Pros
The State of Tennessee has great hours and benefits. The job is not very demanding most of the time, which has its own (+/-). Leave is usually not an issue with the state. Travel is not an issue with the state; you might travel a couple times a year at most. Great job for someone with kids and family because hours are consistent and it doesn't consume all of your time.
Cons
The cons for working for the state are 1) it is hard, if not impossible to get a raise with the state. If you are a hard worker you will not be paid anymore for your effort. 2) Pay is not great compared to corp America in the BA field. 3) 401k is a joke. The state will match $50 a month. 4) There is a lot of turnover in the IT dept because the state can't compete with outside company’s salaries.