You have to be Clever to gain - Anonymous employee Penn State Employee Review

2.0
11 Apr 2011
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

There are several departments and facilities. There is a large student community you can interact with and are good.

Cons

Salary, position and promotion are very unsatisfactory. Like everywhere, the PIs try to exploit to the maximum extent, no ethics. Mostly people coming from abroad lack this commercial outlook and also due to their visa restrictions, get exploited. Most of the PIs themselves are mediocre level of researchers struggling for their own survival and beneftis, so will think about the benefit of students or employees only if benefiting the employees benefits themselves. Health insurance costs much more compared with universities in other states. Salaries of Postdocs /RAs are very less in comparison to other places.

Explore other reviews about Penn State

5.0
17 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Flexible Hours Good work environment Competent management

Cons

Low pay Not many shifts

4.0
9 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Meaningful mission supporting community education and outreach programs. Gained valuable administrative and clerical experience, including scheduling, data entry, records management, and event coordination. Developed strong customer service and communication skills by assisting educators and community members. Worked for a well-respected public institution, which looks good on a resume. Opportunity to support nutrition education and public health initiatives, contributing to positive community outcomes.

Cons

Pay was very low compared to the responsibilities and cost of living. Limited opportunities for career advancement without changing positions or departments. Administrative work could become repetitive at times. Salary growth and raises were relatively modest.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All