Vantaggi
(1) Retirement benefits appear to be better than average. Though things may change in the future, we currently do not pay into what appears to be a very fair pension plan. (2) Depending on your position, the pay scale can be well above average. It certainly appears as such for the nursing staff. (3) Employee pool is very diverse. For someone interested in meeting people from a vast array of cultures, this is a good place to be. (4) Location. Public transportation is nearby, as well as a multitude of restaurants and shops. (5) Collegiality - when difficulty arises, you will always find someone who will help - it may not be many people, but there will be at least one.
Svantaggi
(1) Unions - unions appear to hold much power over the majority of the positions. I think that UCSF holds the short end of the stick during salary negotiations and I fear that it could lead to negative times. (2) Weak management - there are several depts that appear to be in complete disarray and it stems from poor management. Yes, there are some really good managers, but some departments like Labor Relations and Purchasing need major reorganization. (3) Rush, rush, rush. This may be the worst characteristic of UCSF. Folks seem to always be in a rush to get something done. ....failing to plan is planning to fail...