Pros
Never going out of business; great job security; telework (after one year). As with any U.S. Federal position there are significant benefits. Lots of training.
Cons
Feel free to review the "Internal Revenue Manual" which is available online at http://www.irs.gov/irm . (IRM) 6.335.1.12.16(10) (12-29-2009) says, in part, “there are two situations when the losing office should not object to an employee’s release”. This is publicly available at http://www.irs.gov/irm/part6/irm_06-335-001.html A. IRS (unlike any other Federal agency I am aware of) has the ability to require employees to 1. Change positions without consent, and/or 2. remain in a position even if the employee successfully competes for a solicited detail assignment or full-time position if that position is a "lateral" (meaning same salary level). B. Soul-crushing bureaucracy even for the most flexible. : )