Have noticed in response from Amz folks here on Blind that an Applied Scientist (AS) can be paid as much as 20%+ more than a SW Development Engr (SDE) who is at the same level. This also appears to be true for Applied Science and SW Development Managers (ASMs and SDMs) - e.g. see: https://www.teamblind.com/post/Amazon-manager-applied-science-compensation-3gmSZWiL. Since levels.xyz only shows data for SDE/SDM, but nothing specifically for AS/ASM, it's hard to confirm this. Amazonians, is this true? What is the best explanation for this difference? Any data points to share? Do Applied Scientists and ASMs really bring >20% more value than their equivalent-level SDE/SDM colleagues? TC: 310 #amazon #appliedscience #tech #compensation
I would like to think so since my TC at L5 AS 2 is significantly more than that of any SDE roles at the same level that I have seen here, and in fact it is closer to or slightly more than median SDE3. I didn't have any counter offers but my interview was almost like my personal best. A lot of luck I would say.
You’re now at AMZ?
Yup
Easier to find an replace SDEs.
I think it's the case for Amazon and MS but not for G/Fb/Apple.
It's true. Reason being higher entry bar for AS in terms of education. Even AS1 requires Masters or PhD
Okay, I get the higher ‘entry requirements’. What I am still missing, from a tangible business perspective, is how does an Applied Scientist add more value than an SDE, especially at higher levels?
It is the wrong question. It’s not about value added. It’s about market rate.
Supply and demand. Supply for SDEs is higher than AS. Will change in couple of years.
By definition, AS = DS + SDE. An AS needs to be a scientist and an engineer.
People dont get paid by the value they created. Its based on market supply and demand
Good point👍
I would hope so, at least they’re perceived to be much smarter than SDEs.