Follow the rules, spoken or otherwise, and you'll be fine...for a while.
Pros
Within the limitations, a generally secure job and great benefits. Many opportunities to move around laterally in a department and outside a department. Steady step raises but can max out a certain level until a promotion. Raises are not guaranteed and depends on the fiscal situation. Learn to navigate the obstacles there and it will be a great job, even a career.
Cons
One cannot simply change the world through government, any government. LAC is a big machine that does not turn quickly and runs over lots of people in the process. Politics sets the agenda so the pursuit of excellence, and other virtues, are looked upon with suspicion, even optional. Definitely not an environment for everyone as compromises galore will exist in terms of performance, quality, innovation, and creativity.
