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Caltech (California)

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An excellent place to do scientific research among the best and brightest in the world. - Graduate Student Caltech (California) Employee Review

4.0
Sep 27, 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

All of my coworkers are top-notch. Team-based projects move quickly and there's never "that one person" who doesn't contribute. The research opportunities are excellent too. For being such a small school, there's plenty of funding and a wide variety of cutting edge applied and fundamental research projects ongoing.

Cons

Work-life balance can be extremely difficult at times. Extended hours are expected, as is a "whatever it takes" attitude. Paternity leave is nominally two weeks without pay, though there are ongoing efforts to change that. Time off is generous for people young in their careers if you can take it - two weeks plus institute holidays, which accounts for approximately 20 days (vacation + holidays) per year. The challenge is finding time that works with the funding cycle and research schedule to take that time off.

Explore other reviews about Caltech (California)

5.0
Jul 14, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great environment, lots of interesting talks going on every day

Cons

Lack of dining options, society too small

5.0
Jun 30, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I really like the people I work with. Managers promote psychological safety and follow through with their commitments . My direct managers are interested in my growth and professional development. There are a lot of affinity groups to connect with. Overall a great community to be a part of. Caltech has good benefits and even mental health counseling available for staff.

Cons

Because the campus is lightly administered/decentralized, policies can vary a lot by department, which can make things really confusing for the initial period. However, if you’re open to talking to others and making connections, it can go a long way in helping you figure out how things work on campus. Another negative is that departmental culture can vary. Working as an admin in one department may be much more difficult than in another department.

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