No micromanaging, but no advancement, either - Technical Writer/Editing Specialist SAIC Employee Review

3.0
12 Jan 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

* Freedom to telework, usually (although because it's "manager discretion," it varies wildly, even though our customers next to us have very liberal telework) -- Telework MAY be getting discontinued on our contract, unfortunately * All sorts of benefits on the federal customer's campus, such as a gym, daycare, amazing cafeterias, and others * SAIC University online training is free, so I guess that's nice * Personal time off accumulates decently enough, the longer you're there (after 5 years, I get about 5 1/2 hours every 2 weeks) * Lots of I.T. and H.R. support via a 1-800 number (easy to reach someone) * Anonymous complaint line for ethics or other violations * I've had more than one manager (due to retirements), and neither of them have micromanaged their employees at all

Cons

* Salaries on a federal contract are terrible * No room for advancement or promotion on our particular contract (because SAIC wants to stay competitive, I guess???? which makes no sense to me) * Tuition reimbursement has been eliminated * Health benefits have skyrocketed and are typical (higher co-pay for the more flexible plans, etc) * Telework can be eliminated at the manager's whim, and that's causing people to leave when combined with the low salaries and lack of advancement * Still no parental leave for childbirth (just disability) - although there are same-sex partner benefits

Explore other reviews about SAIC

5.0
3 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Exciting work load that is consistently evolving.

Cons

work hour flexibility is limited to a two week period.

3.0
9 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Current Leadership: The management structure has stabilized significantly, and my current supervisor is excellent—supportive, engaged, and great to work with. Excellent Team Culture: The coworkers here are fantastic. There is a strong sense of camaraderie, and the team is incredibly supportive. Strong Compensation & Growth: The base pay is competitive and fair, and there is excellent opportunity for extra pay and overtime. From a professional development standpoint, I have learned an immense amount in my field over the past year. Enjoyable Travel: Excellent opportunities for work-related travel that adds great variety to the day-to-day routine.

Cons

Management Inconsistency Early On: My first supervisor took zero interest in team well-being, or development and the second had significant temperament issues that ultimately led to their departure. While it has been resolved now, Apparently management here like a lot of places is hit and miss. Heavy Workload: The workload can feel a bit overwhelming and intense at times. Striking a consistent work-life balance remains a challenge under the current demands. Role Expectation Mismatch: Some of the technical responsibilities and projects I have handled since joining were not clearly outlined or explained during the interview process. Navigating these unstated expectations alongside an already heavy workload has been a significant challenge.

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