Pros
WestEd is full of committed, smart, and thoughtful professionals. I am consistently impressed with my colleagues and the quality of their work. There are high expectations for your work across the agency, yet WestEd encourages (and truly supports) work/life balance. Compared to other, similar, organizations, WestEd is less hierarchical. I often do not know the "level" of others I am working with on projects. Tasks are assigned based on skill, interest, and availability instead of simply one's level in the organization. The benefits and working environment are incredible. I feel valued, respected, and supported and feel that the pay, benefits, and opportunities offered to employees reflect that.
Cons
Though the heart of our work is team-based, it can be easy to become isolated in your work if you don't reach out consistently across the agency. This varies by role, program, and office/work location, but you have to work proactively to stay engaged with others. The agency is committed to collaboration, and is working on improving program silos, but they can be a barrier to the work.