Interesting DoD signal processing work in submarine sonar if you can live with no management (Univ. of Texas) - Recensione dipendente - Research Engineer presso Penn State

2,0
9 dic 2008
Consiglia
Gradimento del CEO
Pronostico commerciale

Vantaggi

This *was* a research facility in Austin, Texas, where you could learn a lot about signal processing. Interesting technical work in a niche field (high-frequency sonar for submarines); offers some good signal processing and signal detection experience. Great opportunities to attend graduate school for a master's degree (they'll pay). You could even earn a Ph.D. (they'll pay) if you are truly dedicated and don't want a personal life. This is a division of The University of Texas at Austin, so close ties to higher-ed. Steady work. A few opportunities still around to explore new technology and science; they buy a lot of new computers to play with. Very flat management hierarchy: only 4 people in the chain from bottom employee to division head; Pay is decent but not great. Some travel if you like that.

Svantaggi

These days it's become just another software production company. Turns out new feature set every 1-2 years, but very poor software quality. Not really doing much research anymore in our department; just writing code to make more GUIs. Morale is low. No Q/A, unit testing, code reviews, detailed design, or coding standards -- just "slapped-together" software that meets minimum requirements. Folks have lost a lot of pride in what they do these days. Micro-management in this division; engineers pushed into management roles with no training; management has a difficult time communicating the project vision, status, and requirements to engineers. Too often people discover they have a product or delivery due in just a few days or weeks because of poor planning by and communication from management. No bonuses or stock options. Health care benefits are good but seem pricey (about $6k/year for a family after UT kicks in their part). Very little continuing education offered except the opportunity to go to Univ. of Texas for a degree (bachelors, masters, and Ph.D.)

Esplora altre recensioni su Penn State

5,0
21 giu 2026
Consiglia
Gradimento del CEO
Pronostico commerciale

Vantaggi

Friendly professor and professional staff

Svantaggi

Reassignment can take longer and can be a tedious process

4,0
26 giu 2026
Consiglia
Gradimento del CEO
Pronostico commerciale

Vantaggi

flexibility. I'm on a fellowship I won with a great advisor. It is not so good for others.

Svantaggi

An inherently liminal position with severely reduced benefits.

Vedi recensioni per: Utile|Valutazione|Data|Tutto