FireworksAI

The technology itself is interesting, and there are some talented people on the team.

Where to begin. Compensation is below market and there's little transparency around pay or equity. Management is largely ineffective — decisions seem to come from the top with no clear strategy or roadmap, just constant direction changes that leave employees confused and burned out. The CEO micromanages and pivots constantly, which makes it nearly impossible to do meaningful work or plan ahead. There is no real path for career growth — no structured reviews, no mentorship, no ladder. You're expected to grind without any investment in your development.

Employees are not a resource to be burned through. Develop a real strategy, communicate it clearly, and pay people what they're worth. Retention starts with respect.