Pros
Gradient had excellent management, flexibility, pay, work environment, benefits, work/life balance, community, coworkers, and variety of project work. I'm glad Gradient was my first job out of college, and I'm grateful to have worked with such amazing people!
I gained experience in data analysis, report writing, and communicating technical data to diverse audiences.
Kontras
There is little opportunity for growth as an Analyst at Gradient with just a Bachelor's degree. Most Analysts are promoted to a Senior Analyst after 1-3 years, then either go back to school for a master's or pivot from consulting (I'm pivoting from consulting). There are currently no oppurtunities for lateral growth for early professionals within the company.
This type of environmental consulting is not for everyone. Most of the data analysis and report writing was for larger companies doing the minimum to comply with regulations. Many of the clients are defendants in environmental litgation cases. The environmental work at Gradient doesn't defend the environment, but helps companies who are polluting the environment. To me, this was demoralizing and is definitely not for everyone.
As an Analyst at Gradient, most of the work is not very intellectually stimulating. Project managers use Analysts for the most tedious tasks that could be done by an intern.