Moving from One BigTech to Another as a Senior Engineer
Posted by gokstudio@reddit | ExperiencedDevs | View on Reddit | 11 comments
Hi folks, I have 7 years experience working in the ML field. I am transitioning from one Big Tech to another as a Senior ML Engineer. I am a bit concerned as the cultures are very different and so are the expectations.
For folks who've done such a similar transition, what strategies and methods did you adopt to make sure you hit the ground running? I did have a conversation around expectations with my new manager during the interview process and it seems to be the usual: lead projects, contribute in a way that lifts the entire team, and mentor juniors. I do intend to speak with him in detail on the first day in the new role but would love to hear from the community as well.
Thanks!
Soggy_Grapefruit9418@reddit
One thing that helps a lot is realizing that seniority resets a bit when you change companies Even if your technical level is strong, the first few months are mostly about learning the organization, decision-making style, political landscape, and how influence actually works there.
Bhanu5909@reddit
Few things that have worked for me - do/say ratio — do more say less till people start asking you to say more - don’t say “in my prior role”. Irritates a lot of folks. - listen to your team, take notes , share back your take away and any observations - actively acknowledge technical/technology aspects that do work well - any observations on improving- start discussing in some private conversations with right folks - recognize talent early and often - gain trust rather than expecting them to listen to you
Good luck!!
gokstudio@reddit (OP)
I agree. The team that I am moving into is fast-paced and expects people to contribute quickly. Are there specific strategies for how to actually do the things you described effectively?
Fine_Claim_6627@reddit
Isn't the case across the industry for a senior engineer?
roger_ducky@reddit
Main mistake people make is assuming they need to learn everything to “hit the ground running.”
Prioritize learning just enough to do what’s necessary for the task at hand, as well as the official/unofficial processes first.
Rest can be done when they’re surprised you actually got through your task more or less competently.
Distinct_Bad_6276@reddit
Have done similar transitions. Be humble and assume you know nothing for the first 90 days, work on building relationships and knowing who’s who. Like the other commenter said, seniority “resets” in some ways when you change orgs. Leverage your onboarding partner to form relationships with other teams.
Material_Policy6327@reddit
Let me guess going to Amazon?
gokstudio@reddit (OP)
Luckily, nope :)
dagamer34@reddit
Speak names of companies, generic advice will give you generic results.
gokstudio@reddit (OP)
I am a bit concerned about getting doxxed, tbh. The specific ML area I work in is quite niche and people know each other well.
cell-on-a-plane@reddit
Just try to fit in? Don’t bring your old baggage over