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Lawrence Berkeley Lab

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Serious Cuts are Happening Here - Anonymous employee Lawrence Berkeley Lab Employee Review

1.0
Mar 14, 2014
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

If you are a cutting edge scientist or your job is indispensable, you are set. Some departments are wonderful to work for, but others are toxic. Benefits are fine for now, but they are seriously declining due to budget restraints.

Cons

Depending on the department you work for and your job responsibilities, this can be the greatest place to work or the worst. OCFO (Office of the Chief Financial Officer), in particular, has a very bad reputation. Do not apply for a job in this office if you find an opening! They have a habit of firing people before their 6 month probation period so they don't have to pay severance or COBRA and then they will repost the position to squeeze 6 months work out of the next person before they get fired. This practice has been going on for years. Upper management has been bringing in their own people under sketchy business practices, something well-known within the LBL community. The problem is new people have no idea what's going on. People change their lives to get jobs here and management has no problems forcing them out early leaving them with no salary or insurance. Everyone in this company is very nervous about losing their jobs right now.

Explore other reviews about Lawrence Berkeley Lab

5.0
Jun 22, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Very scientific environment and collaborative

Cons

sometimes things move slow than expected

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.

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