Pros
Tri-State is one of the largest electric co-ops in the World(227th Ranked) and based in one of the best states you can live in, Colorado. The physical location of the main office is great if you are looking to avoid traffic and commuting (depending on where you choose to live). There are plenty of great areas to live (anything from studio apartments to luxury homes in gated communities) as well as spend time when off work (20-30 min drive to Boulder/Golden,/Downtown). It is located right off I-25 at exit 223 (about 10 miles from downtown Denver with a toll area for easier travel in rush hour) and easy to get to and from. Starting salary as an entry level Engineer was competitive and possibly more for my particular discipline. Benefits are mostly paid (small portion paid by employee for health, dental, and vision) and include health, dental, vision, retirement (1% 401k given, pension 5 years vested), PTO, tuition reimbursement (after 1 yr of service) etc. I have had no issues getting time off in any case. The entire staff is aware of work-life balance and understand that emergencies occur. As with any company ensure your emergencies are truly emergencies! Project work as a starting Engineer has been great. My responsibilities and expectations as an Engineer I have been in-line with my own expectations . I have been given room to learn on my own, but with as much supervision and assistance as I have needed and wanted. I have been given many chances to further my learning as training is always encouraged. Travel is super easy for work with the provided transportation. Visits from Westminster, CO to Craig, CO can be done in one day!
Cons
Utilities are not known for their ability to adapt and change at a pace consistent with technology. This is due to a number of factors and is not a Con so much as a warning. This is not Facebook folks.