Pros
Most staff care a great deal about working hard and being good at their jobs, defying the stereotype of the government clock watcher. My position on the org chart is in IT, but projects involve contact with multiple offices, which makes the project teams varied and interesting. Management in IT is fantastic by any standard, government or not: Expectations are up front and clear, management is good at listening to employee expertise for solving problems, and the environment is professional but approachable. IT is very good about employee development, allocating budget each year for training or conferences to help employees continue learning (a must in any tech-related job). This also feeds into long-term retention and growth opportunities. Dress code is business casual with jeans on Friday, which could be a pro or con depending on where people are coming from. Location in downtown Columbia is great for lunch options and being able to walk on breaks. Compensation is fair, benefits (retirement, medical, sick leave) are some of the best you'll find anywhere. Leave accrual is on par but not great.
Cons
Environment is more regimented than one might find in the private sector. This can be both a benefit and a con -- workers generally get a full hour for lunch each day, and most days will end promptly at 5p. But, you'll also be there until 5p even if the work is done for that day. "Big ships turn slow" can apply to the pace of projects. While government can attract service-minded individuals, elections can also disrupt or distract from long-term projects and may attract some egos.