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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 category

      4.3

      Diversity & inclusion

      4.1

      Work/Life balance

      4.0

      Culture & values

      3.7

      Compensation and benefits

      3.4

      Senior management

      3.4

      Career opportunities

      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).

      Ratings by demographic groups

      Reviews by job title

      508 reviews
      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.

      4.0
      Feb 19, 2010

      A fabulous institution with great work culture, impeded by bureaucracy and inefficient management

      Development - administrative
      Recommend
      CEO approval
      Business Outlook

      Pros

      It's easy to get behind the Smithsonian's mission and a source of pride for employees. I met many very talented and intelligent people who were eager to contribute. From day one you'll have many experienced professionals with extensive contacts asking: "What do you want to do?" Professional growth is highly encouraged and everyone is remarkably helpful and full of advice. Demonstrate your dedication as an intern, temp or volunteer and you'll advance quickly (seriously, I met people at all levels who started at the bottom - including Directors). Salary and benefits are above average to great. There's lots of encouragement to attend Smithsonian events, or even check out new exhibits over lunch. Working in a castle doesn't hurt.

      Cons

      Demanding management diminishes retention rates. Directors don't receive enough admin support, and current admin policies are inefficient. Lots of paperwork, confusing and outdated data systems and organizational structures. Government culture weakens customer service, which is essential in development. Most employees punch out at 5 on the dot, even if the job isn't done (and hard work/overtime, while recognized, is rarely compensated). The lack of inter- and intra-department communication creates extra work. While people are eager to help you advance, no one seems to expect entry-level employees to actually stay in that office; don't expect to be "groomed." Upper management keeps its aims close to the vest, and even Directors feel like they're in the dark.

      Viewing 19 - 21 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.