I worked at Mathematica full-time for more than 8 years
Pros
Interesting projects focused on important policy issues; wonderful culture; smart, supportive colleagues; flexible WFH policy; employee-owned
Cons
Proposal season (late spring/summer through early fall) can be stressful; was getting a bit more 'corporate' when I left; hope this doesn't dampen the generally positive, team-oriented culture.
Advice to Management
Could do more to get staff input/reaction before changing internal processes.
I have been working at MDRC full-time for more than 3 years
Pros
Salaries and benefits are great. Work schedules (hours and location) are flexible. I've always felt very supported and been given opportunities for growth and leadership. The people generally have... very little ego--mostly just nerds who are looking to make the world a better place. The organization has a big impact on public policy and practice.
Cons
Organizational culture has become a bit of an ideological bubble that is not accepting of dissenting opinions