Great first job but no opportunity for growth - Research Assistant Westat Employee Review

3.0
Jan 15, 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good for entry level, decent benefits and flexible time. Don't get alot of holidays but vacation time isn't bad.

Cons

Low pay, no mid level jobs, salary increases only done at review time. I was hired as a Research Assistant and have been working at the company for 5 years. Despite no longer doing entry level work, my title (and pay) is still Research Assistant. They like to add on additional tasks and duties but won't increase your salary to match your tasks. They'll also hire outside people for supervisor or management level positions rather than give opportunities to staff that have been there for years. Frustrating place to work after a few years.

Explore other reviews about Westat

5.0
Jun 30, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great company to work for. Training is always effective and well designed.

Cons

Projects/data collection periods could be longer.

4.0
Jul 9, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Some of the leadership are fantastic! Pay is fair

Cons

Some staff do not respect lower staff; especially when they are Black lower level staff. Reactive instead of proactive when it comes to training up staff as opposed to hiring consultants Benefits and pay suffered after the administration took over Work-life balance frequently is an issue. Intrusive work expectations.

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