Pros
Star has some of the best middle management and direct labor staff that I have ever worked with. Many employees with 15+ years of employment, very dedicated to the company and good at what they do. I found the employees very helpful and cordial.
Cons
Since Middleby's purchase of Star in 2008 and the ouster of Frank Riccio as president the culture and focus of Star has changed, unfortunately, for the worse. Star once valued creating lasting relationships and quality products for its clientel. Under Middleby the focus is on wringing every last cent out of the product in order to bolster the bottom line and satisfy the shareholders of this publicly traded company. The employee healthcare plan is very high deductible, no 401K match, they discontinued the company funded retirement plan when they took over and have not given raises since they've owned the company. The Elgin, IL based executive officers seem to see Star as a profit center only and not care about it's employees or their well being.