Pros
The salary is decent with a 3-4% annual merit increase The 9/80 work schedule is the only reason I am here (the off-Fridays are a huge benefit) 401k match dollar for dollar on GD stock Medical benefits are excellent Knowing that what we do saves American lives in the battle field promotes a sense of pride. We produce very interesting products
Cons
If it was not for the off-Fridays, I would leave the company Too many layers of Management Management disconnected with the daily product development activity. No support from upper management when design or product issues arise Very little interaction between upper management and the work force Do not offer any technical training for personnel development. Inefficient organization and are content with milking DoD contracts High performing employees are taken advantage of Now work / life balance, Grade band promotions are almost non-existent Over-time pay is capped at $25/hr (no incentive to stay late or work weekends) Occasionally - management mandates mandatory OT Whenever there is a down turn in the defense industry, lay-offs start at the bottom and management are not affected.