employer cover photo
employer logo
employer logo

FirstCarbon Solutions

Is this your company?

The wait is over.. - Finance FirstCarbon Solutions Employee Review

1.0
27 Mar 2017
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The first seven years (pre FCS dba FirstCarbon Solutions dba ADEC innovations dba ADEC Solutions) were amazing!

Cons

The last 4 years here have been like watching our current POTUS at a speaking engagement; full of alternative facts, endless promises of global growth and grown men putting constant blame on their predecessor. I’ve seen this company go from a respectable environmental consulting firm that generated mid-size level revenue, employed 120+ professional/technical dedicated staff that were knowledgeable in their expertise and was an overall great company to work for to an 8-person circus show, with constant vacancies (which should also be a huge red flag!). If a company that has maybe 35 staff total has 18 open positions, it is not because they are growing and they are doubling in size, ask yourself why are there so many open positions? If interviewed, ask what the turn-over is and make it very clear that you don’t want the numbers for management, you want the numbers for the actual staff that goes out and gets the work and completes the work. Unfortunately the new generation of management that took over what was once a great place to get your foot in the door has turned this company into their own personal playground with full use of all monies and no real direction. For 4 years I heard the promises of growing to a global level, becoming the BEST firm out there, the launch of Envirosite and how it would monopolize all other data delivery services, doubling our revenue, better benefits packages, matching 401k, etc. I can attest that all those promises were empty. During my tenure I saw so many people who had given so much dedication, time and hard work to this company lose all confidence and respect in management and leave. This company has no real direction... is their focus on environment consulting? Sustainability? Data Recovery? Tax evasion? Who knows and neither will you, despite how many urgent All staff meetings are held or how many times you ask (plead) for a business plan.. who will ever know.

avatar
FirstCarbon Solutions Response
9y
We greatly appreciate the time any of our former and present employees take to write a Glassdoor review—we understand that there are many other ways you could otherwise use your time. A good political crack is always appreciated as well. That being said, FIRSTCARBON does feel it is important to respond to some of the out-dated and/or inaccurate (near libelous dare we say) statements made in this comment. While the company has been in existence since 1982, FIRSTCARBON SOLUTIONS purchased its predecessor in 2012 and formally changed its name in 2014. As noted by the reviewer, the change in company did make for a major change in company culture and a large expansion in the services that are now offered by the company. In short, the company went from a California based and limited company, to one with international offices and clients to match (although California still does, and will always, play a key role and the original environmental services division remains extremely important). That shift was not without its challenges. As new best-practices were implemented that took into account the expanded company presence, many long-time employees of the former company found the transition difficult. There was a large turnover in the first few years as noted-some voluntary, some not. Internal policies were revised and goals for adding benefits and new employee options were set. Some of these took time. The good news is that FIRSTCARBON has not only stabilized but has started to shine! The number of employees went from approximately 35 at its low to now over 80. We have active contracts in California, across the U.S., and globally. The 401k match was implemented and paid out for the first time this last year. Medical benefit options have expanded and the employer contribution increased. Career Tracks gives all employees a clear pathway to advancement. Annual Salary surveys ensure salaries are competitive. Careful hiring has ensured a talented and enthusiastic staff of which FIRSTCARBON could not be more proud. The services provided are important and often cutting edge. For more information on the services offered (and there are many!) please see our website at www.FIRSTCARBONsolutions.com.

Explore other reviews about FirstCarbon Solutions

5.0
28 Jan 2025
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The company's mission it to creative positive impact and value, and they deliver on that both externally and internally. Working on projects that support responsible growth and development and advance the UN SDGs means that we can all take pride in our daily contributions. And, with remote work options and an open forum for career development, the company is invested in creating a positive impact in the team's lives. Despite having employees across many time zones, there are opportunities to connect virtually for "water cooler" time.

Cons

The US and larger global organization cover a wide range of brands, products, and service offerings, so it can be challenging to keep up with what other teams are working on as we get busy on individual projects. Learn Over Lunches and internal newsletters help to bridge those gaps.

4.0
5 Jun 2025
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Positive environment. I feel like I’m part of a team even though everyone is virtual. I appreciate the autonomy and responsibility given to me and that there is support when needed. Lots of highly trained experts in their fields to parter with and all are friendly; however’ it can be hard to schedule time with them. Management does a great job checking in with team members.

Cons

Deadlines are tight and expectations are high. Benefits are not extensive. Sometimes project directors are too deferential to clients.

avatar
FirstCarbon Solutions Response
10mo
Thank you for recognizing our positive environment. We take pride in maintaining a strong team culture and open communication no matter where our employees and leadership team are based. To facilitate communication and scheduling, we remind staff to keep their calendars current. We monitor utilization and workload across our teams, and have several evergreen positions open in a continuing effort to grow our team. We encourage open communication between supervisors and teams to ensure manageable expectations. We are also proud to say that our current benefits package is above average within our industry. Please reach out to HR – we’d love to hear your suggestions or answer any questions you have.
See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All