Stay billable employee no. 12148! - Senior Project Engineer Arcadis Employee Review

1.0
Jan 27, 2012
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Flexible hours. The worker bees don't need to be in the hive 8-5, but they do need to be 98% billable. It's a massive, global company so a future interviewer might recognize the name, which could be good or bad.

Cons

Engineers are a number on a spreadsheet; a percentage of quarterly profits in a big "trickle down", pyramidal money making experiment. There is a pervasive anxiety, fear and distrust in the air, which may have something to do with unrealistic profit margins and insane billable hour ratios. Don't be fooled by the marketing. "Environmental" is an oxymoron. You are more likely to be working on a hydrofracking project than a windmill or solar plant. Since exceeding last quarters profit margins are driven by Wall Street, engineering project design quality tends to suffer, which for engineers is very dissatisfying. Lump sum projects are popular. Typical design project margins are anywhere from 5-15% at most reputable engineering firms, but you are expected to hit the 25-30% mark.

Explore other reviews about Arcadis

5.0
Jun 18, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The people and the work we do.

Cons

None really. Could use better pay consistencies and recognition of those who do well and are rewarded as such.

avatar
Arcadis Response
5d
We appreciate you sharing your experience of the amazing people and values as well as your thoughts on rewards and recognition structure for high performers. At Arcadis, we are committed to creating an environment where people can thrive, and feedback like yours helps us refine our approach so we can better support recognition, growth, and a rewarding employee experience for all team members. Thank you for sharing your experience.
4.0
Jun 21, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Helpful team and lots learned

Cons

Hot work days and lots of administrative work

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Arcadis Response
18h
We appreciate you sharing your experience as an intern, including your comments about a supportive team, learning opportunities, and recognize your thoughts about high volume days and admin work. It helps us ensure we’re evolving in ways that support collaboration and growth for everyone. We’re pleased to hear that your internship included a supportive team and valuable learning opportunities, while also recognizing your feedback on day-to-day working conditions and administrative tasks. Your perspective helps us reflect and continue strengthening our workplace. Thank you for sharing your experience.
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