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Lawrence Berkeley Lab

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Engineers Beware - Electronics Engineer Lawrence Berkeley Lab Employee Review

1.0
Feb 11, 2021
Recommend
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Pros

The seminars can be interesting to attend.

Cons

Campus is way overcrowded to the point the beautiful campus is hardly tolerable. Parking is dangerously packed and difficult. You can easily get in an accident so avoid driving on-site and parking. Cubicles are abysmally small - coffin sized. I’ve never seen desk spaces this small anywhere. Since it’s cheaper to hire non degreed “engineering associates”, engineers have zero job security here. High school diploma holders get most jobs and can keep them. Meanwhile, if you have a degree, you are temporary or contract and they likely won’t keep you. Pay is stagnant. Culture is toxic. Engineering is operated like a cheap, contracting company, hence using non-engineers for engineering work. It’s sad what’s happened to this institution, but American research has long been on the decline so it’s no surprise. Go into industry - this place will stall your career and skillset. Don’t waste time you could be spending growing your knowledge and skills.

Explore other reviews about Lawrence Berkeley Lab

5.0
Jun 21, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Opportunity to work on impactful scientific and engineering projects that support research and innovation. Exposure to multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, scientists, technicians, and project managers. Strong focus on safety, quality, and technical excellence. Good work-life balance and professional development opportunities. Ability to contribute to long-term projects with significant national and scientific importance.

Cons

Large organizations can have multiple layers of review and approval, which may slow decision-making. Processes and documentation requirements can be extensive, especially for safety and compliance purposes. Project priorities can shift based on funding and organizational needs, requiring flexibility and adaptability.

3.0
May 27, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Beautiful location, you oversee the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge and SF. Research environment, great bridge for academics to transition to a more applied research. Benefits quite good

Cons

Low wages, especially in the scientific staff. Basically no career progression. Offices are a mixed bags (some departments have brand new buildings, others have very old buildings). Do not rely on their immigration services to get anything beyond temporary work visas.

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