Pros
Many opportunites exist to experience work in different parts of Jacobs - it just needs self-motivation, willingness and drive as it is too large a company to expect, as an individual, to be singled out for training / development. Salaries and office environments are very good - safety for all is a very high priority. Jacobs operates a 4.5 day week or 9 day fortnight which offers great flexibility - the opportunity for a long weekend every fortnight is really appreciated. The American culture took a while to understand and accept but by identifying the best of both the UK and US working practices, I certainly feel I am more focused on my work - I understand where it fits in the 'bigger picture' - and get more out of it. The offices I work in have had a very low turnover since I started- not just because of the recession - but I feel it is an indication that staff enjoy their jobs and working for Jacobs generally. IT support is very good locally, all problems logged on line and dealt with quickly. There is an excellent graduate scheme - involving mentors, outward bound weekends in the UK and the US etc.
Kontras
Generally management support is very visable and supportive...however there are a few executive managers that are guilty of 'cronyism' - it is difficult to understand the selection process for senior promotion - but that might be common in many large companies. There are also 'pockets' of bullying by senior managers - it is very difficult to know how to address this problem effectively and without putting my job at risk.....there are very few UK HR staff and they are frankly over-worked - very helpful but not really experienced to deal effectively with bullying at a high level.