Like most utilities, work-life balance favors the "nuclear family" ie, employees with kids, which is a good thing. Unfortunately, if you've got family on opposite coasts or other countries, good luck. No ability to negotiate or purchase additional vacation time. 3 weeks for first 10 years is a bummer. Very few remote-work options. Many positions do not have flexible schedules (unless you've got kids). No sabbaticals or unpaid time off. This lack of time off is tough on many employees who have aging family members states away or ambitious young employees who want to travel. I wish HR would consider vacation purchase options or unpaid time-off. As a young, well paid professional, even having 5 weeks of vacation would make this a dream job.