Good Perks, But Doesn't Pay Most workers a living wage - Anonymous employee Sweetwater Employee Review

3.0
Jan 25, 2017
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Can purchase gear at company cost

Cons

Mandatory overtime for warehouse, sometimes reaching 65-70 hrs a week. Not a lot of upward mobility.

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Sweetwater Response
9y
We're sorry this employee isn't happy with the wages in our Distribution Center. Our starting rate there is $10 an hour, with a bump to $10.25 after the first 90 days. That translates to 41% higher than the current minimum wage. Typically employees receive annual increases each spring. The company also provides a lot of unique amenities not found at other area Distribution Centers for all employees (see our Career center page to check these out: free Health Club with Personal trainer, racquetball court, indoor golf simulator, DVD lending library, Medical clinic, gaming room, an onsite restaurant, gourmet coffee shop, and hair salon, concierge services, etc. ) and we pride ourselves on treating employees well. Last year all employees enjoyed two Christmas parties, a company picnic, a free trip to Cedar Point Amusement Park, free minor league sports outings, and a free turkey for their family at Thanksgiving. Though it's correct that there was a significant amount of overtime during our peak shipping period between Thanksgiving and Christmas (which of course paid out at time and a half) it is not something that occurs year round. Last year nearly 20% of employees in the Distribution Center received some form of promotion to a higher paying position. ---Jeff McDonald, Senior VP of HR

Explore other reviews about Sweetwater

5.0
Jun 10, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The job requires a versatile mindset. It is not just one job, it is multiple jobs. For me I like switching it up and staying on my feet. This job is not only customer facing but also warehouse. So it is the best of both worlds.

Cons

Sometimes you are required to lift heavier boxes but you usually get help if needed.

4.0
Jun 5, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

If sales and music are your drives, Sweetwater is as good as it gets. Management in my experience has been very supportive and development-oriented, creating a positive culture around the company. They have a fantastic training program (albeit intense) that trains on both products and sales methods, so even if you're lacking experience in a given category there's plenty of coaching and training to get you ready for the role. Over time, the position can also be quite lucrative which compliments Fort Wayne's low cost of living well. They also offer relocation assistance since all positions are on-site, and a great benefits package. I've been fortunate to become great friends with many of my coworkers and honestly some days don't even feel like work. Ultimately, with this job you get what you put in, and making a solid living to geek out over music gear all day is a pretty sweet gig.

Cons

The job is very demanding - it's a fully commission sales job that revolves around constant customer outreach via call, text, and email. This means starting out is tough financially, and days are usually long. Try to have a savings cushion before you start, especially if you're moving from another city/state. You also work nights, holidays, and rotate through weekend shifts which won't be new for those who have worked retail before, but it's still a tough adjustment. Starting out I struggled from a social aspect as well. Fort Wayne is a cool city, but it's no LA, NY, or Chicago. Long hours at work make going out and making friends or getting involved in community groups/organizations difficult.

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