Pros
Tech Intel. Had the opportunity to do some really great stuff, learned a lot. Started out as a really fun job.
Cons
- A lot of retired military (which I also am) working in Tech Intel who are way out of their league. Oftentimes put in leadership positions, without the the proper base of knowledge, They expect civilians to operate via a strict chain of command just like they are in uniform. - One individual in particular ran a hostile work environment which resulted in a high of turnover of people, civilians, military and contractors (fired). IG investigated, his DoD service refused to promote, DIA hired him, promoted and kept in the same job. Not a good plan considering you've got lots of people with high security clearances who are axed for nothing more than the manager's ego. - Practically everything runs on egos and organizational politics from DC, not technical requirements. - A lot of jockying for power, backstabbing. - Government positions are Excepted service which means you have less job security than Competitive service. If you transfer from Competitive service and want to go back, you can't compete for jobs as a member and pretty much are coming in like your not a government employee. Something to consider if you go there.