Timken, which used to be a good employer to work for, is now a hollow shell of its former self.
Pros
A recognized name in the manufacturing industry with a past track record of innovative ideas in the bearings industry. It has survived 100+ years and will continue to survive even during this global economic downturn. The Canton, Ohio Global Headquarters is located in very low cost of living area.
Cons
This is a "good ol' boy" manufacturing company full of double standards. Beware of the "fair haired" employees that management caters to. Unless you know someone who knows someone or have existing relatives working there - there's little advancement opportunity so expect to stay in the position you are hired for a very long time. Timken does not offer Cost of Living Adjustments and currently there is no matching 401K contributions by the company. New employee orientation is poor, be prepared to go on an "Easter Egg Hunt" to find information about your benefits. Your manager probably won't even be clear on it, so don't rely on them. Expect to be treated with suspicion by existing employees, the survivors of mass layoffs that are still happening in the company and to get dumped in projects where there are no resources or management backing - but you will be expected to complete. Do not expect training. Timken has never been keen on paying for training. Any training you need, you'll need to do that out of pocket on your own. The Timken work ethic is this: work over 40 hours every week, through your lunch, and be prepared to work weekends and change personal family plans with no notice ... all without compensation. Timken doesn't promote or encourage telecommuting. This company is a manufacturing company and is concerned only with shareholder earnings and the bottom line. It's not a family friendly place and couldn't care less. Do not expect recognition for your work, but be prepared to find out that promotions and raises are based on who is friends with who and not based your work. You may work 40+ hours a week, save the company thousands of dollars ... but don't be surprised that the guy who sleeps in his cube, comes in late, slips out early, and calls in sick all the time will get a raise when you don't because he's friends with your Gneeral Manager. Timken is full of these type of people.