Echoes of the glory days. - Software Engineer Autodesk Employee Review

4.0
Feb 22, 2009
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Autodesk Media & Entertainment (formely Discreet Logic) is a relaxed work environment. The building itself is a renovated boat factory, giving it a very industrial-chic design. Fluo-colored chairs decorate the lobby, where you also find several high definition TVs on rolling pods. You will find the latest game consoles and games to relax during lunch hours or the always popular weekly cocktail on Friday afternoon. Beer, wines, chips and theatre-style popcorn are all available free of charge to wrap up the week. Major software releases are also celebrated with parties. You will find very passionate people at Autodesk. Proud of their work and the reputation of their product suite.

Cons

Autodesk has recently become this software monster, swallowing smaller companies at an alarming rate. To the point that it now faces competition within its own product line (Maya vs 3D Studio Max). The acquisition of Discreet Logic is still not fully popular among the Montreal employees. Some relinquish the "glory days". This can leave newcomers wondering if they missed the boat. Recent compressions worldwide have also affected the morals in the company. Autodesk has a tradition of hiring lots of interns every single term, but the opportunities for employment beyond internships are slim at best. Furthermore, if an opportunity arises, there are string attached like a limited duration and few benefits.

Explore other reviews about Autodesk

5.0
Jun 1, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Good WLB Low Turnover Rates Interesting Projects/Work Full Benefits + 401k

Cons

Medium Pay, Not Amazing Stock Packages

5.0
May 27, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Autodesk has, hands down, one of the warmest and most supportive corporate cultures I’ve ever experienced. From day one, people were welcoming, respectful, kind, and genuinely available to help. Even as a contract worker, I never felt like an outsider. I felt included, trusted, and treated like part of the team. The marketing team was an incredible group: collaborative, smart, generous with their time, and always willing to answer questions. Autodesk also has a true teaching culture. You never feel silly for asking questions, and there is a clear willingness across teams to help people learn, improve, and succeed. Operationally, the company was also impressively efficient. The technology, meeting tools, scheduling systems, and general workflows made it easy to connect with people, set appointments, collaborate, and keep work moving without unnecessary friction. Overall, Autodesk set the bar for what a healthy corporate culture can feel like: organized, human, respectful, inclusive, and genuinely collaborative. Pros: Warm culture, helpful people, strong tools and technology, respectful teams, inclusive environment, great marketing organization.

Cons

As a contractor, I only wish the experience had been longer.

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