As one of the world’s leading e-commerce and tech companies, Amazon offers a broad spectrum of job opportunities that can cater to varied skill sets, experiences, and passions. From warehouse roles to data scientist positions, there truly is something for everyone.
To maneuver through the maze of possibilities at this company, it can be good to gain some perspective on the types of roles, the application process, and what Amazon specifically looks for in potential candidates.
This guide goes over all that and provides you with effective tips on how to successfully land a job. Plus, I’ll explain potential earnings and what employee benefits could look like so that you know what to expect in terms of how to get a job at Amazon.
Types of Jobs at Amazon
With the vast range of operations in Amazon, it is no surprise that the job opportunities available are just as varied. In fact, one of the most appealing aspects of a career at Amazon is the multitude of paths one can take.
Amazon has positions ranging from full-time to part-time and even seasonal positions. But, those roles can vary quite a bit depending on what department you choose to work at.
With that said, let’s delve into the types of jobs you can find under the Amazon umbrella.
Warehouse and Fulfilment Centers
If you are someone who enjoys hands-on engagement, loves finding efficient solutions to practical problems, or thrives in a physical role, these opportunities are for you. Full-time, part-time, or seasonal, these roles offer a variety of hours to work around your life.
Data & Analytics
Amazon relies heavily on data to make informed decisions for its operations, strategies, and planning. Therefore, roles in data analytics, data science, and business intelligence are integral to Amazon’s day-to-day and long-term operations. For lovers of numbers, patterns, and strategic planning, this could be your calling.
Research Scientist & Machine Learning
This type of role is ideal for those who have a passion for innovation, particularly in the fields of AI and Machine Learning. Research Scientists at Amazon are behind path-breaking advancements in their respective fields. They continually push boundaries and contribute to Amazon’s cutting-edge technology solutions.
Technology & Software Development
Engineers, developers, programmers, and more can find their place within Amazon’s tech spheres. With innovations in cloud computing, seamless online retail, digital streaming, and more, Amazon offers a buffet of challenges for tech professionals.
Operations, IT, & Support Engineering
This category includes IT support roles, operations managers, system engineers, and other positions that ensure a seamless working environment. If troubleshooting and real-time problem-solving excite you, then look no further.
Different Job Roles at Amazon
In this section, we’ll delve deeper into the variety of roles available at Amazon. Remember, Amazon’s operations span far beyond online retail, with a plethora of job roles under each job type.
Line and Functional Roles
Whether it’s in a corporate office or a warehouse, Amazon employs a multitude of people in both line and functional roles across its various sectors. A few examples of available roles at Amazon branches are outlined in the table below.
| Branch | Description |
| Amazon Web Services (AWS) | AWS is a subsidiary of Amazon and offers jobs in roles such as Solutions Architect, Product Manager, Data Centre Engineer, and Account Executive. |
| Amazon’s Retail | Beyond the corporations’ virtual walls, Amazon’s retail teams make sure that customers can buy whatever they want, from a Kindle to kitchenware. Some common roles here include Retail Associate, Area Manager and Shift Manager. |
| Amazon Studios | This is Amazon’s film and television production arm. If you’re interested in entertainment, roles within Amazon Studios might include Creative Executive, Production Coordinator, or Marketing Manager. |
Regardless of where you fit into this vast ecosystem, having clarity on the type of role that you wish to pursue is essential because it helps to focus your efforts when applying and preparing for interviews.
Requirements to Work at Amazon
The first and foremost step in your Amazon job journey is to decipher the requirements. Amazon looks for individuals who are driven by curiosity and innovation and who are not afraid to take calculated risks. However, these broad skill sets are complemented by role-specific requirements, which we’ll dive into now.
Age and Education Requirement
Job applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Depending on the job role, there can also be additional, more specific requirements.
Technical Knowledge
For instance, let’s consider a software development role. If you’re applying for this, you’ll need a relevant bachelor’s degree – and potentially a master’s – in Computer Science, along with a proficient understanding of modern programming languages like Java or C++. A few years of professional experience would be a bonus, and you’re expected to demonstrate your understanding of data structures, system design, and algorithms.
On the other hand, say you’re applying for an operations manager role. Here, you’ll likely need a bachelor’s degree in operations management or a related field, coupled with several years of experience managing operations. An understanding of business strategy, project management, and leadership skills would be paramount to your success in this role.
Physical Fitness
Even for entry-level warehouse roles, a key requirement is physical fitness due to the nature of the work, which might include lifting heavy objects or standing for extended periods.
Application and Hiring Process at Amazon
Whether you’re an established professional or just starting out, embarking on a new journey can be exciting yet daunting, especially when it involves starting a new role at a massive company like Amazon.
However, understanding the application and hiring process can help alleviate a lot of your worries. Here’s a breakdown of what the hiring process is generally like at Amazon.
Step 1: Submit Your Application
My first tip? Begin by visiting the Amazon Jobs portal. Here, you’ll find a comprehensive, user-friendly platform where you can search for positions based on keywords, location, or job category. Once you’ve found a position you’re interested in, click ‘Apply Now’ to get started. You’ll need to create an account, if you haven’t done so, to submit your application.
The application itself will require you to fill out information on your education and work history, alongside any certifications or special skills you hold. It’s a good time to brush up on your resume, something I strongly recommend, as Amazon likes to see quantifiable results from your previous roles.
Besides submitting an online application, Amazon hosts several recruiting events or job fairs, particularly for warehouse and customer service roles. It’s a great opportunity to meet recruiters, ask questions, and even expedite the hiring process. Even if you don’t live near an Amazon location, virtual events happen frequently – so it’s worthwhile keeping an eye on their events calendar!
Step 2: The Interview Process
Upon review of your application, if you meet the criteria for the position, Amazon’s recruitment team will reach out to schedule an initial phone interview, following which there may be one or more in-person interviews.
Step 3: Job Offer and Acceptance
If you’re successful in the interview and Amazon believes you’re a good fit for the role, you will then receive a job offer! Bear in mind that it can sometimes take a week or two to hear back, so don’t worry if you don’t receive an immediate response. Offers from Amazon can also include details of salary, bonuses, and stock options, plus a potential start date.
Tips to Ace the Interview at Amazon
As a prospective employee, anticipating and preparing for an Amazon interview can be one of the most challenging steps in the hiring process. However, there are several strategies that you can apply to successfully navigate this important stage and, hopefully, secure your coveted position at this giant tech company.
Tip #1: Revisit the Job Description
Begin your preparation by revisiting the job description. Evaluate the key responsibilities and required qualifications, and gather examples from your professional history to correlate with these points.
For example, if the job description mentions a need for problem-solving skills, think about instances from your past work experiences where you had a difficult problem to solve, how you approached it, and what the outcome was.
Step 2: Get to Know Amazon’s 14 Leadership Principles
Amazon’s 14 Leadership Principles are the core of the company’s unique culture. They guide its decision-making processes, and they are integral to the interview process. When preparing for the interview, familiarize yourself with these principles and integrate them into your responses.
Let’s say that you’re asked about a time you dealt with a difficult situation at work. Incorporating the “Customer Obsession” principle, you could discuss how you relentlessly focused on the customer’s needs to find a solution, in alignment with Amazon’s customer-centric approach.
Step 3: Practice Common Interview Questions
Typical Amazon interviews involve behavioral questions and competency-based questions. The behavioral questions often start with “Tell me about a time when…” and probe your ability to tackle complex issues using the 14 Leadership Principles. You can use the STAR method to answer these questions.
For instance, you could be asked, “Tell me about a time when you disagreed with a team decision. What did you do?” This question probes into your leadership principle of “Disagree and Commit.” Be sure to provide a balanced answer illustrating how you stood your ground initially but committed to the decision once it was made, prioritizing team unity over personal beliefs.
Other Tips to Help You Get a Job at Amazon
Whether you’re beginning your job search or are deep in the trenches of applications, interviews, and waiting periods, I want to equip you with extra knowledge to give you a competitive edge. Here are some additional pointers that don’t just apply to snagging a job at Amazon but could be helpful with any major company.
Networking
Utilize platforms like LinkedIn and career fairs to connect with current Amazon employees or recruiters. Start a conversation, ask thoughtful questions, and show genuine interest. Connecting with people who are already where you want to be can offer invaluable insights and potentially lead to a referral.
Tailor Your Application and Resume
This cannot be stressed enough. Avoid the temptation of sending a generic resume and cover letter for every job application. Instead, take time to customize each document according to the job description.
For instance, if you’re applying for a software development position at Amazon, emphasize your most relevant skills and experiences. Highlight the programming languages you’ve mastered, successful coding projects you’ve led, or how you were able to resiliently troubleshoot a stubborn technical glitch.
Familiarize Yourself with Amazon’s Leadership Principles
These principles are key decision drivers at the company. Show how you align with these principles in your application and interview responses to truly stand out.
What Are Salaries Like at Amazon?
When it comes to remuneration, Amazon prides itself on being competitive. The salary at Amazon largely depends on the job role and your previous work experience. For example, a warehouse worker can expect to earn around $15 per hour as a starting wage, while a software engineer might start somewhere in the six-figure range annually, according to Glassdoor data.
However, it’s equally important to understand that Amazon’s compensation package extends beyond just your base salary. Amazon’s compensation philosophy is designed to motivate and retain top talent.
Besides just your salary, you might also be granted performance-based bonuses and stock awards. It’s these aspects that can significantly boost the attractiveness of your compensation package. These offerings are particularly common in higher-level positions and corporate roles.
What to Know About Employee Benefits at Amazon
A vast and diverse company like Amazon aims to support its employees in various facets of their lives, acknowledging that their well-being directly impacts their performance and satisfaction at work. Amazon provides an extensive benefits package that kicks in from day one of your employment, designed to meet the needs of a diverse workforce. Below, we’ll delve into some of Amazon’s benefits.
Health and Wellness Benefits
Amazon offers a choice of healthcare plans that include medical, dental, and vision. The options include comprehensive healthcare plans to cover you and your eligible family members, ensuring that you can get the necessary care when you need it.
One interesting benefit Amazon has implemented is the “Resources For Living,” a free, confidential, 24/7 support line available to all employees and their families. This initiative provides access to trained counselors for guidance on mental health, crisis assistance, parenting issues, and more.
Retirement Benefits
Planning for the future is equally important, and Amazon provides several tools to help employees secure their retirement. The 401(k) savings plan includes a company match, meaning Amazon contributes an additional 50% of your contribution up to 4% of your eligible pay.
Additional Perks
Amazon extends beyond the traditional benefits with additional perks aimed at improving satisfaction and loyalty among employees.
The Career Choice Program, for example, pre-pays 100% of tuition for employees seeking further education in high-demand fields, even if the field isn’t relevant to their job at Amazon. The program also has on-site classrooms in the fulfillment centers, encouraging employees to pursue their education while balancing work responsibilities.
Other perks include the Amazon employee discount, which employees can apply to products sold by Amazon, and paid parental leave, which includes up to 20 weeks of maternity leave.
Land Your Dream Job at Amazon
Whether you’re excited about exploring a part-time opportunity, joining the Amazon team full-time, or you’re intrigued by a seasonal challenge, this company offers plenty of positions. It’s a place with unique and valuable benefits and one where you can easily launch a successful career.
Just remember that in order to be truly successful in an Amazon interview, you need to understand their leadership principles and properly prepare. That way, you’ll be well on the right track to acing the interview.
If you feel you need additional guidance as you start this interview journey, we can help. Check out our other articles with career advice and interview tips to help you get a job at Amazon and start a new career.