There is a lack of clear direction and support within the management team. The manager lacks technical knowledge in key processes such as anodizing, sandblasting, and the use of chemicals, which can lead to challenges when issues arise. Unfortunately, this results in limited guidance to resolve problems, and employees may feel unsupported in addressing technical concerns.
Employees may be exposed to hazardous chemicals such as caustic soda and sulfuric acid. Unfortunately, safety measures such as the use of face masks and protective eyewear are not consistently enforced. While safety equipment is provided, it is not always utilized. This is partly due to higher management’s reluctance to invest in necessary safety improvements, which prevents the safety manager from fully implementing required protocols.
Career advancement opportunities are limited unless you have established connections with higher-level management. Without these connections, employees may feel undervalued and overworked. The staffing levels in critical areas such as anodizing, sandblasting, and polishing are minimal, often requiring 2-3 people to handle multiple responsibilities. This can lead to an overwhelming workload, as employees are expected to manage large quantities of parts across multiple departments. Meanwhile, there is a noticeable imbalance in workload distribution, as some departments may experience less oversight and involvement from management, affecting overall team morale.
Management often justifies low wages by stating that employees are classified as general laborers rather than technicians to avoid higher pay rates. While they may highlight record profits, raises are typically minimal, such as a $0.65 increase. Additionally, during events like hurricanes, employees are expected to use their PTO to cover any missed workdays, and if PTO is unavailable, they may not receive compensation.
For those considering a managerial position, I would strongly suggest exploring other opportunities. In the past few months, at least four managers have either resigned or been terminated after addressing their concerns to upper management, only to face retaliation. While management claims to maintain a professional environment, it is clear that a tight-knit group dynamic exists, which can impact decision-making and workplace culture.