What do you do that you earn six figures?

r/financialindependence • u/fidgit86 • Aug 13 '21

It seems like a lot of people make a lot of money and it seems like I’m missing out on something. So those of you that do, whats your occupation that pays so well?

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u/DarkKerrigor Aug 13 '21

Honestly, a developer shouldn't be promoted into management. A good developer does not a good manager make. The only good software dev managers I've had are ones that were hired into the role; they had the background in development, but were selected because they were a good fit, not because they were due a promotion.

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u/GoyfAscetic Aug 13 '21

That's why companies worth their salt have a technical promotion track separate from the management promotional track so you don't need to be a manager to get promoted

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u/Neofreeocon Aug 13 '21

Larger tech companies typically have a technical ladder. I work at one and am currently an architect, which is the technical equivalent to senior director I believe. Almost cleared 300k last year (with bonus) and have about 500k in RSUs.

I started at 38k back in 1999. Took me about 8 years to hit 100k but that was my fault for staying at a small non-tech company who saw IT as a cost of doing business.

There is better pay at software companies but the bar for entry is typically high. I’ve personally interviewed about 30 people this year and rejected most. The ones that do pass muster though and even some that don’t already have 2-3 other offers in hand. The market is crazy right now.

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u/n8dev Aug 13 '21

What’s the cost of living like in your area?

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u/Neofreeocon 29d ago

I live in the Midwest. Not Chicago. I’m sure my peers on the west coast make more.

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u/n8dev 29d ago

Nice, sounds like you’re doing well. Good for you!

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u/Neofreeocon 29d ago

Thanks. It does come at a price. Long hours and on call rotations. But not complaining.