I wish they hadn't bought my company - Architect Stantec Employee Review

1.0
Feb 7, 2013
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

They are big. Wait, is that a pro?

Cons

When it comes to design and architecture, they have the worst organization format you can think of. They are publicly traded so it's all about growing and getting bigger, fatter, more inefficient, less effective, more expensive. And, clients DO notice. After the merge we lost all our loyal clients, we got too big for them. And not big enough to fetch bigger clients. 70% of the staff has left since the merger. Before then we hadn't lost more than 10% in 5 years. I still remember how HR landed after the merger telling us that "Nothing will change. Staff is our more important asset". It isn't. Within 2 years you couldn't find a happy face in the office.

Explore other reviews about Stantec

5.0
May 16, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Working as an Administrative Assistant at Stantec involves a wide range of responsibilities and can be highly rewarding for those who are motivated and proactive. The office environment is positive, and colleagues are approachable and collaborative. Being part of a large international organization also brings a strong sense of pride and purpose to the role.

Cons

One downside of working at Stantec is the uncertainty around job security, as organizational restructuring and cost-saving measures can sometimes lead to unexpected layoffs.

2.0
May 15, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Hybrid Work and access to useful engineering tools

Cons

Projects are inconsistent in organization and structure (some good some bad). High (and strict) utilization requirements of >93% for entry level and mid level engineers results in overtime with overlapping work loads to avoid any downtime between projects. No development or mentorship strategy around work assignments, the main goal is to keep utilization up. Stantec has been very focused on cutting costs by offshoring, limiting conference attendance, reducing volunteer hours, no tuition reimbursement, multiple layers of approvals to attend in-office CPR training, etc. Very corporate environment and top heavy management with over 240+ “Vice Presidents” currently at the company. Difficult to get raises/promotions besides annual raise. Typical raise is ~3-5% with a good review depending on where your current salary is in relation to the pay range for your career level.

2
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