A decent company, an interesting opportunity to learn, a good first job - but not a career - Anonymous employee ABB Employee Review

3.0
Nov 18, 2008
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The work can be challenging and interesting. ABB is a multinational organization with a diverse client base. Thus, there are opportunities to gain practical experience in a wide range of industries. For example, an engineer working in controls might be exposed to refineries, chemical plants, pulp and paper mills, power plants, ... Management was flexible with respect to personal issues. Comp time, telecommuting, flex time (often during the summer) were offered. They offered decent benefits, but salaries were slightly below average.

Cons

My original subdivision was poorly run: nepotism was a problem; management did not communicate with the staff; and morale was poor. We repeatedly faced reorganizations. However, we were too small to attract C level attention until the damage was irreversible. There were (are?) some issues caused by the madcap acquisition period (1980's to 2000). As a result of ABB's expansion, there were parallel functions in different ABB organizations, but communication between such groups was rare. Effort has been made to consolidate, but an emphasis on price rather than value has lead to shift of established operations from US/Europe to newly formed groups in Asia. As a result, much hard-won knowledge has undoubtedly been lost.

Explore other reviews about ABB

5.0
May 5, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good small work team and efficient work

Cons

None perhaps they could provide more relocation benefits

3.0
May 26, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- Exposure to large-scale manufacturing systems and cross-functional projects - Can build strong manufacturing and quality engineering experience quickly - Competitive pay and solid benefits for the area

Cons

Work-life balance can be inconsistent depending on department and production demands * Advancement opportunities may feel limited without moving into management or relocating * Communication and management consistency can vary between shifts/departments * Production pressure and changing priorities can create stress in quality-related roles * Some roles may require overtime or schedule flexibility that can be difficult for employees with family responsibilities * Recognition for process improvements and extra responsibilities may not always match workload expectations * Culture can feel more production-focused than employee-focused at times

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All