Software Development Engineer - Software Development Engineer I Amazon Employee Review

1.0
1 Apr 2016
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

If you don't have any development experience there can be a lot to be gained. Compensation is ok for new developers, but not so much for more experienced ones.

Cons

Intra-departmental politics can be a mess sometimes, people like to backstab each other with the anytime feedback tool. Can't say no to requests, have to do everything half-assed. Burnout rate is pretty high, knowledgeable people always leave. Oncall rotations in small teams is a nightmare. Technical debt isn't usually taken care of because "the oncall will take care of it". Time spent doing operational stuff/fixing can be more than actual development. Most projects are written in "death marches" and is horrible to maintain and add features later. Vancouver location is where they put all the people who can't get H1Bs.

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5.0
24 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great team and researchers at FAR

Cons

Bureaucracy stops us from our full potential

5.0
10 Jan 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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