Pros
Strong work-life balance: Prior to the Emerson acquisition, NI was highly rated for its laid-back culture and great work-life balance. This was often cited as a significant reason for employee loyalty. Intelligent and kind colleagues: Many reviews from current and former employees highlight the opportunity to work with intellectual, pleasant, and supportive people. Focus on innovation: NI invested a substantial portion of its annual revenue in research and development, which historically created a dynamic environment for engineers and scientists. Good for entry-level talent: In the past, the company was considered a great place to start a career, particularly for recent university graduates, with a welcoming culture and a focus on training.
Cons
Stagnant compensation: For many years, employee reviews have consistently indicated that salaries and benefits were below industry standards, especially when compared to other tech companies in the Austin area. Deteriorating culture and job insecurity: The Emerson acquisition has resulted in a reported deterioration of the original NI culture, with employee reviews mentioning increased micromanagement and frequent layoffs. Limited career growth: Some employees report that career advancement can be slow, particularly for those who have been with the company for several years. There are also concerns about limited opportunities in certain departments and the stagnation of skills. Outdated technology and tools: Some software engineers note that the company relies on outdated proprietary software and decades-old legacy code, which can make it difficult to develop marketable skills applicable elsewhere.