Great people to work with, but might seem like a dead-end for younger professionals - Software Engineer FAA Employee Review

4.0
19 Mar 2013
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

For me, there are three main things that determine job satisfaction. Who you work with, what projects you work on, and salary. I have worked here for three years now and can say that there is a pretty good culture here and everyone is easy to get along with. And, most of the projects are interesting.

Cons

The FAA, unlike most other federal agencies, uses "pay banding" instead of the GS scale. The first three years straight out of college you get decent pay grade increases. After that, though, you are pretty much on a frozen salary that likely will not keep up with inflation. There seems to be very little in the way of career advancement. There are no bonuses. Also during those first three years you only receive four hours of leave every two weeks, i.e., 8 hours leave per month. On the other hand, I suppose it is a fairly stable job, for the most part. But as a young professional with ambition, I can't help but wonder if there's something more challenging and rewarding out there.

Explore other reviews about FAA

5.0
4 Mar 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Usually very lenient and peaceful. People are great

Cons

They are very strict on certain areas. There are some managers who have power trips

4.0
27 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The mission is fantastic and the clients are good to work with in the agency.

Cons

Management changes with each administration with varying results

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All