Only for people willing to make their job their life. - Support Engineer Amazon Employee Review

2.0
26 Aug 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I was in Amazon Web Services on the EC2 team so this may or may not be relevant to Amazon as a whole. Anyway, you're surrounded by smart, capable people, which is great, and you're working on products that a lot of businesses are going to use.

Cons

Because of Amazon's ruthless policies, your co-workers are your enemies, not your friends. You're all fighting not to be the among the bottom-ranked in your team or department, and thus you must constantly be concerned about making yourself look good and your co-workers look bad. Friendships are a liability, though alliances may not. Also for that purpose, visibility is important. It's not sufficient to do your job and know your stuff; you have to make everyone aware of it. Don't be the invisible one in the back toiling away getting no recognition; that gets you fired. Below 50 hours a week and you're in the firing crosshairs. The internal saying is "If you want work-life balance, you don't love your job enough". Amazon deliberately understaffs, partly in the belief that the sheer pressure will drive innovation. You have to be aggressive in making sure other people are prominently and visibly blamed when you can't get stuff done.

Explore other reviews about Amazon

5.0
28 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Competitive hourly pay in many locations Benefits may include health insurance and tuition assistance Flexible scheduling options at some warehouses Opportunities for overtime and extra pay Entry-level job with minimal experience required

Cons

Physically demanding work with long hours standing or lifting Fast-paced environment with strict productivity targets Repetitive tasks can become tiring Work schedules may include nights, weekends, or holidays High stress during peak shopping seasons like holidays

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.

3159
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