What are the three rounds of Amazon interview?

Amazon's interview process typically consists of three main rounds for most technical and non-technical roles. While the specifics may vary depending on the position, the general structure includes:

1. Phone Screen (or Initial Technical Screen)

The first round is usually a phone interview, which can either be a behavioral or technical screening. For technical roles, this round involves solving coding or problem-solving questions, often conducted through an online shared editor or coding platform.

  • Duration: 30-60 minutes
  • Focus: For technical roles, expect data structures, algorithms, and coding challenges. For non-technical roles, expect behavioral questions based on Amazon’s Leadership Principles.
  • Preparation: Practice common coding problems and behavioral questions. Be ready to discuss your experience and why you're a good fit for Amazon.

2. Technical or Onsite Interview (Virtual or In-Person)

This second round is more in-depth and can consist of multiple interviews. In some cases, it may include a coding challenge, system design interview (for senior roles), or more detailed behavioral questions. This round may also involve multiple interviewers from different teams or departments.

  • Duration: 45-60 minutes per session, often with 3-4 back-to-back interviews
  • Focus: Coding (for technical roles), behavioral questions, and sometimes design problems. Leadership Principles are often assessed in every round.
  • Preparation: For coding, focus on algorithms, data structures, and system design if applicable. For behavioral interviews, practice STAR method responses to demonstrate alignment with Amazon's Leadership Principles.

3. Bar Raiser Interview

One unique aspect of Amazon’s interview process is the Bar Raiser interview. A "Bar Raiser" is an interviewer who is trained to ensure that Amazon maintains a high hiring standard. This person isn’t part of the team you would be working with directly, and their role is to make sure the candidate meets Amazon's high bar for skills and cultural fit.

  • Duration: 45-60 minutes
  • Focus: Leadership Principles, behavioral questions, and sometimes technical problem-solving. The Bar Raiser will focus on ensuring that you exceed the typical standard for hiring.
  • Preparation: Be ready to dive deep into your experiences, and clearly explain your problem-solving and leadership skills. Have strong examples that align with Amazon's Leadership Principles.

Summary of the Three Rounds of an Amazon Interview:

  1. Phone Screen: Initial technical or behavioral screening, often focusing on coding or leadership principles.
  2. Technical or Onsite Interview: In-depth technical questions, system design (for senior roles), and behavioral interviews with multiple interviewers.
  3. Bar Raiser Interview: A critical behavioral interview with a Bar Raiser to ensure you meet Amazon’s high hiring standards.

By preparing thoroughly for these rounds and understanding Amazon’s Leadership Principles, you can improve your chances of success.

For the whole Amazon process in one place, read the Amazon interview guide.

TAGS
Behavioral Interview
CONTRIBUTOR
Arslan Ahmad
Arslan Ahmad
ex-FAANG engineering manager and author or Grokking series.

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