Pros
Great place to work on interesting problems for important clients. Reasonable pay, especially for a non-profit, and very good benefits. Labs and shops are well-equipped, mostly modern equipment kept well-maintained and regularly upgraded. Good opportunity for taking on responsibility, although figuring how to do that takes a lot of individual effort. A major plus is the smart and energetic staff. Most work is done with a lot of freedom for project work groups to take their own track and do the right things. Really good latitude to shift work time to meet family needs. Lots of the work is hard to do, but really important.
Cons
Has many different work groups, and not all get along with the others. Wide variability in the quality and capabilities of supervisors and management. Project work deadlines can drive really long work hours to meet deliveries. Lots of administrative bureacracy that doesn't seem related to science or business.