Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory FAQ

Pros

interesting work, great benefits, work from home, flexible schedule, decent pto.

Cons

raises aren't great. cost of living in the area is high. technical abilities are meaningless beyond a basic level of competence.

Pros

Retirement benefit package is above average, salary is quite good for the job TITLE. Overtime and holiday pay is great.

Cons

The job description is a gross understatement of the work actually required. For the work you actually do and the expectations the hourly pay should be $3-$5 an hour more(especially considering they pay MSP 2-3 times what they pay APL Security just to sleep in their cars or watch movies). You will likely walk 7000 steps every night doing rounds if you are not manning a desk in a building. The OT is extremely inconsistent in complete contrast to what is said during the interview process, the revolving door of staffing leads to shift shortages and drafts so you will do 16 hours straight. The pay is quite good for the job, but not the reality of work.

Advice to Management

Hire individuals who are not lazy and complacent(on(especially Supervisors), that also seek to improve efficiency. Management is stuck in "we have always done it this way" and refuse to accept new thoughts or ideas that would increase efficiency.

Pros

retirement innovative environment career coaching approach to line management flexible hours

Cons

not the best maternity/paternity leave policy remote work is a challenge

Pros

Benefits are great and pension

Cons

Some politics like everywhere and no flexibility in some groups

Advice to Management

Get more experience managers as anyone can be a manager and that causes people to change groups or jobs

Pros

* Work life balance * Amazing and accepting work culture * Flexible life and great benefits * Challenging work for those seeking it * Very progressive management (relative to industry), that makes you genuinely feel like they care about you * Transparent growth system with clear requirements depending on level * Organized matching with supervisors to vector you into the right places

Cons

* Can have responsibilities shifted (being voluntold to do something) based on priority * Working on high priority tasks eats away at work life balance heavily, something to bear in mind * Work can fluctuate a bit too frequently depending on the department