Data Engineering at Facebook
Is it worth considering Data Engineer positions at Facebook - both career growth and compensation wise?
Suppose, if I have two options - stay in current job as SE or switch to DE at Facebook. What should one consider?
Where does ur interest lie?
I am interested in exploring Data Science and ML. But I am not sure Data Engineers primarily do that (I may be wrong). What I have understood is that their roles are more surrounded towards SQL and ETL. Please correct me if I am wrong.
At FB, DE is just pipelines and SQL. Also, on average, much lower talent density than DS, which has lower talent density than SWE.
Could you clarify the term talent density? Do you mean skilled people, required skill level for the job, or available positions?
Generally, a solid SWE can do most DS and DE work, and a solid DS can do most DE work. The other direction is uncommon. Separately, based on my narrow notion of quant/logical problem solving skills, SWE > DS> DE at FB.
Stick to SWE. Facebook DE do not do ML usually. Do not change your role for the company, it will affect your relevant experience in resume and once you are a DE in Facebook, every company will try to offer you DE. It will be hard to get back to SWE. I have personal experience
Thanks a lot for the insight! I am also getting the same feeling!
So building data pipeline is a bad project? Lots of SWE do that too.
I’ll bet you a Coke people who say this also refer to infra as computer janitors.
SWE at FB do this, but this is only a small part of their jobs.
How about work life balance for Data Engineers in FB ? I am planning to give interviews in few weeks. Is the pay significantly less than SWE ?
This question will always depend on your available opportunities.