Great place to gain experience, then leave. - Anonymous employee Shell Employee Review

1.0
Jan 6, 2013
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The pros of working for Shell Oil US are pension, health benefits, and bonuses. These are the only reasons I'm still with them.

Cons

The cons grossly outweigh the pros, so if you are starting your career and need experience, work for Shell a few years then leave. The cons include, but are not limited to: lack of accountability, extreme bias for Dutch and minorities for promotions regardless of experience and performance, and performance ratings based on bell curve. I have high evaluations on my performance; however, it is a fight for it. Rating is based on a curve, so no matter how hard you work, only three percent of your group (globally) can be at the top (and this effects your bonus). In other words, if there are people who are favored in your global group, they will most likely receive the highest ratings. Promotions and moving overseas for Americans is very limited. The environment is cut-throat with people trying to get credit for ideas; however, if something goes wrong, people are quick to point fingers and dodge responsibility. The emerging culture of Shell is to meet and meet some more and have more meeting where people like to theorize and contemplate but not do. If you are a doer and don't tell management just what they want to hear (i.e., schmooze), don't work for Shell US.

Explore other reviews about Shell

5.0
May 8, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Shell is a wonderful company to work for. They truly support your continued development and many employees have been here for 20+ years. The work culture is one that provides a feeling of true psychological safety.

Cons

There are lots of meetings.

4.0
Jun 3, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Early career engineers are given significant ownership and exposure to complex operational challenges. Strong focus on safety, technical development, and collaboration across disciplines. Opportunities to work on high-impact projects, interact with senior leadership, and contribute to decisions affecting major assets and infrastructure.

Cons

Workloads can be demanding, and priorities can shift quickly based on operational needs. Decision-making processes can be slow due to organizational complexity, and geographic mobility may be necessary for certain career opportunities.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All