Tech IndustryFeb 27, 2020
Newbytes1ze

Preparing for an SDM interview at Amazon

I have passed the initial screening for a potential Software Development Manager role at Amazon, apparently I will be attending an amazon recruiting event and have another round of interviews in person What are SDM interviews like and how should I prepare ? Amazon has a reputation as a meat grinder, if you are an SDM what does a typical day look like for you ?

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Amazon cAkv20 Feb 27, 2020

Meetings from 9-6pm

Amazon satsun Feb 28, 2020

This. If you are lucky 9 - 5.

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fghi123 Feb 27, 2020

What did the initial screening involve? Coding?

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bytes1ze OP Feb 28, 2020

The initial screening involved a scenario with multiple questions....basically it describes a work problem. You are a SDM in charge of a team responsible for a shipping service. The API is spelled out for you as well as the performance and service level agreements. Then you are given a scenario where Product asks you to make changes to your service and you are asked about the implications and how you would respond. They also ask you scenarios about your team and what you would do in certain situations. It was not easy, and forced you to think.

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moonaa Mar 1, 2020

I believe Amazon SDM onsites are usually all LPs and one System Design round. However I am hearing for the first time the phone interview style you mentioned. Which group is this for ? Also YOE ?

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bytes1ze OP Mar 3, 2020

I don’t know the group yet, I’ll find out more from the recruiter later. I made it to the on-site interview in a couple of weeks but since the Coronavirus is a thing, it’s going to be virtual. 15 YOE with 5 as an Engineering Manager

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TheTwo Mar 3, 2020

That’s news. Onsites are being virtualized for Corona ! Likely because it’s for Seattle location I guess

Amazon nCRU27 Mar 4, 2020

You can coach yourself for coding or system design interviews by using this service. www.techinterviewinsights.com

Groupon SpearWind Mar 8, 2020

how much time initial (phone) screen was for ? What was focus areas ?

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Monaster Mar 9, 2020

Did anyone here have a written assignment before the onsite ? How did that go ?

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bytes1ze OP Mar 10, 2020

The written assignment is 2 hours long and is a series of questions based on an initial scenario. Then you are given follow up questions based on the scenario. It wasn’t easy

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Monaster Mar 10, 2020

Thanks. Do you know when and by whom is it evaluated ? Was it discussed during the onsite ?