Pros
Some departments and teams have some of the best work place culture and take a people first approach to the work. As of 2020 the current leadership's values and decisions show alignment with this approach. This has been especially true during COVID policies, as well as responses to underrepresented communities impacted by racial equity. You are more likely to be treated and compensated closer to your actual worth in the private sector. The agency has been going through significant shifts in culture and leadership across the middle of the agency struggles to put theory into practice. Make sure to ask questions if interviewed to consider if you are applying for the right department or team. Some of the best work at the agency involves working outside and with community.
Cons
HR uses dated classification structures that do not align with the agencies values or current priorities. Inconsistencies across staff and management pertaining to work performance, and too often the common trope of women and BIPOC employees working twice as hard to achieve agency goals and priorities still hold true. Be cautious of middle management roles as they are often under paid with much more liability, overtime hours and lack of employment protection. Technology has been underfunded for decades and the agency is trying to catch up.