Pros
The pay and benefits package is excellent, and the regular season schedule includes a four-day workweek, providing solid work-life balance. I also formed a lifelong friendship during my time there. Overall, it is a strong entry-level role and a great stepping stone right out of college. This position allows you to learn a tremendous amount in a short period. Many people say that six months at Amazon is equivalent to two years of experience elsewhere. It also looks impressive on a resume, and I received outreach from multiple companies for interviews once I started applying after about a year. Just be careful not to stay stagnant in the role for more than two to three years. It is best to pursue opportunities to get promoted, move upward elsewhere, or explore lateral moves within the organization, such as transferring to a support department or moving into a corporate role.
Cons
The work environment can be political, with long hours and high-scope projects often required for advancement. There is limited formal process training. During prime/peak periods such as July, October, and November and December, workweeks can reach 60 to 80 hours. This is a warehouse role, and associates often have a strong disdain for area managers. The warehouse can be hot and loud, and area managers typically walk several miles a day. There is little opportunity to sit, and the only desk is on the warehouse floor, which is standing only. Safety shoes can also be uncomfortable. Managers receive monthly performance reviews based on scores given by associates, and they can be moved around within the organization with little notice, which can make them feel like pawns. The role also experiences a high turnover rate. New hires should be aware of compensation structures tied to retention: the sign-on bonus usually requires a one-year commitment, relocation assistance requires two years, and stock compensation takes time to vest. These requirements can feel restrictive and even manipulative, especially for younger college hires who may not fully understand the obligations when accepting the offer.