Great projects, horribly toxic culture - Transportation Planner WSP Employee Review

2.0
Dec 8, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Since WSP is so big, we often owned the main contract for some really large, high-profile projects. I really enjoyed the pace of staying on a large project for a longer period to see it through from early planning phases to design and construction. WSP also seems to be one of the higher-paying A&E firms in the area, enough so it was a big factor in me choosing to come here over another large firm I had an offer with.

Cons

For WSP corporate: - While I was there, 401(k) match was capped at $2700 (was simply 3% before) and we went to an "unlimited PTO" model where we don't accrue time (and can't cash out when you leave) and are pressured to take less time off to maintain utilization targets - IT systems were outsourced and one small ticket could take over a week with multiple calls/emails to sort out - We were moved to a shared-space office half the size we had previously with cheap furniture, zero separation from other groups/people (it was literally one giant open room), and non-working laptop hubs that meant I had to also lug my power brick to work every day. Specifically in Seattle's Planning group: There was a lot of churn, including managers and a lot of people were vocally derisive of the culture and politics on their way out. Some of the people who stuck around for a long time were incredibly toxic: lots of loyalty tests, backstabbing other coworkers, and lying to clients and team members about the sloppy, half-baked work we'd turn in. For me, it got to a point where I was spending more time navigating politics or trying to stay out of toxic situations than I was doing work.

Explore other reviews about WSP

5.0
May 20, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great and supportive team, peers and healthy work culture, good scope of growth.

Cons

Pay relative to the industry and lower YoY hike in base salary, low PTOs

5.0
May 19, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

With over 30 years in the engineering industry, I can say without hesitation that this is the most employee-attentive firm I have ever had the privilege of working for. What sets this organization apart is its commitment to staying at the forefront of the industry — not just technologically, but in how it values and invests in its people. The collective expertise of thousands of dedicated professionals here doesn't just benefit the company; it makes a meaningful impact on the world, and that sense of purpose has genuinely reignited my passion for engineering. The opportunities for growth are both vast and real. Across the firm's many initiatives, there is something for everyone who comes to work curious, motivated, and eager to contribute. This is not a place where ambition goes unnoticed. After more than three decades in this field, I have found a place I am proud to be part of — and one I hope to remain a part of for many years to come. If you are considering joining this team, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take that step.

Cons

If I have to mention a con, it would be monetary compensation, but who doesn't want more money. I took a paycut to join this firm and the amount of time I am investing, could be worth more than my current salary warrants.

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