How long do Amazon interviews last?

Amazon interviews can vary in length depending on the stage of the process and the role you're applying for. Here's a breakdown of the typical interview durations:

1. Phone Screen

The initial phone screen is usually the first step in the process, and its length can vary based on the role.

Duration:

• 30 to 60 minutes for most roles.
• Technical Phone Screen: You’ll be asked to solve one or two coding problems in real-time, or answer questions related to your field.
• Behavioral Phone Screen: Focuses on discussing your background and assessing how well you align with Amazon's Leadership Principles.

2. Online Assessment

For technical and entry-level roles, Amazon may use an online assessment instead of or in addition to a phone screen.

Duration:

• 60 to 90 minutes: Typically involves coding challenges or multiple-choice questions focused on problem-solving, data structures, and algorithms.

3. Onsite or Virtual Interviews

The onsite or virtual interview stage usually consists of multiple back-to-back interviews, where you're evaluated by different interviewers on various aspects (technical, behavioral, and leadership principles). Due to the pandemic, many onsite interviews are now done virtually.

Duration:

• 4 to 5 hours total: The onsite/virtual interview typically consists of 4 to 5 rounds, each lasting about 45 to 60 minutes. There may be short breaks between the rounds.

Each interview round typically focuses on a different area:

• Coding Rounds: 2-3 rounds of coding challenges for technical roles.
• System Design: 1 round for mid-level or senior roles, focused on designing scalable systems.
• Behavioral Questions: 1-2 rounds where interviewers evaluate how well you align with Amazon’s Leadership Principles.
• Bar Raiser Interview: This round is led by a senior Amazon employee (the Bar Raiser), and it focuses on both your technical skills and cultural fit.

4. Bar Raiser Interview

The Bar Raiser interview is part of the onsite/virtual interview. It is conducted by a senior employee from a different team, ensuring that Amazon hires candidates who meet or exceed the company’s high standards.

Duration:

• 45 to 60 minutes: As part of the onsite interview process, this round focuses on both technical and behavioral aspects.

5. Debrief and Decision

After your interviews, Amazon interviewers meet for a debrief session to evaluate your performance. You typically won’t be involved in this, but the decision is made within a few days to a week.

Total Time for the Interview Process:

• Phone Screen: 30-60 minutes.
• Online Assessment: 60-90 minutes (if applicable).
• Onsite/Virtual Interviews: 4-5 hours (with multiple 45-60 minute rounds).
• Bar Raiser Interview: 45-60 minutes (as part of the onsite process).

Summary:

• Phone Screen: 30-60 minutes.
• Online Assessment: 60-90 minutes (if applicable).
• Onsite/Virtual Interviews: 4-5 hours in total.
• Bar Raiser Interview: 45-60 minutes (part of onsite/virtual).

In total, you can expect the entire interview process to take several hours across multiple stages, depending on your role and level. Preparing for both the technical and behavioral aspects is crucial, especially given the emphasis on Amazon’s Leadership Principles during the interview rounds.