Amazon Software Engineer Levels: Roles, Expectations and Salary

Key Takeaways

• Clear Career Progression: Amazon’s structured levelling system (SDE I, SDE II, SDE III, Principal, Senior Principal, Distinguished Engineer) offers a clear roadmap for career advancement. Each level is associated with specific responsibilities, skills, and compensation.
• Competitive Compensation: Amazon offers some of the highest salaries in the tech industry, including substantial stock options and bonuses. For example, an SDE I can earn a total compensation of around $180K, while a Principal SDE can earn up to $644K annually.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Amazon provides extensive benefits, including healthcare coverage, insurance options, parental leave, and stock units, ensuring employees are well-supported in various aspects of their personal and professional lives.
• High Expectations and Responsibilities: As engineers advance, they take on greater responsibilities, from basic coding and debugging at SDE I to leading significant projects and making critical technical decisions at the Principal and Senior Principal levels.
• Customer-Centric Culture: Amazon emphasizes customer obsession, strongly focusing on delivering high-quality solutions and services. Engineers are encouraged to think from the customer’s perspective in all their work.
• Focus on Skill Development: Continuous learning and skill development are crucial at Amazon. Engineers must stay updated with the latest technologies and methodologies and demonstrate strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and leadership qualities to progress.

Introduction

Consider the opportunity to work at one of the world’s most forward-thinking and impactful tech companies—Amazon. The position of Software Engineer at Amazon is highly sought after in the tech industry. Known for its vibrant work culture, groundbreaking projects, and competitive compensation, Amazon offers an unparalleled career path. However, to truly excel and advance in this dynamic environment, it’s crucial to understand Amazon’s Software Engineer Levels. This insight can be the key to unlocking your potential and accelerating your career growth at Amazon.

Technology is advancing unprecedentedly, shaping the world around us in remarkable ways. The demand for skilled software engineers is soaring. Among the tech giants, Amazon stands out with its globally recognized products like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Alexa, and Prime, which have become an integral part of the daily lives of millions worldwide.

Recent salary data from levels.fyi shows that the average salary for an Amazon Software Engineer in the US is around $284,000 per year, with salaries ranging from $180,000 to $644,000 depending on experience and role. Many aspiring programmers hope for a six-figure salary when considering working at Amazon. Knowing how the pay scale works and how you can move from entry-level to higher positions is vital for anyone wanting to build a career at Amazon.

This article is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of Amazon’s Software Engineer levels and how to progress within them. We will delve into the different levels, their responsibilities, and what factors influence career growth at Amazon. So, let’s dive in and discover the roadmap to success at Amazon!

Overview of Amazon’s Software Engineering Levels

Amazon’s Software Engineering Levels are designed to structure career progression and clearly define roles and responsibilities. From SDE I, where entry-level engineers focus on foundational coding and debugging, the levels advance to SDE II and SDE III, where engineers take on more complex projects, mentor junior staff, and contribute to system architecture. Principal SDEs and Senior Principal SDEs (Levels 7 and 8) lead large teams, make critical technical decisions, and drive business growth through innovative solutions. Distinguished Engineers (Level 10) hold significant influence across the organization, often involved in strategic planning and implementing cutting-edge technologies. Each level offers increasing challenges, responsibilities, and compensation, reflecting the growth and expertise expected at Amazon.

Amazon Engineering Levels

• Software Development Engineer I (SDE I) (Level 4 | 0-2 years of experience)
• Software Development Engineer II (SDE II) (Level 5 | 2-5 years of experience)
• Software Development Engineer III (SDE III) (Level 6 | 5-10 years of experience)
• Principal Software Development Engineer (Principal SDE) (Level 7 | 10-15 years of experience)
• Senior Principal Software Development Engineer (Senior Principal SDE) (Level 8 | 15+ years of experience)
• Distinguished Engineer/VP (Level 10 | Exceptional experience and contributions)

Amazon Management Levels

• Software Development Manager I (SDM I) (Level 5 | 5-7 years of experience)
• Software Development Manager II (SDM II) (Level 6 | 7-10 years of experience)
• Senior Software Development Manager (Sr. SDM) (Level 7 | 10-15 years of experience)
• Director (Level 8 | 15+ years of experience)
• Vice President (VP) (Level 10 | Exceptional leadership and contributions)
• Senior Vice President (SVP) (Level 11 | Top-tier leadership and company-wide influence)

What are the different Amazon Software Engineer Levels?

Amazon Level Grading, Expectations and Salaries

Level 4: Software Development Engineer I (SDE I)

Role Description

Level 4 Software Development Engineer I (SDE I) positions at Amazon are typically entry-level roles suitable for recent college graduates or individuals with limited professional experience. These positions serve as a launchpad for new engineers to start their careers in one of the world’s most dynamic and innovative tech companies.

Expectations

Responsibilities:

• Coding: SDE I engineers are primarily responsible for writing and debugging code. They work on well-defined tasks and contribute to developing small features within larger projects. This hands-on coding experience helps them build a strong foundation in software development.
• Feature Development: At this level, engineers start by working on small, manageable features. These tasks allow them to gain confidence and develop their skills incrementally. They learn to understand the requirements, implement solutions, and ensure their code integrates seamlessly with the larger codebase.
• Subsystem Design: SDE I engineers also get opportunities to design very small subsystems under the guidance of more experienced engineers. This exposure to system design principles helps them understand how different components of a system interact and contribute to the overall functionality.

Support and Guidance:

• Mentorship: New hires at this level receive significant support and guidance from more experienced team members. Mentorship is a key aspect of their development, as senior engineers provide valuable feedback, answer questions, and help them navigate the complexities of their tasks.
• Team Collaboration: SDE I engineers are integrated into project teams where they can learn from their peers and collaborate on various aspects of software development. This teamwork fosters a collaborative learning environment and helps them build essential communication and teamwork skills.

Skill Development:

• Technical Skills: Working on real-world projects helps SDE I engineers enhance their programming skills, gain proficiency in different programming languages (such as Java, C++, or Python), and become familiar with Amazon’s development tools and practices.
• Problem-Solving: SDE I engineers develop their problem-solving abilities by tackling small features and subsystems. They learn to identify issues, propose solutions, and implement fixes while adhering to best practices and coding standards.
• System Design: Exposure to subsystem design allows these engineers to start understanding the fundamentals of system architecture. They learn how to break down complex problems into manageable parts and design scalable and maintainable solutions.

Career Growth:

• Pathway to Advancement: The SDE I role is designed to be a stepping stone for career advancement within Amazon. As engineers gain experience and demonstrate their capabilities, they become eligible for promotion to higher levels, such as SDE II and beyond.
• Continuous Learning: Amazon encourages continuous learning and skill development. SDE I engineers have access to a variety of training programs, workshops, and resources that help them grow professionally and prepare for more challenging roles in the future.

Average Salary

Level 4 Software Development Engineer I (SDE I) positions at Amazon serve as an excellent starting point for recent college graduates or individuals with limited professional experience. The average base salary for an SDE I at Amazon ranges from $111,000 to $121,000 per year. In addition to this competitive base salary, SDE I engineers receive bonuses and stock options, bringing the total annual compensation to approximately $136,613 on average. These additional compensation elements, including performance-based bonuses and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) that vest over time, significantly enhance the financial benefits of working at Amazon.

Level 5: Software Development Engineer II (SDE II)

Role Description

Level 5 Software Development Engineer II (SDE II) positions at Amazon are pivotal roles for individuals who have developed a solid foundation in software engineering and are ready to take on more significant responsibilities. Often considered the workhorses of the company, SDE IIs handle a substantial scope of work and play a crucial role in driving Amazon’s technological advancements.

Expectations

Responsibilities:

• Self-Sufficiency: SDE II engineers are expected to work independently, handling their tasks with minimal supervision. They demonstrate the ability to manage their workload, prioritize tasks, and deliver high-quality results consistently.
• Team Impact: Initially, SDE IIs contribute significantly to their immediate team’s goals. They collaborate closely with other engineers, participate in code reviews, and provide valuable input during the development process.
• System Ownership and Design: As they gain experience, SDE IIs begin to take ownership of larger systems and components. They are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining these systems, ensuring they meet performance, scalability, and reliability requirements.
• Team Leadership: SDE IIs often assume leadership roles within their teams, guiding junior engineers and serving as mentors. They help to shape the development process, enforce coding standards, and foster a collaborative and productive team environment.
• Cross-Team Impact: Beyond their immediate team, SDE IIs start to influence projects across multiple teams. They work on cross-functional projects, coordinate with different departments, and contribute to company-wide initiatives. Their ability to navigate and impact broader organizational goals is a testament to their growing expertise and leadership skills.

Skill Development:

• Technical Skills: At this level, engineers continue to hone their technical skills, gaining deeper knowledge in programming languages, software development tools, and system architecture. They stay updated with the latest industry trends and incorporate best practices into their work.
• Problem-Solving: SDE IIs tackle more complex problems, requiring innovative solutions and strategic thinking. Their problem-solving skills are critical in addressing challenges that arise during the development lifecycle.
• Communication: Effective communication is essential for SDE IIs, both within their teams and when working with cross-functional groups. They must articulate technical concepts clearly, provide constructive feedback, and ensure alignment with project goals.

Career Growth:

• Pathway to Senior Roles: The SDE II role is a significant stepping stone toward more senior positions within Amazon. Successful SDE IIs who demonstrate strong leadership, technical expertise, and impactful contributions are well-positioned for promotion to SDE III and higher roles.
• Continuous Learning: Amazon encourages continuous learning and professional development. SDE IIs have access to various training programs, workshops, and resources to expand their knowledge and skills, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.

Average Salary

Level 5 Software Development Engineer II (SDE II) positions at Amazon come with significant responsibilities and competitive compensation. The average base salary for an SDE II is approximately $144,000 per year, with total compensation, including performance-based bonuses and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), averaging $283,300 annually. These RSUs vest over time, aligning employee interests with the company’s long-term success.

Level 6: Software Development Engineer III (SDE III)

Role Description

Level 6 Senior Software Development Engineer (SDE III) positions at Amazon are advanced roles that come with extensive responsibilities and significant impact within the organization. These positions are typically held by highly experienced engineers who have demonstrated exceptional technical skills, leadership abilities, and the capacity to drive large-scale projects.

Expectations

Responsibilities:

• Team Leadership: SDE III engineers lead one or multiple teams, guiding their efforts and ensuring alignment with Amazon’s strategic goals. They play a crucial role in mentoring junior engineers, providing technical guidance, and fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Infrastructure Ownership: At this level, engineers take ownership of large pieces of Amazon’s infrastructure. This includes maintaining existing systems, optimizing performance, and ensuring scalability and reliability. They are responsible for the health and performance of critical systems that support Amazon’s vast operations.
• System Design: SDE IIIs are instrumental in designing new large-scale systems and services. They work on complex projects that require innovative solutions and robust architectures. Their designs must accommodate future growth, integrate seamlessly with other systems, and meet high standards of performance and security.
• Organizational Impact: Engineers at this level have a broad impact, often influencing the work of 25-50 engineers or more. They collaborate with various teams across the organization, ensuring that their projects align with Amazon’s overall objectives and contribute to the company’s success.

Skill Development:

• Advanced Technical Skills: SDE III engineers continuously refine their technical skills, staying abreast of the latest technologies and industry trends. They are experts in multiple programming languages, development frameworks, and architectural patterns.
• Problem-Solving and Innovation: They tackle some of the most challenging problems in the organization, requiring creative and effective solutions. Their ability to innovate and think strategically is crucial for developing systems that drive Amazon’s technological edge.
• Leadership and Communication: Effective leadership and communication skills are essential for SDE III engineers. They must be able to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring clarity and alignment across teams.

Career Growth:

• Pathway to Principal Roles: The SDE III role is a critical stepping stone to higher-level positions such as Principal SDE. Engineers who excel at this level and demonstrate exceptional leadership and technical expertise can advance to even more influential roles within Amazon.
• Continuous Learning and Development: Amazon provides numerous opportunities for continuous learning and professional development. SDE III engineers have access to advanced training programs, workshops, and conferences to further enhance their skills and knowledge.

Average Salary

Level 6 Senior Software Development Engineer (SDE III) positions at Amazon come with a highly competitive compensation package. The average base salary for an SDE III is approximately $201,000 per year. When factoring in performance-based bonuses and substantial Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) that vest over time, the total annual compensation averages around $384,300. These RSUs are designed to align the engineer’s interests with the long-term success of the company.

Level 7: Principal Engineer (Principal SDE)

Role Description

Level 7 Principal Software Development Engineer (Principal SDE) positions at Amazon are rare and highly prestigious roles reserved for top-tier engineering talent. Engineers at this level are recognized for their exceptional technical expertise, leadership abilities, and significant contributions to the company’s strategic initiatives. Principal SDEs play a critical role in shaping the technical direction of Amazon and driving innovation across the organization.

Expectations

Responsibilities:

• Strategic Technical Leadership: Principal SDEs provide expert technical guidance to directors and Vice Presidents (VPs). They counsel senior leadership on technological decisions, ensuring that projects align with Amazon’s long-term goals and strategic vision. Their insights and recommendations are highly valued in the decision-making process.
• System Ownership: Principal SDEs own multiple large and complex systems that are integral to the functioning of entire business units. They are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of these systems, ensuring they meet the highest standards of performance, scalability, and reliability.
• Driving Business Units: The systems and solutions developed by Principal SDEs often drive entire business units, contributing directly to Amazon’s growth and success. Their work impacts critical areas such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), e-commerce platforms, and customer experience technologies.
• Organizational Impact: Principal SDEs have a broad and far-reaching impact, influencing the work of 50-100+ engineers across various teams. They lead cross-functional initiatives, coordinate large-scale projects, and ensure seamless integration of new technologies into existing infrastructures.

Skill Development:

• Expert Technical Skills: Engineers at this level possess deep technical expertise across multiple domains. They are proficient in advanced programming languages, system architecture, distributed systems, and cutting-edge technologies. Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends are vital for maintaining their technical edge.
• Innovative Problem-Solving: Principal SDEs tackle some of the most challenging and complex problems within the organization. Their ability to innovate and develop creative solutions is crucial for advancing Amazon’s technological capabilities and maintaining its competitive advantage.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Effective leadership and mentorship are core aspects of the Principal SDE role. They mentor senior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement. Their leadership extends beyond technical guidance, encompassing strategic planning and organizational development.

Career Growth:

• Pathway to Distinguished Engineer: Principal SDEs who demonstrate extraordinary leadership, innovation, and impact may advance to the role of Distinguished Engineer (Level 10). This position entails even greater responsibilities and influence within Amazon.
• Professional Recognition: Achieving the level of Principal SDE is a significant professional milestone, recognizing an engineer’s contributions and expertise. It positions them as leaders in their field, both within Amazon and in the broader tech community.

Average Salary

Level 7 Principal Software Development Engineer (Principal SDE) positions at Amazon offer a highly lucrative compensation package reflecting the role’s significance and responsibilities. The average base salary for a Principal SDE is approximately $259,800 per year. When factoring in substantial stock options and bonuses, the total annual compensation can average around $644,800. These Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) vest over time, ensuring long-term financial benefits aligned with the company’s success.

Level 8: Senior Principal Engineer (Senior Principal SDE)

Role Description

Level 8 Senior Principal Software Development Engineer (Senior Principal SDE) positions at Amazon represent the pinnacle of technical leadership and innovation. Engineers in these roles are entrusted with launching groundbreaking systems that have never been developed before, significantly impacting large lines of business and influencing the work of hundreds of engineers. Senior Principal SDEs are responsible for defining the technical direction for substantial parts of the company, ensuring that Amazon remains at the forefront of technological advancement.

Expectations

Responsibilities:

• Innovative System Launches: Senior Principal SDEs spearhead the development and deployment of massive, unprecedented systems. These projects often involve pioneering new technologies and methodologies, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the tech industry.
• Business Impact: The systems and solutions developed by Senior Principal SDEs drive entire business units, playing a crucial role in Amazon’s strategic initiatives and market competitiveness. Their work supports key areas such as AWS, e-commerce, and customer engagement platforms, directly contributing to Amazon’s growth and success.
• Organizational Influence: Senior Principal SDEs have a profound impact across the organization, influencing the work of hundreds of engineers. They lead large, cross-functional teams, ensuring that projects are executed efficiently and align with Amazon’s strategic goals.
• Defining Technical Direction: One of the most critical responsibilities of Senior Principal SDEs is setting the technical direction for large parts of the company. They make high-level architectural decisions, establish technical standards, and drive innovation across multiple departments.

Skill Development:

• Advanced Technical Expertise: Engineers at this level possess deep and extensive technical knowledge. They are experts in system architecture, distributed systems, cloud computing, and other advanced technologies. Continuous learning and staying ahead of industry trends are essential to maintaining their expertise.
• Strategic Thinking: Senior Principal SDEs must think strategically, understanding the broader business implications of their technical decisions. Their ability to align technical initiatives with business goals is crucial for driving Amazon’s long-term success.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Effective leadership is a cornerstone of the Senior Principal SDE role. They mentor other senior engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Their leadership extends beyond technical guidance to include strategic planning and organizational development.

Career Growth:

• Pathway to Distinguished Engineer and Beyond: Exceptional Senior Principal SDEs may advance to the role of Distinguished Engineer (Level 10), where they will have even greater influence and responsibilities. This position represents the highest level of technical leadership at Amazon.
• Professional Recognition: Achieving the level of Senior Principal SDE is a significant professional milestone, recognizing an engineer’s outstanding contributions and expertise. It positions them as leaders in their field, both within Amazon and in the broader tech community.

Average Salary

The average salary for a Level 8 Senior Principal Software Development Engineer (Senior Principal SDE) at Amazon is highly competitive, reflecting the role’s significance and responsibilities. The base salary for this position averages around $259,400 per year. When including substantial stock options and performance bonuses, the total annual compensation can reach approximately $917,500. These Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) vest over time, providing long-term financial benefits aligned with the company’s success.

Level 9: Engineer (SDE 9)

Role Description

Level 9 does not exist. The next level is Level 10.

Level 10: Distinguished Engineer/VP (Distinguished SDE/VP)

Role Description

Level 10 Vice President (VP) and Distinguished Engineer positions at Amazon are reserved for individuals who are industry leaders with a remarkable track record of technical excellence and innovation. These roles are held by visionaries who drive Amazon’s long-term company vision and strategy. A prime example is James Gosling, the creator of Java, who was hired into this prestigious level, reflecting the caliber of talent and leadership expected at this tier.

Expectations

• Industry Leadership: VPs and Distinguished Engineers at this level are recognized as thought leaders within the tech industry. They have a history of significant contributions to technology and innovation, often holding numerous patents, publications, and accolades. Their expertise influences not only Amazon but the broader tech community.
• Long-Term Vision: These leaders are responsible for shaping and executing Amazon’s long-term technology vision. They identify future trends, anticipate market shifts, and develop strategies that position Amazon as a continued leader in the tech industry. Their foresight and strategic planning ensure that Amazon remains at the cutting edge of technology.
• Strategic Decision-Making: VPs and Distinguished Engineers make high-stakes decisions that impact Amazon’s overall direction. They are involved in setting technical standards, defining architectural principles, and guiding major technological investments. Their decisions have far-reaching implications for the company’s growth and innovation.
• Mentorship and Development: As leaders, they mentor other senior engineers and technical leaders within the organization. They play a crucial role in developing the next generation of tech talent at Amazon, fostering a culture of innovation, excellence, and continuous learning.

Software Engineer Levels Average Salary per Country 

Google offers competitive salaries for Software Engineers at every level. Salaries may vary depending on location, but Google is known for providing generous compensation packages, which include base salary, bonuses, and stock grants. Let’s take a look at the salaries of Google’s Software Engineers at different levels in various countries:

Engineering Levels Comparison across FAANG

Conclusion

Amazon offers a well-defined and structured career path for software engineers and management roles, providing clear professional growth and development milestones. With competitive compensation packages, comprehensive benefits, and a culture that values innovation and customer obsession, Amazon stands out as an exceptional place to build a career. Understanding the various levels and the skills required to advance is crucial for anyone aiming to thrive in this dynamic environment. By leveraging this knowledge, aspiring professionals can strategically navigate their careers, unlocking their potential and contributing to Amazon’s ongoing success as a leader in the tech industry. Whether you are just starting as an SDE I or aiming for a senior management position, Amazon provides ample opportunities to grow, learn, and make a significant impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)