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General Atomics

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GA-EMS has a culture problem - Anonymous employee General Atomics Employee Review

3.0
Jun 20, 2019
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Job security, pension, benefits, relatively flexible work schedule

Cons

EMS has a problem with their work culture. I feel like confidence and arrogance were held in higher regard than true competence. I'm aware that it varies by department, so it's truly a hit or miss how your experience will be at this company. There are true underdogs that don't get the recognition they deserve. But they get overshadowed by those who have little experience (hard and soft skills), and know how to kiss butt in front of senior management. Plus, it is VERY heavily siloed. Don't expect to cross collaborate without getting reprimanded.

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General Atomics Response
6y
Thanks for the review! We’re pleased to know that you benefited from the flexible scheduling, job security and pension that we were able to offer during your time with us. Sounds like it wasn’t an ideal fit, but we’re hearing your suggestions regarding cultural diversity and we’re working hard to implement as we grow. Thanks again!

Explore other reviews about General Atomics

5.0
Jun 8, 2026
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CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Very good work life balance

Cons

9 hour shifts 4 days a week

3.0
Jun 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Mostly good people and skilled engineers that are easy to work with and great to learn from across all groups/locations. There is opportunity to pursue technical areas of interest and to stand out by leading improvement efforts. The company is flexible and often facilitates changes according to interest. Sense of job security generally feels good and stable, the greater GA really backs the Space division. The greater company works on some really interesting and cool things, beyond just defense. Pay is pretty good. Experience with most middle management (of engineers) has been positive, they typically advocate and support their employees.

Cons

Unsure of division leadership and strategic direction. Overall impression is that engineers' perspectives are not adequately weighted in both proposals and certain decisions for active missions. Processes burden performance, though there is intention for constant improvement. Ignoring engineering concerns (i.e. with schedule) + process burdens often result in delays and increased pressure, and therefore a less than ideal working environment at times. Overtime pay is not guaranteed but can be approved. Working with teams in different locations can lead to tension and "silo-ing" (though not always). Space division is becoming mostly defense focused (an industry trend), but would be nice to continue work in the civil earth and space science arena. They also demo'd a nice cafeteria/gathering space for more work/equipment space.

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