Swamped with legacy hacks - Software Development Engineer I Amazon Employee Review

1.0
21 Jul 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

There are great opportunities and the scale at which Amazon operates is amazing.

Cons

Only 10% of the time is spent on new development, and the rest we are putting out fires. Prepare to inherit a legacy of hacks with little tests and no documentation (tribal knowledge is the norm). You will have to keep this software running 24/7 and do whatever it takes to keep it up to date with whatever changes in the runtime environment.

Explore other reviews about Amazon

5.0
20 Mar 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Medical/ dental/ vision insurance, mental assistance, 401k, lawyer assistance, Career choice, VTO, PTO, vacation time

Cons

Most AMs have avoritism among employees. We get mandatory extra time (now is calling "voluntary" but you have to go when it is schedule) at the end of the year, what makes difficult for some of us when we have kids and they're really rigid about it.

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
See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All