Don't stay longer than 2 years if you are entry or mid level - Research Assistant Westat Employee Review

3.0
Dec 16, 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Very difficult to get fired here if you perform your job at the minimum requirement. Job security is nice and the vacation time is very flexible. Overall great people to work with and if you need experience it's a nice place to start out. Many people leave and come back. Largely because I think they know the only way to get paid more us to show another company was willing to pay.

Cons

The pay for entry to mid level professionals is not competitive. You will be significantly underpaid and undervalued. I performed mid level and project manager level tasks but was still classified as entry level after 5 years with the company. There is zero room for growth. I've known people hired as an entry level research assistant and after 8 years were still classified technically as entry level. If you need research experience get in and get out after 2 years. Also, there was a lack of diversity among management staff. The management staff is excellent overall but all white faces. The company is still trapped in 1989. Mostly older white men in senior positions, a few women and virtually no minorities.

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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