Don’t work here - Graduate Engineering Geologist Fairhurst Employee Review

1.0
Aug 2, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

You’re thrown in at the deep end, which can lead to quick, practical learning—provided you’re not assigned repetitive tasks. The role gives you exposure to a wide range of external companies and projects, which may help build awareness of the industry landscape. Some colleagues were friendly and approachable, making parts of the day-to-day more bearable.

Cons

My experience at this company was defined by a lack of support, poor management, and an overall disregard for employee wellbeing and development. I was repeatedly assigned the same tasks without opportunity for progression, despite proactively asking for training that was clearly relevant to the role. I was told it wasn’t necessary—a frustrating response that stunted any chance of growth. Management consistently lacked availability and offered little guidance or oversight, unless it was to micromanage timesheets down to the minute. Deadlines were often unrealistic, and time was never respected: arriving early, staying late, and attending meetings over your lunch break were all quietly expected but never compensated. Taking your break afterward or charging the time wasn’t allowed—it was framed as “experience” or “development,” though nothing meaningful came of it. There was a culture of favoritism, where a small number of individuals received opportunities and leniency while others were overlooked. Feedback, when given, was usually after mistakes were made—not as part of any supportive structure. The workload itself was inconsistent, entirely dependent on what jobs came in, leaving little room for skill-building or proper planning. PPE was another major concern. Equipment provided was often poor-fitting and ineffective. On one occasion, I was asked to attend a site with a high risk of asbestos exposure and was told they had no PPE available. The only instruction? “Stand upwind.” That, in itself, sums up the approach to health and safety. There is no on-site parking. Employees are expected to park at a Tesco across the road, which can be inconvenient and isn’t officially arranged. Turnover was extremely high, and unfortunately, I understand why. The experience taught me resilience and self-reliance—but not through any effort of the company. I cannot recommend this employer to anyone seeking fair treatment, structured growth, or even basic respect for their time and safety.

Explore other reviews about Fairhurst

5.0
May 16, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Support from senior members of staff and training

Cons

Low salary no clear routes to promotion

1.0
Oct 22, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

A few genuinely kind and hardworking people doing their best despite the environment. Opportunities to work on varied projects if you can tolerate the culture.

Cons

The culture is toxic across multiple offices. Micromanagement is excessive — even the smallest things, like when you take lunch, are controlled. A deeply ingrained boys’ club mentality, particularly in regional offices. Female staff are consistently undervalued, underpaid, and overlooked for promotions. Complaints about inappropriate or unprofessional behaviour are brushed under the carpet instead of being dealt with properly. Management is completely disconnected from reality — they protect their own rather than listening to staff or improving the environment. High staff turnover for a reason. People don’t leave because of the work; they leave because of how they’re treated.

3
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