Instacart
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Instacart Employee Reviews

What is it like to work at Instacart?

Review information last updated November 5, 2025.

Rating Distribution

40 ratings

Summary of Instacart Employee Feedback (AI-Generated)

3.4 out of 5

Across all Instacart employee reviews, a recurring theme is the variability of the experience, heavily influenced by location and specific role.
While many employees appreciate the flexibility and opportunity to earn supplemental income, particularly those in roles like Driver/Sales Worker or Retail Salesperson, significant concerns consistently emerge regarding compensation, job security, and performance evaluation.
Notably, a common complaint revolves around inconsistent pay rates and the reliance on customer feedback for performance assessments, which can lead to unpredictable work and potential termination.
Several reviews highlighted a need for proactive communication, careful handling of goods, and diligent management of flexible scheduling to maximize earnings.
Furthermore, a strong emphasis was placed on the importance of seeking alternative income streams due to the precarious nature of the work.
Despite these challenges, there's a consistent acknowledgement of the positive aspects of the Instacart experience, primarily centered around the ability to set one's own hours and the opportunity to interact with customers.
However, the overall sentiment leans toward caution and a recognition of the need for adaptability and resilience.
The reviews consistently point to the need for a worker to be highly self-motivated and prepared for a potentially inconsistent work experience.
Several locations and roles exhibited greater satisfaction than others.
Reviews from Seattle and Port Orchard, WA, for example, indicated a greater appreciation for career development opportunities and a supportive company culture.
Conversely, reviews from locations like Coquille, OR, and Port Orchard, WA, frequently emphasized financial instability and the challenges associated with subjective performance evaluations.
The reviews demonstrate a clear geographic and role-dependent variation in the Instacart experience, suggesting that potential employees should carefully research specific locations and roles before committing to the company.
The emphasis on seeking alternative income streams suggests a degree of risk associated with the Instacart employment model.
Finally, a critical element across all reviews is the need for proactive communication and a strong sense of self-reliance.
Whether it's requesting approval for substitutions, meticulously documenting customer feedback, or actively managing one’s schedule, employees consistently recognized the importance of taking control of their Instacart experience.
This suggests that success within the Instacart model requires not only adaptability and resilience but also a high degree of personal responsibility and initiative.

Disclaimer: This review has been generated by AI based on employee feedback. It may not fully represent the company under the current filters. The AI attempts to analyze patterns in reviews but may not capture all nuances of the workplace experience.

Highlights

Pros

  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Opportunity to Earn Supplemental Income
  • Customer Interaction (in some roles)

Cons

  • Low Compensation Rates
  • Subjective Performance Evaluations
  • Job Insecurity
Oct 6, 2025
1 out of 5
Delivery Driver

Instacart’s worker treatment needs significant improvement.

While I have concerns regarding the company’s support for its employees, particularly concerning the handling of terminations and the perceived lack of security for workers, I believe there is a need for greater investment in employee well-being and a more transparent process for addressing employee concerns. I feel the company’s focus appears primarily on corporate objectives, and I would appreciate increased communication and support for its workforce.
Compensation/Benefits
1/5
Job Culture
0/5
Management
0/5
Job Work/Life Balance
3/5
Job Security/Advancement
0/5
Oct 6, 2025
4 out of 5
Shopper

I value the flexibility of this schedule.

During my employment, I appreciated the flexibility afforded by my college schedule. However, production batches were inconsistent, and I frequently experienced extended wait times for assignments to become available.
Oct 4, 2025
5 out of 5
Shopper/Delivery Driver

This was truly the best job ever!

Strengths: I value the autonomy and flexibility afforded by managing my own schedule. Challenges: A significant source of stress is the inconsistency of order volume, which directly impacts my income. There is limited control over this aspect of my role. The work environment is characterized by frequent periods of downtime, primarily spent waiting for order assignments.
Jul 13, 2025
2 out of 5
Shopper/Delivery Driver

Compensation here falls noticeably below expectations.

Compensation levels require adjustment to ensure fair earnings for workers. Currently, reliance on tips is unsustainable, and reductions in base pay rates, averaging $5-6 per order, are concerning. The current percentage-based payment structure, particularly when substitutions are unavailable, results in underpayment. A more equitable compensation model is needed to align with prevailing wage standards and accurately reflect the value of the work performed.
Jul 11, 2025
5 out of 5
Customer shopper

I’m grateful for the flexibility and support offered.

Strengths: I value the flexibility offered in scheduling. Challenges: I experienced difficulties accessing upper levels due to a recent knee replacement and encountered challenges communicating with team members regarding delivery issues. The work environment involves navigating diverse approaches to achieving similar goals. A typical workday can be characterized by periods of inactivity while awaiting batch completion, which can be followed by sudden, rapid demand.
Jul 9, 2025
5 out of 5
Instacart Shopper

This job perfectly aligns with my goals.

Instacart offers a flexible work environment with the potential for competitive earnings based on individual dedication. This role is well-suited for motivated shoppers seeking autonomy. However, it’s important to note that the company currently does not offer a 401(k) plan, paid time off (PTO), or sick days. Overall, I recommend Instacart.
Compensation/Benefits
5/5
Job Culture
5/5
Management
5/5
Job Work/Life Balance
5/5
Job Security/Advancement
5/5

Pros

Flexible scheduling and the opportunity to earn substantial income.

Cons

Lack of a 401(k) plan, paid time off (PTO), or sick days.

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Instacart Employee Reviews by Location

Location Rating Reviews
Coquille, OR
4
1
Indianapolis, IN
1
1
Spring, TX
3
1
Brooklyn, NY
5
1
Wolcott, NY
5
1
Red Bluff, CA
5
1
Lake Elsinore, CA
5
1
Tullahoma, TN
1
1
Newport, KY
2
1
Los Angeles, CA
5
1
Oklahoma City, OK
3
1
Florence, AL
5
1
Columbus, OH
5
1
Milford, OH
3
1
Philadelphia, PA
1
1

All employee reviews are sourced from Employers.io users, trusted partners, and publicly available information. Opinions expressed in reviews reflect individual experiences and do not represent official statements from Instacart. Contact us to suggest updates to this page.