Historically strong culture, but experiences vary widely by team - Software Engineer CarMax Employee Review

2.0
Mar 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Work-life balance and opportunities for professional development are generally strong when supported by effective leadership, though experiences can vary across teams and departments. Many areas of the organization recognize and reward high-performing employees with opportunities for advancement. Being mindful of team and leadership dynamics can help ensure a positive experience, and career growth is largely influenced by an individual’s skills, performance, and initiative. Most members of leadership genuinely care about their reports as people, not just a number, though this is another experience that may vary between teams and departments.

Cons

Experiences can vary significantly depending on the team and leadership. Some teams may have more hands-on management styles, high workloads, or less positive team dynamics. Opportunities for advancement can also vary by department, and some employees may find limited mobility despite strong performance. Compensation in certain roles may be below broader market trends. This was historically offset by the company’s reputation for stability, though layoffs have occurred more recently, making this a greater concern. Benefits are generally comparable to other companies, though health insurance options feel like they fall behind offerings at other companies. The current five-day in-office requirement for employees has been a point of concern for many employees and appears to be contributing to increased attrition. Current company instability and market share would make me think twice about joining the company as a new employee today. Diversity in representation is lacking, especially in upper levels of the org.

Explore other reviews about CarMax

5.0
May 3, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

You are your own boss

Cons

Slow days can be demotivating.

4.0
Jun 13, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The perks of working at CarMax are quite extensive. Associates are offered an aggressive 401k program, Stock Purchasing Plan, in store discounts on sales and service, access to the CarMax Wholesale system, excellent healthcare, plenty of PTO, and at my location we are given as much OT as we want. My coworkers are generally good people, that I enjoy being able to work along side day in and day out. Management is very understanding in regards to calling out sick family emergencies, and schedule requests.

Cons

Despite doing the work of 5 people, and very politely asking for a raise management will not give me more than my 3% annual raise which is the single biggest let down. The bonus change of 2025 being labeled as "exciting" was straight corporate gaslighting unlike anything I've ever seen. Since the start of 2026, as of this review being written we have lost 7 associates largely due to pay, and I am soon to join those associates. Management from the store level up to corporate needs to understand that to retain their top performers they need to be compensated like a top performer. Some members of management are cliquey and moody which is very frustrating to deal with. Quality of Management varies wildly from store to store as well

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