Pros
A lot of great & hard-working coworkers, 3/4 days off a week and incredible benefits make this job worth staying at (175% HSA match). You have unlimited opportunities to learn and the ability to transfer to another department after getting a feel for what you would like to do. Safety equipment like shoes and glasses are reimbursed, and there are vending machines around where you can receive free safety glasses, gloves, and cut resistant sleeves (I think 1 each/month). Safety culture is pretty strict, but they do also provide FR clothing that you don't have to wash yourself. Insurance itself is a little expensive and has a high deductible, but you qualify for vision and dental insurance separate from health which each cost about 6 bucks a month. There is strong collaboration between departments throughout the company, but meaningful changes can take awhile to go into effect due to how many desks they have to cross to be approved.
Cons
There is little/no room for vertical growth in the test rack. Employee reviews are not based on any objective standard, which inevitably means ratings do not accurately reflect individual employee performance. 401k receives only partial vesting after 2 years, 6 to vest fully. 12 hours standing and exposure to dust and fumes is unavoidable. Occasionally there is pressure to work through break times to complete tasks, and different departments will place emphasis on different priorities. There is a significant language barrier between different racial and ethnic groups on the shop floor, and there is no good translation app or service for the main language (Zomi) that you will encounter. Because AAON is a 2nd chance employer, you will be working with some folks with unsavory backgrounds. This includes pedophiles, so be wary of who you are friendly with. Shop conditions inside are heavily dependent on outside temperature, with extreme seasonal hots and colds.
