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Applied Research Associates

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A good place to start - Software Engineer Applied Research Associates Employee Review

2.0
Jul 30, 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Opportunity to learn all the things you didn't learn about in college. Its a good place to get experience and work in different languages, C++, C#, xaml, and a little SQLite. Most everyone is friendly and easy to work with.

Cons

The on boarding process is they put you in a cubical and tell you to read a book, no one talks to you or shows you anything. No one properly trains you on or explains the work flows or processes that are utilized. You are basically left to stumble around until you figure everything out on your own. This might not seem bad but in my opinion is a huge waste of time and energy and a lack of either ability or self consciousnesses . I had nothing to do for almost 3 months even though I continually asked for work. There is one person that is basically the architect and knows everything but he doesn't want to share any information or explain anything. He also gives very little direction or information about a project when it is assigned, is hard to ask a question. Several times when I have asked him a question he comes sits down and deletes half of what I have done and just starts doing what he thinks should be done with no explanation. He is unable to ask follow on questions to ascertain what a problem is or what you meant by something so if you ask a question it must be stated precisely so as to be understood directly. He just wants to code, but should be more of a leader but is either incapable or unwilling to. The Team lead doesn't know what is going on and just handles reports and other administrative functions. All the equipment and furniture is second hand and obsolete, the desk top is barely capable of running visual studio. The technology is a mix of programs that are not really designed to work together and many functions are carried out redundantly. No one cares to fix the problems apparent with the structure of the company or in the work flow and processes or the break downs that have occurred. there is basically one person that creates assigns and does code reviews, but is so busy with his own work that you are left sitting around with nothing to do but wait for him.

Explore other reviews about Applied Research Associates

5.0
Dec 4, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Work life balance Flexibility Benefits

Cons

Pay could be better but for starting salary is good enough

1
3.0
Jul 12, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Extremely flexible schedule, Some cool staff.

Cons

Pay is trash for admin personal It's like some people carry rank and it's annoying

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