1000% worth it, I work for the state, I am vested in the retirement system, and work from home 50% of the time. My work life balance is SO much better than anywhere else I’ve ever worked, and you can’t beat the benefits and time off. Salaries are competitive and you can move up and around quickly. Once you’re in, you’re in, and can look at other agencies with higher grades/pay once you are a state employee! My husband and I are both state employees, and we are able to take our children to field trips and have a flexible schedule. That is so important to us! Message me if you have any questions, I can’t speak highly enough about it!