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      Smithsonian

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      Smithsonian reviews

      4.1

      66% would recommend to a friend

      (508 total reviews)
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      Dr. David J. Skorton

      75% approve of CEO

      64% positive business outlook

      Ratings by demographic groups

      Smithsonian has an employee rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, based on 508 company reviews on Glassdoor which indicates that most employees have an excellent working experience there. The Smithsonian employee rating is in line with the average (within 1 standard deviation) for employers within the Nonprofit & NGO industry (3.7 stars).

      Reviews by job title

      508 reviews
      5.0
      Jul 10, 2014

      This is a wonderful work environment, in the world's largest museum and research center.

      Research administration
      Recommend
      CEO approval
      Business Outlook

      Pros

      So many smart people, so many fascinating projects. There is a wide diversity of activities, cultural and scientific, from the exhibits and education programs seen by the public to the research in the labs. Its just like "Bones".

      Cons

      More than half the budget is federal appropriation, so when congress shuts down, so do we. Units can be rather insular, difficult sometimes to cross boundaries.

      3.0
      May 27, 2014

      Great freedom but not great pay

      Museum specialist
      Recommend
      CEO approval
      Business Outlook

      Pros

      I love the freedom I have at my job, my office has a great view and I get to learn interesting things and interact with people all over the globe. An academic atmosphere where no one is in any hurry.

      Cons

      The institution is chronically understaffed and a good portion of the staff are totally unproductive. Not the place for an ambitious career minded individual. Giving 110% will not be rewarded and you will just shoulder the burden of those retiring and those that will not pull their own weight. Considering the education and experience expected to gain employment you could easily make TWICE as much at another agency.

      Viewing 460 - 462 of 508 Reviews
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      ReviewsSmithsonian reviews

      Glassdoor has 797 Smithsonian reviews submitted anonymously by Smithsonian employees. Read employee reviews and ratings on Glassdoor to decide if Smithsonian is right for you.