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Ginkgo BioWorks

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Pass - Anonymous employee Ginkgo BioWorks Employee Review

2.0
Feb 26, 2025
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good benefits (ex. unlimited PTO) and work life balance / flexibility. The people are generally nice

Cons

Even after the restructuring, Ginkgo needs more technical experts honing their business strategy, and to continue focusing their expertise and priorities rather than trying to build a maximally generalizable platform because in reality, many aspects of any given project need a lot of upfront bespoke method development and sometimes it feels like fitting a square peg into a round hole in order to deliver what’s been promised (which is often quite ambitious). Furthermore, the emphasis on creating a zany culture has not been codeveloped with a standard of rigor and work ethic, leading to a minority of people picking up the slack for other (often more senior) people and a sometimes rather unprofessional / lackadaisical work culture, even after multiple rounds of layoffs. This doesn’t leave much room for professional growth or opportunity and contributes to an increasing loss of sense of ownership, responsibility, and motivation. Compensation is also lower compared to similar roles in the industry

Explore other reviews about Ginkgo BioWorks

5.0
Jun 2, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

a hands-off management style and a flexible work environment that promotes autonomy and trust

Cons

Occasional overtime may be required, but that is common in most workplaces

2.0
Jun 27, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Exciting, diverse projects. Excellent coworkers.

Cons

The company has been downsizing since I was hired, and everyone is perpetually terrified of losing their jobs.

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