employer cover photo
employer logo
employer logo

Environmental Working Group

Engaged employer

Can do a lot better. - Anonymous employee Environmental Working Group Employee Review

2.0
24 Aug 2021
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Pay is higher than other comparable non-profits of this size, schedule is flexible based on family needs, and there is a lot of opportunity to interface with other interesting people/orgs within the field.

Cons

I really want to write something more positive here, but the truth is that we cannot hold on to diverse and bright talent for several reasons. It is important to note that founder’s syndrome is a very real barrier within this organization that seriously stymies further growth on many levels, and in that way, the organization has not adapted as well as other more progressive organizations that are growing in size. Little to no internal checks and balances are in place to prevent discrimination of varying types (which unfortunately does exists at leadership level). 4 people of color have left within several months, and it’s just so disappointing to see. Junior staff do not have development opportunities to grow in their roles, and middle management does not exist essentially.

Explore other reviews about Environmental Working Group

5.0
20 Jan 2023
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

From my understanding EWG is one of the most successful non-profits for lobbying on the Hill. Compared to other organizations they do a great job getting through and meeting with officials as well as getting representatives to support their legislation. This is in large part because of their success reaching their base through social media, etc. Dark Waters the movie was a great boost for them as well as having celebrity support. It has a big impact as an organization and was the first group to bring attention to PFAS at the national level.

Cons

Not really a downside, but I also think it's important to note that EWG is a really ethical organization and always working towards bettering itself - the CEO Ken Cook is genuinely such a sweet person. In discussions about the company's investment portfolio employees brought up ethical conflicts with EWG investing in Johnson & Johnson and Coca-Cola, etc. which to me signaled an engaged, caring workforce. They also had DEI meetings and hired a consultant pertaining to that too. Everyone was very accepting of employees using they/them pronouns, having piercings and such, which was a very liberating environment.

4.0
12 Apr 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

My time there was great! I loved my team and learned a lot. The best part was waking up and being part of work I believed in—you can't always say that, which was pretty amazing.

Cons

I think it's more of an NGO thing than specific to EWG, but there isn't always an incentive to get work done quickly. Though lots of emphasis is placed on high-quality, which is good.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All