Working at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories in Pullman, WA: 8 Employee Job Reviews by Real Employee working in Pullman, WA Area

"The intern program at SEL has proven very valuable. The company is a great source of experience for engineers no matter the location."

"I have worked for several years in various positions in Manufacturing and R&D. My first few years working at SEL went well; however, over time policies and practices changed to the point that it no longer stood out as it used to from other employers. Before considering to work here, review the items listed below. Despite the limited selection for the area, I believe you could find better. Pros: - The company has had stable growth and the industry it serves tends to perform well even during harsh economic periods. - There has never been a company-wide layoff. - Retirement benefits are better than what most companies offer. - Dedication of employees, especially those in Manufacturing, to go above and beyond to meet commitments. Cons: - The pressure of aggressive deadlines with unrealistic expectations. Eighty to one hundred-hour work weeks are expected as these deadlines approach and continue until the project is complete. You can expect several months of mandatory overtime depending on your profession. - Executives themselves are not experienced to deal with the current size of the company. An example is the excessive amount of siloed efforts. Good-willing engineering teams have themselves attempted commonality but have been unsuccessful. - Networking and favoritism. If your manager is not praising your work, then move on. Otherwise, you will be held back regardless of your actual performance. If you interview, be sure to ask questions about work/life balance and what qualifies as an exemplary performance. If you choose to work there you should be expecting to be promoted during the first year or two, and every few years thereafter."

"Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories is a great place to work and allowed me to work with many groups within the company."

"Being an intern at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratory, Inc. for the past sixteen months has been a great experience. The culture here is excellent as is the quality people that work here. It is located in the beautiful Palouse region where you get to experience all four seasons and enjoy the great city of Pullman and nearby cities."

"A fantastic opportunity, if you like Pullman, Washington"

What do you like about working at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories?

"The companies vision, benefits, ethics, facilities, training, and Friday lunches"

Do you have any tips for others interviewing with this company?

"Must love Pullman, WA! It's out in the middle of nowhere, Spokane is the closest city- 80 miles away!"

What don't you like about working at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories?

"They have a very strict smoking policy, if you smoke, quit!"

What suggestions do you have for management?

"Relax on the smoking policy! I don't want to waste my lunch time, just so that I can drive off property to have a smoke."

"great company in the middle of almost somewhere"

What do you like about working at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories?

"Lots of career development potential."

Do you have any tips for others interviewing with this company?

"They're going to grill you. Be smart, or don't go."

What don't you like about working at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories?

"Location is inconvenient for networking. Well established/funded field offices would be nice."

What suggestions do you have for management?

"You're doing a great job, don't change a thing. (But Lotus Notes has to go)"