Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Employee Reviews about "red tape"

Pros

I worked for a federal contracting company before, but LLNL takes the aspects I loved about that job (e.g. mission-focused, flexible work schedule, and innovative science) and combines them with all the job features I always wanted (e.g. more remote-flexible opportunities, better compensation/benefits, bosses that actually care about me as a person and not just a means to an output). LLNL invests in their employees and really cares in their development within the org.

Cons

There's sometimes a bit too much red tape around some things, but I went in expecting that.

Pros

Very gratifying place to work because you are supporting national security missions and you feel like you are serving your country. The lab does a great job offering work life balance, flexibility and employee resources that go above and beyond to take care of its employees.

Cons

Sometimes political red tape can make it challenging to get things done quickly. Also, some of the buildings are a bit outdated.

Pros

The work is compelling, worthwhile, and largely makes a positive impact in the world. The compensation and work-life balance is decent. The proximity and exposure to some of the brightest and high-performing scientists and engineers is a huge plus. There is no lack of opportunity at the lab and the career paths are encouraged. The lab will also help pay for most schooling and provides ample opportunities for growth.

Cons

The vast amount of bureaucracy suffocates even the simplest of tasks. Even collaboration between the DOE National Laboratories is plagued by a lack of common tools and a surplus of restrictions. I've got three sets of RSA keys to access each National Lab network and none of our systems talk to each other. Getting any hour of meaningful work done is usually accompanied by an hour of red tape, signatures, acronym-swimming, and centuries-old web tools. Even the "updated" timecard web page is barely functional (uptime only 60% of every hour) and follows archaic processes and deadlines.