Great engineering, management spotty - Consultant F5 Employee Review

2.0
Oct 15, 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Very smart people have been drawn to F5, and for the most part, have stayed. Very best people have jumped ship, and that sort of thing will turn a company's fortunes, no matter how good they USED to be.

Cons

Management seems to have enormous latitude (limited HR oversight) in deciding how to treat employees. If a manager decides he or she doesn't like you, you're toast, and no one can, or perhaps will, intervene on your behalf. Sounds simple, right - just stay on your mgr's good side. Not so fast. It can be anything, even a rumor or unverified innuendo about you that tips the scale toward getting on a "list". I got on such a list because of something others have stated - limited growth opportunity. If you ask for a promotion or even movement within F5, that can (it was for me) enough to turn you into a pariah. And no one will help. I'm leaving after five years because I can't think of anything else to do. And whatever happened to the previously good work/life balance?

Explore other reviews about F5

5.0
Jan 5, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

they are serious about creating a great work culture.

Cons

none that I can think of

3.0
Jun 16, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Decent Views Decent Benefits Stock Options and 401k matching ORCA and pandaride Thirsty Thursday

Cons

Lower than standard industry pay Corporate culture weeds out those who don't toe the line Weak management with little to no mentorship High turnover, downsizing regularly No direction or accountability within or across teams No advancement opportunity / only senior positions ever available

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