Pros
-Excellent work-life balance (9/80 work option, 3-4 weeks of PTO at start date, December break, inexpensive on-site gym) and benefits (health insurance, HSA, etc.). -Many avenues to learn new skills (technical library, e-book subscription, and independent study groups). -Great place to “begin” or “end” career, develop skills and learn. -Rehiring is possible, as one advances, they can possibly return to a slower pace at a higher pay grade. -Tucson offers great standard of living (inexpensive real estate, education at Pima CC & UofA, good restaurants). -Located throughout the US so you there are opportunities to transfer. -The people are a major asset to this company. -Relaxed dress code. -Layoffs occur but can be avoided if you have the work ethic and keep skills up-to-date.
Cons
-Career trajectory is limited due to knowledge silos and limited professional development. Bureaucratic environment makes promotion almost impossible. -While software development is collaborative, this can be viewed as needing too much assistance. Thus, your performance review may suffer. -Software development practices are applied inconsistently and one may become disengaged. -Professional development process is a bi-annual routine and no "real" mentorship exists. It is mostly inconsistent and somewhat intimidating. One may feel, they cannot express knowledge/skills-gap. -Due to the nature of the work, electronic devices may not be permitted.