American Institutes for Research Employee Review

Pros – I really love working here. Coworkers are pretty friendly towards each other. They are the type of people you also want to hang out with outside the workplace.

Projects are also very interesting. The projects allow for personal growth and development. The staff manager that you usually are paired up with is one who pretty much lines up with what you'd like to tailor your career path.

Depending on who your project director is, it is also nice to be able to purchase books for your own personal development (as long as the book is relevant to your project).

The company has pretty good benefits (health, dental, and vision). The premium you pay is pretty low compared to other companies. They have an annual gala where everyone dress up. They also give out tickets for a Nationals game each year.

Cons – Research assistants and research associates are not paid very well compared to others in the industry (even when compared to other non-profits). Promotions are not just based on merit- it also depends on how long you've put in your time and it also depends on your credentials.

It's also very hard to climb the ladder because there are only a few levels to climb. A few people have been stuck as a research associate or researcher without being promoted for a long time.

Advice to Senior Management – Pay your research assistants and research associates better so that they won't be tempted to leave.