To all those wishing to be or are trying to be I honestly wish you the best of luck. This is 30+ years talking to you so take it as you find it. Get a bullet proof folder and keep a copy of every document, every check report, every assessment, every peice of nonsenical crap they give you....one day you will need it. It is a fantastic job however please remember you are a number and nothing else. Genuinely most Alm's + care but not everyone, so take care and I genuinely wish you well.
For the sceptics, you don't last 30+ years if you are not smart or good at what you do. The pay is OK but the reward is people want to talk about you and talk about your job. Yes the 'stress' question is perennial but so is the delight in telling them so is every job if you don't know what you are doing.
If you are rated people tell you in writing you are good. That is reward enough.