Vantaggi
If you're a recent undergrad looking to break into lab work, I absolutely recommend Edge.
Out of the places I've worked, Edge Analytical is by far my favorite. I've recently seen that "we're like a family" is a red flag for work environments, but all the Edge labs really are a family (sometimes literally) and in a very green flag manner. Everyone is very supportive and even the clients at the Portland lab are wonderful people. I made great friends there that I have kept in touch with after leaving.
It's also an amazing learning opportunity -- you'll be trained on a diverse set of chemical and microbiological tests while following Standard Methods, TNI, and CFR requirements at an ORELAP accredited lab. It's a great introduction to compliance work and you'll learn a lot of transferable and highly sought after skills. You could definitely transition into city or government work from Edge and would have good connections too via the clientele.
(also if you like food, you'll fit in just fine)
Svantaggi
• There's not a lot of room for growth at the satellite labs, and the pay range and benefits for all employees (even lab managers) is underwhelming. However, the managers understand this and don't expect you to spend the rest of your career with Edge.
• It is client-based work, so some days are a crazier than others, but we always found a way to get through it together.
• The company is on the smaller side (maybe 40-50 employees across all the labs? Not sure how many work in the Washington labs)