Amazon software engineers are facing increased pressure to work harder and faster due to the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). While the company claims that AI is meant to augment their expertise, many engineers say it’s transforming their work into an assembly line job, where they’re expected to produce more code with less control over tools.
The shift has sparked growing concerns about the impact on careers and the quality of work. Engineers are being pushed to meet higher output targets, often in a matter of days, rather than weeks, as previously done. Code reviews are becoming shorter, and developers are expected to let AI suggest entire programs, not just lines of code.
Industry experts say that this trend is reminiscent of Amazon’s warehouse automation wave, which saw workers shift from walking miles each day to standing in place while robots deliver inventory. The parallels are personal for coders, who feel like they’re going through the same process.
While Amazon has defended its approach, saying it’s a tool for productivity and cost avoidance, employees are worried about losing vital skills and having fewer opportunities to prove themselves for promotions. A group called Amazon Employees for Climate Justice is sounding out worker concerns, including the impact of AI on careers and work quality.
The company claims that promotion paths remain clear and performance-based, but many engineers say they’re feeling pressure to adapt to a new reality where AI is driving the workload.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/05/26/business/amazon-coders-say-theyve-had-to-work-harder-faster-by-using-ai