Amazon SWE vs Systems Engineer

Dec 12, 2019 3 Comments

I'm currently in process of getting a position either as a SWE or SysE @Amazon. My coding skills are intermediate level, and I think for SDE you need to be an expert. Recruiter said I'd fit better as a SysE since I'm also working on getting the aws solutions architect cert. Based on each role, how's work/life balance? Recruiter mentioned that SysE are on call, and get bonuses for having clearance. What is the salary range I should be asking for? This is in the DC metro area (Arlington/Herndon). I asked for base at 120k. Is that reasonable or too low?

YoE: 5
TC: 110

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TOP 3 Comments
  • Amazon / Eng
    El Pee

    Go to company page Amazon Eng

    El Pee
    If you want TC, fight for SDE. As a general guideline, the roles are:

    SysEng - able to automate/script for operational issues
    SysDE - tools builder
    SDE - service builder
    Dec 12, 2019 0
  • Amazon
    cbdmn

    Go to company page Amazon

    cbdmn
    When I applied as an L5 SysE my offer was around 161 TC. I had 10 YOE if that helps. When I pushed for higher (previous TC was 145 in low COL) they suggested to interview as a SysDev. Feel free to message me if you have any questions. Since you have a clearance I'm guessing we have a similar background
    Dec 12, 2019 0
  • New
    ash_ketch

    New

    ash_ketch
    Someone correct me if I'm wrong but syseng at amazon are the backend support for internal systems (could be apps, could be infra, etc). Not sure if they are external facing systems such as amazon.com and dependent services.
    Dec 12, 2019 0