FDE offer vs a FAANG offer

Comparing an FDE offer with a big-tech offer is not only about pay. Compare four things.

1. Total compensation, like for like

Put base, bonus and equity on the same basis. Equity in a startup and in a listed company carry very different risk.

2. What you will learn

Big tech teaches depth in one system at scale. FDE work teaches breadth: many stacks, customers and domains. Decide which compounds better for your next role.

3. How you will work

Ask about travel, on-site time and how many customers you will carry at once.

4. Where it leads

FDE experience transfers well to product, architecture and founding. Big-tech experience is a strong signal for other big-tech roles.

Salary bands by experience and city are on the salary page once enough postings list pay.