end for a FAANG company

Cons

- company prioritizes fast deliverables over quality - terrible work-life balance, it was very normal to work 12-15 hour days to keep up with the heavy workload. I didn't meet a single engineer there who hadn't burned out at some point - unclear longterm goals and lots of pivoting, especially after pivoting to AI - stack ranking system is unfair, not data-driven, and forces cutthroat competition between teammates because management has to meet a quota of employees to PIP every year

Explore other reviews about Amazon

5.0
May 26, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

-Structural and organize -High pay -All training done on site

Cons

-Before start date very limited, information about AWS(They don't like sharing over the internet. -Fast pace with training and learning.

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