Palantir

Important work that creates new technology and solves important problems – work with real meaning.

Talented coworkers always have something to teach and to learn – collaboration is amazing.

Equity packages with little risk and still lots of upside (even for new employees).

Upper management is filled with super sharp and hard-working people who care deeply about the success of the organization and its people. They're not perfect, but they are the best I've ever seen.

A great culture where people who want to take initiative are rewarded and lauded. The culture is protected and cared for to make sure this place doesn't lose its magic.

A management team that's very introspective and transparent, always trying to learn and do better.

A true meritocracy, where the best idea wins and seniority and titles are not important, just good work.

Some managers are sharp individuals but poor managers. Despite best efforts to train them, some folks suffer due to this.

Company is growing fast, and growing pains abound. The company is working hard to offset these issues, but new ways of doing things need to be implemented.

Another growth issue: upper management is overworked more than anyone, leading to some pressing issues slipping through the cracks. They get fixed eventually, but there's pain in the meantime.

People work hard, and some groups try to maintain an unsustainable pace that leads to burnout and jealousy of people perceived to have "cushier" jobs.

Overall compensation is high (due to stock options that are/will be worth real money), but cash compensation is lower than industry (not ridiculously so, but low, yeah).

Raise salaries, or talent will flee (I've heard this from new and old-timers alike).

Listen to reports of crappy managers, seriously, and take them to task instead of letting them punish their reports.