Pros
For entry & junior level software engineers, the Advanced Concepts division within the Solute environment offers a phenomenal learning opportunity. You get to experience and learn various aspects of software development, including testing/QA, continuous integration, and software architecture design. The small team environment fosters open communication, direct and hands-on work with technical lead/project managers. You would not be pigeon -holed, instead, there are so many opportunities you can create for yourself if you are proactive and take initiative. There are many talented engineers, especially the director of Advanced Concepts, who is very business savvy but also technologically verse. He is a very approachable person, considering that he is a business director at the exec level; he cares for his employees and ensures that they are happy with their projects and career trajectory. The company culture is great, the engineers go out weekly for lunches, occasional happy hours (on the Director's dime), and rock climbing. At the corporate headquarter in Mission Valley, the software engineering team is very colorful, vibrant, and lively people with great energy that inspires each other to become better. There are talks about acquiring standing desks, "business hammocks," and bringing dogs to work; this is the kind of small company with hip vibes. Definitely a great place to be if you like to work for a respectable and talented director with extensive technical background and impressive software knowledge.
Cons
3.3 hours of PTO (combined sick and vacation) per pay period. Unpaid time off is nearly impossible to get. No telecommute/work-from-home option. May get sent to work "on-site." Must be able to obtain a security clearance. Not developing a software product/service.