Isometric positions itself as a climate-forward, mission-driven organisation, but internally, the culture tells a very different story. The company leans heavily on the moral weight of the climate crisis to justify a high-pressure environment, unrealistic standards, and a culture of perfectionism that often punishes rather than supports its people. Despite its stated commitment to rigorous science, commercial and reputational considerations regularly took precedence over scientific integrity.
Scientific decisions were often subject to last-minute reversals driven by optics, stakeholder impressions, or internal politics—not peer-reviewed evidence or thoughtful process. This undermined the work of dedicated team members and created an environment where doing what was right scientifically felt secondary to protecting the company’s image. These decisions were often mandated from the very people who should have been protecting the ability to “Do it Right”.
Multiple employees were let go abruptly and without clear or documented rationale. In many cases, no formal feedback had been given, and performance concerns cited were vague or inconsistent. These actions bred deep insecurity among remaining team members, and a pattern emerged: sudden terminations with little warning, limited explanation, and minimal to no regard for the human impact. Leadership decisions are highly concentrated among a small group with limited experience managing people or scientific work, and want to “win” at any cost. When concerns were raised about the impact of these decisions on morale and psychological safety, they were deflected or ignored. It is not uncommon that when new joiners introduce themselves on Slack, they will also be greeted by someone’s leaving message.
The result is a workplace defined by fear, instability, and performative values. Burnout, second-guessing, and attrition are common. Talented individuals who joined out of passion for the climate cause are often left disillusioned, frustrated, and emotionally drained. While the company promotes its climate mission externally, internally it often sacrifices the very rigour and ethics that should define impactful climate work. If you’re considering joining, beware: this is a high-risk environment where high expectations are not met with the support, clarity, or respect that meaningful, sustainable work requires.
