Pros
- Simplexity PD provides an opportunity to work on an ever changing variety of projects.
Technical work includes design, finite element analysis, spreadsheet calculations, design of experiments and data crunching...pretty much anything you can think of is possible. It's mostly up to the engineer how "hand-on" vs. "shoot from the hip" vs. "analytical" you want to get with your designs. The company caters to different types of methods/personalities and will work with you if you can achieve success.
If you are bored and stressed over the technical work, simply take on additional projects to pull you through. Due to it's small size, there is ample opportunity to take on responsibilities that directly aid the company. You can help create marketing materials, update the website, suggest CAD and design process improvements and so on. Though I didn't take advantage of this last item - engineers can move into project management, especially by taking lead with a new client from marketing on through design.
- Distinct small company benefits. Most of the managers are owners of the company, so your suggestions, concerns and accomplishments are EASILY recognized by those that matter. Did I mention that every owner is an engineer! Managers are technical and understand career goals, difficulties and accomplishments from the engineer's perspective. Advice: If you're one to let feelings fester regarding work recognition or other issues - DONT! All the owners are easy going and open.
- Learn from experienced engineers. Most engineers at Simplexity retired from HP at one point and have a wealth of experience to share. Simplexity PD is the place to learn from the best in their trades. Engineers here consistently pull-off successful designs while working in completely new industries.
Great benefits and flexibility! Simplexity PD provides part-time work options (benefits included depending on the number of hours worked). Due to the nature of the business, work/life balance gets "occasionally" hectic and is really project dependent. However, Simplexity PD does a great job recognizing your accomplishments through dinner certificates, flexible work hours, comp-days, raises and the occasional telecommute. When the company is profitable, expect happy hours and profit-sharing bonuses as well. Compensation may be below expectations for some, but this is negotiable and the pros definitely outweigh the cons for those who can live with it. Lastly, they provide a slightly above average vacation, full medical/dental/vision, a Christmas party and the rare team building event.
Cons
- The nature of the engineering consultancy business calls for long hours at times. When the company transitions from slow to fast times, an engineer can have 3 projects running at the same time with time pressure for one or more of the projects.
- Onsite contracting for a client. Working onsite at Simplexity PD is great for all the reasons listed above. However, its likely that you'll work onsite at a customer for 6 months to one year at some point in your career. This is a great opportunity to meet new people and see how other companies function; but sometimes this leaves a disconnected "feeling" between you and coworkers from both Simplexity and the client company.
