Pros
I've worked with IATSE since the summer of 2019. The opportunity was presented to me as there were many productions and the shortage of drivers created a need to get (almost) anyone behind the wheel. It was very exciting to be on set or part of a crew that either did Unit Moves or even being on set being a Utility driver. Pay is very good for what we did and being paid out a minimum is definitely a bonus if you're done quickly and home within 4-5 hours. Being recognized for working hard can be difficult at times but when you are, it's rewarding. SOME pretty amazing people to work with.
Cons
Very clique-ish. If you're new, you'll get yelled at, bullied and talked about behind your back. There is a distinct disadvantage. If you're not a follower, then you could be in trouble. Report the abuse and you will be blacklisted. Talk back or argue your point, you will be blacklisted. Make a mistake because no one told you different, blacklisted. Assignments can be few and far between during slow times as in Winter. Members are taking most of the assignments (as they should). If you think you can do this full time (as a permittee) and this your only source of income, you are fooling yourself. Squirrel away your money and your surplus might allow you to survive over the winter if you have nothing else. The pros about being recognized for hardwork is difficult. There are many permits who've been around for a long time and have the good relationships with Keys and they get called back. You truly have to stand out from the rest WITH witnesses. If you are one with quiet confidence, you may be left out in the cold. Difficult Keys are the norm. Being yelled at, bullied, and treated like dirt are the norm when you're new. You've probably applied, got in quickly with no orientation and you show up for an assignment scratching your head and hoping someone will see you're new and take you under their wing; but don't hold your breath. No orientation before being put on assignment. This creates issues with crews and speed and accuracy of work to be created. It puts undue pressure on seasoned members/permits to carry the load and or perform the training on the fly.