Pros
My department is very laid back, this isn't true of every group at NI, though. They are a fiscally conservative company, and by being so, they have never had mass layoffs. I appreciate the stable environment. Additionally, there are lots of smart, innovative, passionate people who work here. My manager makes it easy to balance work and the rest of my life. We are treated like adults and allowed to manage our time as we see fit as long as we meet deadlines.
Kontras
Fiscally conservative also means low salaries. The promotion policy is bizarre. They will promote you, but you don't get a corresponding salary increase until you've proven yourself in your new position. There are not a lot of opportunities for career growth in my area and I have felt stuck for quite some time.