Pros
You gain experience working directly with data and writing insights. This is valuable practice and an underrated transferable skill. I genuinely became a better analyst in how I solve problems, write surveys, and create narratives based on the data within a year of working here. The immediate research team is extremely intelligent and respectful of work boundaries. I have never experienced any issues with PTO requests or admitting exhaustion and burnout. Working from home is a huge perk, but can be a double-edged sword if you don't set boundaries early and often.
Cons
There are not many opportunities to learn transferable skills. Many of the programs they use are bespoke, and they are slow to transition you onto more advanced projects. You are only up for promotions and raises once a year. If you manage to achieve a certain level of quality, you will not see any updates or changes to your compensation or role until the next round. Shorter timelines, more complex work. In my time here, project deadlines have become shorter while the work is becoming more custom. As an analyst, there is only so much implementing AI can do to meet the quality standards needed within the working day. I worked extended hours for several weeks during the most recent high-volume season. They hire internally, but the career path typically leads away from research and toward management. For some of the more advanced research-oriented roles, you should not expect to receive formal training on the job. Instead, you will have to leave and get an advanced degree.
