Pros
Excellent health care benefits; generous paid leave (if you are a 'regular' employee; PTO for 'temporary' staff is about on par with low-wage service work); defined-benefit pension; pay is above average for SOME positions (but not if you have an advanced degree)
Cons
The 'perks' are far outweighed by the down sides: Inconsistent or non-existent management despite absurd number of "managers"; abusive work culture; rampant misogyny and racism, including quid pro quo and pervasive hostile work environment harassment; poor internal communications; absolutely no opportunities for advancement or career development; internal politics and competition undercut institutional goals; terrible HR practices; senior management and those with power appear to have nothing but contempt for staff; staff have absolutely no power to move program; work hours can be excessive; oppressive and depressing work environment. Recent "restructuring" to manage major budget shortfalls has created more problems than solutions. People are afraid to voice criticisms of management and culture for fear of retaliation. There is also a lot of uncertainty about future job and pay security due to political attacks and mismanagement.