Ex-Amazon Engineer Quits Over Stress From 5-Day Office Mandate

A former Amazon engineer, Daniel, revealed how the company’s new return-to-office (RTO) policy triggered overwhelming anxiety, pushing him to quit his job. The mandate, issued by CEO Andy Jassy, required employees to work from the office five days a week, a significant change from the previous three-day RTO.

Anxiety Over Returning to Office

Daniel, who joined Amazon during the Covid-19 pandemic, shared that he initially believed he was hired as a remote worker. When the RTO announcement was made, he discovered he was assigned to an office far from his team. This realization, coupled with Amazon’s in-office push, caused him considerable stress and anxiety.

Impact of RTO Policy on Employees

Many Amazon employees, especially those hired during the remote work period, faced similar challenges. While some chose to relocate, others, like Daniel, sought fully remote opportunities. Daniel highlighted how Amazon’s strict office policy has given other companies an advantage in attracting talent by offering remote work as a benefit.

Amazon’s Policy Change and Employee Reactions

Amazon’s shift to a five-day in-office requirement contrasts sharply with its earlier flexibility, leading to a wave of resignations. Daniel’s story reflects the broader sentiment among workers who are unwilling to return to the office and are seeking jobs with remote options instead.