Pros
I really enjoy working at REI because they take care of you for taking care of the customer. My values are their values and I am always doing what I believe is right for the customer. I've not had to compromise ethics or service here. Every employee is a real human who is shown respect. Servant-leadership style, all the way to the senior vp/ceo levels - completely authentic in this regard and my main reason for being a part of this company. Additionally the work-life balance is great, maternity and paternity leave, 40 hours a week and I've NEVER been required to work overtime, but when I have elected to myself, my family sees a bigger paycheck for it because even mgmt (other than store manager and senior managers) are paid hourly.
Cons
If you are considering this job, do it for the passion, the values, and the balance. There are advancement opportunities, but REI doesn't open that many new stores a year, so while there is opportunity, there could be more. The pay is mid-high level for retail, but compared to other industries retail pay is still low. The job is VERY relational. You need not only to do good work, but also keep a team highly motivated and positive. This is easier said than done, especially with a workforce of folks with such high expectations and ideals.