Pros
The benefits (pension, 401k, commuting subsidy, hybrid schedule) are fine. The environment is energizing and exciting, with a lot of interesting things happening daily on campus. Many people who work here are wonderful and kind.
Cons
For decades, the annual increase in staff salary has been 3%, which is "merit-based" meaning that, if your supervisor has an issue with your work, it could be less. Although inflation is significantly more in the area, there has never been a cost of living adjustment for staff. Many people leave for other positions, and often their work will fall on current staff with no additional compensation. There is little opportunity to grow in your position. At an event, an HR official said that the best way to get promoted at MIT is through "networking". and that the 3% merit raise is based on inflation (which is not true at all). This is a major frustration for many staff at MIT. Lots of lip-service from management and no actual changes to negative work environments.