Love the mission, BUT - Senior Program Specialist Smithsonian Employee Review

3.0
Sep 15, 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Amazing colleagues, strong institutional mission & values, potential for extended workplace flexibilities post-COVID

Cons

Limited growth potential if positions are not classified with an existing career ladder (e.g., 7/9, 11/12, etc.), Human Resources department is broken -- potentially beyond repair, too often SI relies on its name to get things done which doesn't always lead to sustainability

Explore other reviews about Smithsonian

5.0
Jun 8, 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
Jun 6, 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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