Pros
It was a job post covid after unemployment ran out.
Cons
Offered position that I really needed. Low pay. Owner wanted to pay less but I wouldnt accept lower and had skills, portfolio, and experience. After a few weeks numerous red flags appeared. Company was struggling with sales and work. Then told hours I should expect (30-32 a week) Old equipment and ineffecient systems. High turnover of other employees, Owner would never accept personal blame. I was told It was my responsibility to make art department profitable as my presence and wages 'put them in a hole' Over time more duties ( Embroidery, Production Schedule) but never offered full time hours like I should have been aware. VERY old equipment. Output separations from HP film printer. Blamed frequently for their mismanagement. High turnover of other employees and equipment always had issues. Unpleasant interactions with owner and HR employee. Caught Covid in early 2021 from Embroidery operator. No one else wore masks. Owner showed little care. Very sick for two weeks. My girlfriend got it from me before I showed symptoms. Her elderly father got it and died within a week. Got better but then later developed blood clots in lungs and out for another week. Owner never offered and I was made aware I would not receive payment for time out sick. More and more difficult to keep up with expenses. Shortly after given opportunity for a position in another industry and gave notice. Tried for 2 months but was not for me. A few weeks later the owner contacted me and said I was really needed and would I come back. I agreed and without my knowledge my employee status was changed to "temporary" and no federal tax withheld. Another half of year and another opportunity was offered at another, more successful, modern shop for higher wage. I gave my notice again and left. The next year when filing my taxes received W2 with 0 in Fed box. Instead of refund owed 3,000 in taxes. Owner has an abrasive, contrary, unapologetic attitude and frankly business was always on life support. Artist position before me had 5-6 changes in space of few years. Now have position at Great company with many benefits. For an important, high skills required position would pay as low as $15/ hr if they can.