Solid institution, suffers from USG-style systems and malaise - Anonymous employee Smithsonian Employee Review

4.0
16 Sept 2010
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- great mandate - very intelligent professional staff - satisfying mission - location and work atmosphere good - interesting areas of expertise

Cons

- all the cons of USG bureaucracy - culture of fear resulting from recent leadership change - USG style system of job movement for advancement, no growth in place

Explore other reviews about Smithsonian

5.0
8 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great mission. Strong benefits including health insurance and 403b contribution. Many people stick around for 5, 10, 15+ years.

Cons

Things are sometimes slow due to bureaucracy.

4.0
6 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

There is a strong community and network in museum and natural science collections and support.

Cons

Working conditions have a standard of museum environment settings, not ideal for those that desire to be outside all day.

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