Vantaggi
-Company is structured to provide excellent flexibility with work/life balance. -Generally the atmosphere is pleasant and respectful, compared to other places I've worked. -Project work can be very interesting, especially in the Engineering and Design Business Unit. -Customer service focused business model contributes to success because of high client satisfaction (each year clients are asked to rate Barr and indicate what they can do better). -The "free-market" structure pushes individuals to perform at their best. A good fit for a "people-pleaser", in my opinion. -Resources for continued education include 36 paid hours per year and $2,000 to $3,000 for expenses (I can't recall the exact amount for expenses). -Good opportunities for in-house training. -If you find yourself working for a poor manager, its much easier to find another manager to work for than at other companies I've worked.
Svantaggi
-Internal "free-market" structure creates competition internally and takes away from collaboration. Not the best place for the team-oriented individual, in my opinion. I've observed this at all levels, from the staff engineers to the Vice Presidents. -Internal "free-market" structure sometimes contributes to a cut-throat culture. Also discourages loyalty. -A very litigious company. Manages risk well although in my opinion it's been over the top at times, adding to strained relationships with business associates. -Many software applications, such as ArcGIS and SWMM, are utilized with shared licenses which can become inconvenient (too many people require a license at once, can only access certain software on remote work stations, etc.). -Year-end reviews are advertised solely as a tool for improvement, but are also used to fire people. Fortunately, you can approve/deny individuals to review you. If you work here, be careful how you use the reviews and be careful who you allow to review you. -Working in a branch office is significantly more difficult because of the "free-market" culture. It is hard to maintain a presence and market oneself to new opportunities when not in Minneapolis, which is where the majority of staff resides. -I've seen Barr hire new employees when there wasn't a strong enough demand. Beware of lower-than-expected project work volume, especially if you are young and in a branch office.