Wish they practiced what they preach... - Anonymous employee Jacobs Employee Review

1.0
Mar 5, 2015
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Once you've established your credibility, they will allow some flexibility in your work schedule. 1/2 day Fridays are nice. The new open floor plan office does a nice job of equalizing all positions rather than management being sequestered behind closed doors. Managers are now more aware of what is happening on the floor because they are in the middle of it. Even though they might not do anything about issues, they can't say they don't know what's going on.

Cons

The lack of accountability is disheartening. I was personally attacked verbally on more than one occasion by a manager. The last time, it was witnessed by another employee who filed a complaint with HR. Because of who hired this person, the incident was swept under the carpet, and I was basically removed from the situation. The same person acted the same way against another employee, and that employee quit over the treatment. After giving notice, this employee notified the company's integrity hotline, local HR and regional HR. To date (many months later), no action has been taken. Two other employees have quit as well over treatment by this manager. It goes against the whole "People are our greatest asset" mantra that is repeated to us over and over. Also, at the end of almost every quarter, management encourages everyone to take time off to help the overhead numbers. If you work at Jacobs, you better hoard your PTO because only getting 3 weeks a year and being STRONGLY encouraged to take off at the end of every quarter will leave you with nothing for your own personal use. Then, after trying to be a team player and take the time off, you are rewarded with minuscule raises. Jacobs also gives very few holidays, no personal days, and the least amount of PTO of any company that I've ever worked for. You get an extra week upon completing year 5, then another after completing year 15. After that, no more increases!! If you prove yourself competent, they will work you to exhaustion while your coworkers spends their days playing on the internet, coming in late/leaving early, visiting, and taking long lunch hours Absolutely no accountability or repercussions.

Explore other reviews about Jacobs

5.0
Apr 3, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Strong learning environment for entry-level engineers Great exposure to large-scale transportation and infrastructure projects with experienced mentors and structured onboarding. Reputable global firm Jacobs’ strong brand name adds credibility to your résumé and opens doors for future opportunities in both public and private sectors. Good career growth and mobility Clear pathways to move into roles like Project Engineer, Assistant Resident Engineer, or Construction Management with internal postings encouraged. Supportive team culture (project-dependent) Most teams are collaborative, and senior staff are willing to guide junior engineers, especially in inspection and CM roles. Competitive benefits and job stability Solid health benefits, 401(k), PTO, and steadier work compared to smaller consulting firms—especially on long-term public agency contracts.

Cons

Growth pace depends on manager and project Advancement and role expansion can vary widely based on leadership and available opportunities.

1
5.0
Jun 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great people and culture, internal mobility if you’re networked

Cons

Lots of internal process/procedure but to be expected at a large firm

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