This position requires knowledge on a wide range of topics - maybe too wide. In a given day a PC Consultant may be called upon to advise a client on the tax implications of a particular benefit structure, research a penalty notice from a taxing agency, and troubleshoot software and network communication issues on the client's side. The learning curve can be quite difficult and painful for a new hire. This is an extremely high stress and deadline driven position and is not for everyone. During busy periods of the year it is not uncommon to see a coworker in tears because of being completely overwhelmed. Turnover is fairly high due to burnout. Client loads on experienced employees are overwhelming as they are forced to pick up the slack when the department is understaffed. Work life balance is extremely lacking. Overtime is expected when necessary to service clients and complete tasks, but overtime is rarely paid out in the form of extra compensation. Employees are usually forced to "burn" OT by taking extraordinarily long lunches (sometimes 2 hours or more) rather than being allowed to leave early or be paid for the time. This leads to many late nights away from family replaced by useless free time in the middle of the workday. Employee reviews are monthly and are comprised of a summary of meaningless phone statistics. Those placed in supervisor positions are often fresh out of college with no industry experience and are therefore not a resource in day to day activities. They often are clueless when decisions need to be made due to lack of experience.
