Pros
UC Merced is a reasonable and accomodating employer who is supportive of the staff, faculty and students. Ucmerced is very family friendly. There are many IT initiatives being planned and executed, so the environment is enjoyable and sometimes a bit challenging. I, and many of my co-workers feel that we are doing work that really matters to the community; it's a great feeling. We get tons of holidays and a special Christimas break as well.... can't dislike that! Pension too! Not a lot of employers off a pension these days.. I'd say that UC Merced is a great place to work... and since I'm looking to retire in a couple years, this is a completley honest and unbiased appraisal.
Cons
Sometimes critidal lacks in the environment are discovered that take far to long to remediate due to staffing levels and funding. Perhaps since I spent 25 years in the private sector, i have unrealistic expectations. 'EDU' is quite a different sort of space in comparison to the private sector. I'd recommend that you state your salary needs quite clearly and fight for them up front; people do get promoted and such, but it's not the quickest process.