Ventajas
I don't know how this stacks up with other Semiconductor companies, but I think this workplace is best for individuals who like to explore and grow in their chosen technical areas, it appears to be highly encouraged. However pursuing some technical areas of interest might (I believe this applies to any employer) might require working past regular hours, because my plate is normally full with regular work tasks (I guess thats why its called work!). One of the upsides about work is Flextime, this means I can say take my kid to the dentist during regular work hours, and make up for the hours spent at the dentist at work later (maybe stay back at work to conclude my tasks etc). Also, it is possible to work remotely (via VPN) if the task I am working on does not require my physical presence in the office.
Desventajas
I have watched some really bright individuals who have spent much longer time in the company than myself, it seems to me that individuals who choose a purely technical path, dont seem to be "important", yes they are respected but the dont appear to be the bosses. Sometimes I wonder how their compensation stacks up with some individuals who get a job with the sole aim of becoming a boss, and little or no interest in technical areas, which I think is the core of what we do. Thats one of the reasons I am checking out this site. Also note that the employee perception of the company varies from group to group in the same City, and from city to city!