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Etch Division: lack of equality and cronyism

Mechanical Engineer IV
Current Employee
Has worked at Applied Materials for 20 years
July 7, 2014
Sunnyvale, California
1.0
Doesn't RecommendPositive OutlookNo CEO Opinion
Pros

My work was interesting and stimulating, but it has become more of a drag lately.

Cons

This division has been taken over by staff from an infamous failed startup. Most of the original experienced AMAT engineers have left or have been squeezed out and replaced by their ex-colleagues, in many cases with less experience, in higher positions, and very likely at much higher salaries.

I've been a professional engineer for 30 years and with AMAT for over 15 years, earning several performance awards and always had great performance reviews. I have heard that some of these new engineers, with much less experience, and hired at the same grade as me, are being paid up to 20% more than me.

It's a toxic environment which is only going to get worse.

Many of my colleagues and I are preparing our exit strategies.

Advice to Management

Do something about the rampant cronyism and lack of equality.

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