Pros
Intelligent folks-- academically at least, but unclear if many could deliver more than commentary. Work-life balance as good as advertised by others. You can be self-sovereign/self-sufficient if you're able to deliver the goods. It's been largely as-expected based on my previous interactions with MITRE when I was with one of the publicly traded aerospace giants. Layoffs have been handled well. Maybe 3.5 *s
Cons
Meetings-attended is a productivity metric for many. Too many biz-dev/glad-handler types at the director ish level; they are unable to discern buzz-phrase-dropping polished posers from those who can bring the goods. Too much reverence/reward for administrivia guised as "leadership". The civilian gov side of the house getting pummeled by current environment, which... well... DUH! Officers spinning it positively, but nobody buying what they're selling. Rounding down to 3 * b/c it feels more like a consultancy then an engineering shop