Lots of opportunity, but only if you are on a first name basis with the VP’s
Pros
Lots of opportunity to take on projects that you are interested in. Easy to become a SME in an area that you want (be warned; you will be the SME forever after!) Benefits are good, especially the health benefits if you play their “healthy pathways” game. Ok work/life balance and option to work from home IF you management allows it. Ability to set your own goals and path (don’t expect management to tell you how to progress within the company or help you)
Cons
Don’t expect any help or direction from management. They are shuffled around or quit so often anyone below them has little hope of moving up in the company. Making friends with upper/senior management is the only way to be promoted. Random after hours work. Other teams expect you to support their technology at a whims notice! Very important Employee Engagement Surveys were conducted last year (2013) and most IT departments failed miserably. Management promised changes. Nothing has changed. Another survey was just conducted for 2014 and Management & Upper Management literally forced employees to complete it. Results will most likely be way worse than last year.
