One of the best managed companies in semiconductor equipment industry in United States - Senior Process Engineer Lam Research Employee Review

5.0
Feb 15, 2012
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- Top-notch technology in dry etch - Market share leader - Highly-qualified, motivated work force - Heavy R&D investment - Competitive salary and top benefits in semi-tool industry of the Bay Area - Practices business in an ethical way - Support to employee's day-to-day life is outstanding (Help Desk, HR, IT, Benefits, lab supplies, Logistics, laptop, iPhone/BB, etc.)

Cons

- Very often it is stressful to meet customer's demo requirements (Specs and timelines) - Need to invest more on metrology tools (SEM, CD-SEM, etc.) to cut down queue time for engineers - Compared to other semi-tool companies, although Lam had relatively less lay-off's but still had laid-off people during 08/09 downturn - Middle and 1st-line managers are mostly promoted from technical positions. They are lack of good interpersonal skills. Need to offer them effective training

Explore other reviews about Lam Research

5.0
Jun 21, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great opportunities, pay, and benefits

Cons

Some employees suffer work/life balance

1.0
Jun 25, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Opportunities to support global activities

Cons

Heavy micromanagement — frequent revisions on ppt to minor details like font size and colors. Frequently calling staffs even after work hours and lunch time. Manager often takes on additional work from other teams without considering current team workload, So the manager appears supportive and “nice” externally but creates additional burden to the subordinates. Manager controls team budget strictly for team-building activities (events and meals), team members feel restrictive and reluctant to participate, for example team members dare not order appetizers, dessert or drinks on top of entrees during team events. Manager used up most of the travel budget. Biz trip and personal travel boundaries are unclear, especially when manager frequently has business trips overlaps with personal travel. Seems like manager using biz trip to get free hotel and free air tickets for PTO.

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