Forget everything you've heard! This is NOT the same company... - Lead Associate (Project Manager) Booz Allen Hamilton Employee Review

2.0
Aug 9, 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Opportunities for advancement and earning resume bullets; a little competence goes a long way; thick business cards.

Cons

1-2% annual raises and 2% raises for promotions; company frequently restructures benefits to pass costs to employees; high premium, high deductible health plans; company 401k contributions paid annually rather than per pay period; focus on enriching shareholders over taking care of the staff; corporate values are only words; double-think needed for C-suite communications: "everything is awesome" but your situation declines; non-competitive salaries; salaries based entirely on billable contract rather than level/responsibilities. I was promoted twice within 4 years in terms of level (Senior Consultant to Associate to Lead Associate) and twice in terms of position (team leader to deputy PM to PM) and was never able to achieve a salary commensurate with my work and responsibilities. As a PM I was paid less than the people answering the phones for the client on the contract I managed. I brought in hundreds of thousands of dollars over my target profit but was told there was no money for a raise. No accountability for senior leaders who don't meet standards of decently so long as they bring in the money.

Explore other reviews about Booz Allen Hamilton

5.0
Apr 9, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

They treat their people well

Cons

Pay isn't the highest at Booz

2.0
Jul 14, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

**Communications Specialist (Former Employee) – Booz Allen Hamilton** Overall, Booz Allen was a solid place to work, particularly if you're interested in supporting meaningful government missions. I worked as a Communications Specialist supporting federal clients, and the work was intellectually engaging. The role offered opportunities to develop executive communications, strategic messaging, and communications products on complex policy and technology issues. The company has talented people and a collaborative culture. I found my colleagues to be knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely committed to delivering high-quality work for clients. There are also opportunities to build skills across communications, proposal support, change management, and stakeholder engagement if you're proactive. Like many consulting firms, however, your experience depends heavily on your client and contract. Workload and expectations can vary significantly from one engagement to another, and priorities can shift quickly based on client needs. Success requires adaptability, strong writing skills, and the ability to manage multiple competing deadlines. **Pros** * Smart, collaborative colleagues * Interesting and mission-driven client work * Opportunities to build a diverse communications portfolio * Strong reputation in the federal consulting space * Flexible career paths depending on contracts **Cons** * Experience varies considerably by client and manager * Fast-paced environment with shifting priorities * Advancement can depend on finding the right opportunities and contracts * Work-life balance fluctuates based on client demands **Advice to Management** Continue investing in career development for communications professionals and provide greater transparency around internal mobility and long-term career progression across contracts.

Cons

Career growth can be inconsistent because it's often tied to contract opportunities rather than individual performance. Your experience depends heavily on the client, project, and direct manager, so there isn't a consistent employee experience across the company. Internal processes and approvals can be bureaucratic, making even simple decisions take longer than necessary.

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