I’m currently at a mid tier hardware company in Chicago making TC $150k(probably 230k if adjusted for Bay Area COL). The work is interesting, I barely work 15 hours a week and love the wlb. I spend time with friends/family, travel, cooking and doing other creative things. I have an offer from Apple for Sr. Systems Engineer in the iPhone team, TC: 290k in Cupertino. Not sure if I should take it since I expect to work ~60hrs a week at apple and will have to give up a lot of my hobbies. But also kinda guilty for not chasing the money and Apple prestige. Thoughts?? [Update] I’m just entering my late 20s, single, currently renting a condo with a sick view, but looking to buy an investment property soon. Not planning to have kids in the next 5 years.
Interesting and barely work 15 hours a week don’t make sense in the same sentence imo
Just because it’s interesting doesn’t mean you should be spending all your time on it. We release some cool products, I have fun designing them and I’m efficient in getting my work done.
There’s a massive gap in between “spending all your time” and 15 hours a week. Eh, not worth arguing over though. Good for you
What are your hobbies?
Are you ready to relocate from Midwest to west coast? Do you own a house in Midwest? Do you want to rent or own a house in the Bay Area? What kind of RSU are you getting and your ICT level? These should also be part of your decision making process. Oh, and not everyone works 60 hrs a week at Apple; it’s very much team dependent.
I’m considering an apple offer but I’ve heard the HW teams have bad wlb. Do you have any insight into Cupertino optics and displays teams?
I haven’t heard anyone complaining. Personally, I think the very concept of WLB is overrated, and there is a lot of noise what people say from outside the company,
Do you have children, are you married? I know wlb is important but if you get used to working 15 hrs a week and don't you are wasting your talent. You can do much more, no?
was gonna say and don't push your career while you are young and energetic
I’ve been debating this and questioning the purpose of life. I think my main goal is to do things that make me happy, but also looking for opportunities to positively contribute to society through engineering. Idk if I’d consider most engineering work we do at big tech to be positive(including my work). It’s work, a means to an end for now. But on the lookout if any interesting opportunities pop up
No WLB at Apple. People at Apple and in the Bay have no chill. Everyone just talks about work and traffic. Just enjoy that easy midwest life man.
Exactly this! Super competetive here in the Bay Area. You will definitely find a way better paid job after a year or so. Apple is generous with relocation package.
150k Chicago is more like 350k Bay area. Depends on what stage in life u are and if ur looking for an adventure. Can't be about money because u will be poor and will work weekends
Not true. Don't inflate the cost of living that much.
May I ask if your work is related to optics? I’m myself optical engineer and looking for some guidance. Thanks
I don't think there is a straight formula to convert your pay in the Midwest to the bay area. But I don't think 150 is equivalent to 230, not even 290. I was in Columbus Ohio and with 150k over there you can comfortably afford a house + family expenses. No way you can do the same here with 290. Not to mention the workload. I would definitely stay, especially if you are married with kids or planning anytime soon.
I updated the post with some more Information age, relationship status, etc.
OP, what was the interview process like for sr systems engineer?
The usual split, recruiter screen, hiring manager phone interview, virtual onsite with 5 interviews