Pros
Very good pay for trades when you look at other mills, the work we actually have to do, the state of the economy and availability of finding another job. If I need help I can get it. If I need tools/equipment I usually have it available. The day to day work of trades in my dept. is predictable so work stress is manageable. Benefits package has covered everything I've needed it for. OT is readily available for trades.
Cons
Mid level and upper management are honest to god complete morons when it comes to running the day to day operations. Problems in equipment, processes, people and other resources are known, addressed by the hourly staff but 99% ignored by management. Tonnage is king and as long as they "make the daily numbers" no one in the higher up ranks care. Severstal management LOVES to spout off World Class and Safety First. Those things only apply AFTER production is made, managment has no clue what World Class means and their daily actions prove it. I have half a career under my belt, make more money with each year that passes and I honestly like my job, I'm not jaded about anything. My comments on management are based on MANY years of watching boss after boss, at every level, make the EXACT SAME mistakes as those before them. What's even sadder is that the previous mistakes are right there in front of them, on paper, in discussions or it's something physical and tangible that shows no doubt "it doesn't work", but they make the mistakes again and again.