Pros
People are very nice Hours are great (37.5/wk) Paid time off is exceptional (1 sick, 1 vacation per month years 1-5) Holiday time off is above average (11) Opportunity for training is excellent (free Lynda.com account, Learning Tree classes) Lots of room to advance Benefit costs are better than most private sector (I pay less in a month for health, vision and dental than I did in a week in private sector) Benefit coverage is better than average Variety of benefits, perks, etc. is large Work is interesting and benefits the people of the State of Tennessee. Very low stress (I sleep at night) Great work/life balance (I can leave the job at work) Some positions have the chance at getting a 'bonus' with their raise All job descriptions, pay rates, benefits, etc. are public information Future pro - the ability to work from home is being researched
Cons
Retirement benefits have been changed for new employees (still better than most) Things can be slow to happen (account access, software requests, etc.) If you are used to and enjoy a super fast paced environment, this is not If you are looking for a private sector salary, you won't get it here (this is why we work reduced hours, get better than average time off, etc.) Lots of office politics to navigate (but this is true of most places) Any time you change jobs, you are on 'probation' for one year (or if you are a new hire to the state) Raises are cost of living and the same across the board even if you've done an outstanding job (though you may be eligible for a 'bonus')