Pros
Technical challenges -- for EE in particular there are opportunities in every possible area (Hard core Analog, Sensors, DSP, RF, Power, Telecommunications, etc.) And SLB is very supportive of continuing education opportunities including a thriving Metier community. Work/Life balance (flex hours, family leave, etc.) & other benefits. The Maternity leave policy is a HUGE benefit & makes this company a stand-out. This is one of the biggest reasons employees put up with the sub-par compensation. Low employee turnover in R&D. Even though the oil industry has very dramatic swings, the workforce in the tech centers stays relatively stable. International presence & diverse work force.
Cons
Compensation -- less than our service competitors & way less than the actual oil companies. Plus yearly raises are usually stingy. Too often it is the case that new hires are making more than current employees because the raises do not keep pace with the market trends. Pressure -- high pressure environment. Not much day to day support. Basically a sink-or-swim environment & individuals have to pull their own weight & are given a great deal of technical responsibility right out of the gate. Career advancement very dependent on field experience & willingness to relocate. Bias in FAVOR of French employees. This is probably the most frustrating thing -- for all the politics around affirmative action, gender diversity, & other such initiatives there is a blatant advantage to being French in this company.