Better than average working environment - Lab Analyst Dow Employee Review

4.0
7 Apr 2009
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

A relaxed, trusting environment where people are treated relatively well no matter what their position is. Workers tend to get along and communicate well.I am allowed to take breaks and eat as needed, also if I need to make a phone call for something personal that is also fine. It is easy for me to take off and there are several opportunities for overtime. The supervisors have been very fair and understanding and enjoyable to talk to. I can speak freely and am not rushed or under pressure. I appreciate that people can wok together easily. Because of the gate security I feel safe.

Cons

As a contracted worker, I do not have any of the benefits like health insurance, vacation days or a 401(k). I would feel much more secure as an employee than as a contractor. There are many online tests that have to be taken on a regular basis. There are not many downsides to this job, but I would prefer the location somewhere I could walk to get coffee or lunch, it is somewhat secluded but has good access to the interstate. Would like to see a more gender/racial/ cultural diverse atmosphere but I understand the surrounding area is only somewhat diverse.

Explore other reviews about Dow

5.0
16 Apr 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Culture and the technical expertise within the company provide for a working environment where you don't work in silo and everyone is willing to help support you

Cons

Administrative systems can be burdensome to overcome.

2.0
22 Mar 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Safety culture, flexibility (although less and less over time). Good health insurance and 401k match

Cons

Dow’s recent years illustrate the challenges of trying to simultaneously satisfy Wall Street’s demands for strong financial performance and aggressive DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) priorities. The company has heavily emphasized inclusion initiatives, including its openly gay CEO publicly sharing that coming out was one of the best days of his life in an internal communication, along with a notable increase in women appointed to senior leadership roles. Hiring practices reportedly require diverse candidate slates—including female candidates—and diverse interview panels before filling positions. These efforts, while well-intentioned, appear to have contributed to a series of questionable strategic decisions. Employees have borne the brunt through repeated rounds of layoffs (including significant cuts announced in recent years), minimal merit increases often in the 2-3% range, stalled promotions, and little turnover at the top levels of leadership. Senior executives seem insulated from the consequences, potentially overlooking how these factors—including their own leadership—may be central to the company’s ongoing struggles.

1
See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All