Coming in at SWE L5 at Google with 15+ years of experience
I was told I didn’t meet the L6 bar but I could come in at L5. I feel I’m being down leveled especially considering the relevant experience I have. Current TC- 370k. Offer TC- 410k. Thoughts? They will not budge on level. Is it worth taking this role anyway? How difficult would it be to get to L6 these days considering CFO’s cost cutting behaviors.
I was in the same boat 6 months ago except my TC was 250K so it was an easier choice. Got stuck with a mundane frontend work on a project which is not going anywhere (no impact, no complexity) with 8 other L5s on the team. None got promoted in the last round. I think I will retire before I get promoted here.
Related question, does it matter for Google what level you are in your current company for them to decide your level or is it all based on your YeO and interview performance?
5->6 is hard at G, forget about that for realistically another 5 years at least.
This is true. Even if you move mountains, it will take at least 2-3 years.
Wow. That’s harsh. I know it’s not guaranteed by any means but the people who swear by the process make it seem like it’s more meritocratic and you can nominate yourself all the time if you wish
Well, at least they are paying, most posts about G these days are about down-leveling and underpaying. Worst case you can bail in 2-3 yrs if u see it going nowhere, right?
They weren’t going to give me that much. Had to negotiate hard and use offers from other companies.
The initial offer was literally less than I make now.
L5 to L6 is quite difficult - don't join hoping that you will promo in 2 years. Of course, it can happen, but you need luck + support + commitment + ability.
I know someone who joined at L5 with 20+ years and ended up getting NI in second perf cycle. I also know 10 year exp joining at L5 and getting to L8 in 7-8 years.
What’s NI
Probably Needs Improvement
It’s all about the team and projects. People in ads for example have an easier path because they are the bread and butter of the company and it’s easy to show impact. New grad to L6 in 6 years is not uncommon in ads.. You have to be really good and lucky, but it’s not uncommon.
Are you at google currently?
Does anyone at Google on this thread have anything positive to say about this situation? None of the messages so far are convincing me it’s a good move, heh.
Ok. Well then.
Don't do it. 15+ yrs should be either L6 or not at Google. You'll find 6yr experience at L6
Are there high growth opportunities that would make L6 easier to obtain? I’d be joining Android.
Depends upon your specific team and if your skills are somewhat unique and needed in Android at the moment. If you are just a generalist, the answer is no.