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      ORAU reviews

      Grunt work with minimal benefits - ORAU Student Services Contractor, US EPA ORAU Employee Review

      2.0
      28 Apr 2023
      Orau student services contractor, us epa
      Recommend
      CEO approval
      Business outlook

      Pros

      Hourly rate was decent for a job fresh out of college; better than service or retail. If you network hard, you might make connections that could help you get a fed job, but don't count on it. Can be a good stepping stone to jobs in government, research, and academia, especially if you have a good mentor.

      Cons

      Glorified internship. No PTO, very minimal health plan and retirement (likely because they don't expect you to use it. Your experience will depend a lot on the "mentor" you're assigned to -- some will be extremely supportive and nurturing, while others really treat you like their personal assistant. Expect condescension from fed employees (although many are perfectly nice), who have prestige, permanent job security, good benefits.

      Explore other reviews about ORAU

      5.0
      15 May 2026
      Communications specialist
      Recommend
      CEO approval
      Business outlook

      Pros

      Good contract work with the EPA

      Cons

      Contract got cut earlier than planned

      1.0
      3 Jun 2026
      Visiting scientist
      Recommend
      CEO approval
      Business outlook

      Pros

      The pros heavily depend on your host facility, program manager and mentor. My mentor is great and allows me lots of freedom to do my work and develop my skills. Depending on your host facility you get to work with federal agencies and potentially get connections for a permanent job.

      Cons

      We are considered not employed, but a "participant in a program". Our salary is a taxable income. There is no benefits other than an offered health insurance that costs hundreds each month out of your salary for minimal coverage. There is no PTO. You have to ask permission if you want to take a day off or go on a trip. Any problems with the management goes unnoticed and you get told by ORISE to speak to the program manager even if they are the problem.

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