Bait and Switch; Toxic Culture - Senior Data Engineer Zelis Employee Review

1.0
Feb 4, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Remote and the salary only pros.

Cons

The role was a total bait and switch as I was hired for one position but given different set of responsibilities. This is a sink-or-swim culture where you receive zero training, mentorship, or guidance on how to succeed. Leadership is purely transactional and treats employees like workers who must obey without question rather than valued contributors. Also clearly offshoring very aggressively, with the vast majority of the team being moved to India. Very toxic. I would avoid.

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Zelis Response
3mo
We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that your experience felt misaligned with the role you expected and that you did not feel adequately supported. That is not the experience we aim to create. We are continuously working to improve our hiring transparency, onboarding practices, and leadership development. Feedback — even when difficult to hear — helps inform that work. We wish you the best in your next chapter.

Explore other reviews about Zelis

5.0
May 27, 2026
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CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great company to work for Flexible working hours Flexible time off

Cons

Salaries are on the lower end of the market

2.0
Apr 13, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good work/life balance, generous PTO

Cons

• Excessive management layers: There are too many layers of management, many of which seem focused on self-preservation rather than supporting the team. This creates unnecessary bureaucracy, leaving employees bogged down with low-value tasks and corporate checkboxes instead of meaningful work. • Outdated technology and resistance to innovation: The tech stack is significantly outdated, and there is a clear resistance to adopting modern solutions. For example, I was penalized for incorporating AI into development work, despite other teams being encouraged to use tools like ChatGPT for less impactful tasks. Opportunities to implement cost-saving, AI-driven solutions were dismissed without proper consideration. • Unsustainable expectations for advancement: Promotions appear to be reserved only for top performers who are willing to prioritize work above all else. The expectation to “eat, sleep, and breathe” the job creates an unhealthy work-life balance and limits growth opportunities for otherwise strong contributors.

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