Pros
The Smithsonian is a committed, intellectually stimulating, collegial place to work, while at the same time offering the stability and benefits of federal employment. The mission of the Smithsonian, the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men, is clearly front and center to the Institution and its workers. It is quite an interesting place to work with behind the scenes understanding of what happens in the largest museum complex in the world. You are surrounded by highly intelligent specialists and experts in many different fields. Not only is it a museum complex, but much scientific and historical research is constantly being produced.
Cons
Like other government agencies, The Smithsonian is highly bureaucratic and slow to respond to changes, and can tend to be very hierarchical. The structure of the Institution, with 20 museums and numerous other research centers and office space, feeling like one institution can be difficult to attain. There has been recent trouble with the former leadership of the Institution, the ramifications of which are still being felt. There is an aging population of workers, many of whom have been there for a long time, so adoption of new technology and new approaches to work and management is slow and difficult.