Solid institution, suffers from USG-style systems and malaise - Anonymous employee Smithsonian Employee Review

4.0
Sep 16, 2010
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- great mandate - very intelligent professional staff - satisfying mission - location and work atmosphere good - interesting areas of expertise

Cons

- all the cons of USG bureaucracy - culture of fear resulting from recent leadership change - USG style system of job movement for advancement, no growth in place

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.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All